Snow & Soul: Body, Soul, and the Joy of Skiing

Wide turns and plenty of space—skiing in Osttirol

Alpine skiing has deep roots in Austria, yet Osttirol stands out: this snow-covered mountain kingdom preserves its traditions and is prized as an authentic vacation destination. No crowded slopes—instead, plenty of space and sunshine await all ski enthusiasts. In the “Bergtirol” ski resorts, tranquility and the pure joy of the snow on high, sunny terraces reign supreme—all at family-friendly prices.

With the “SkiHit Osttirol” multi-day ski pass valid for all seven resorts, the region aims to make the national sport accessible to all skiers. Children under six accompanied by their parents ski for free, and the children’s rate applies up to age 18.

Diversity Between the High Tauern and the Lienz Dolomites – Ski Touring Without Borders

The vast, high-altitude mountain landscapes of East Tyrol offer ski mountaineers the opportunity to ascend to the summits via pristine slopes and off the beaten path. The silence and tranquility during the ascent are a balm for the soul, creating space to slow down and find inner peace. The fascination with this meditative winter activity is growing in popularity, which in some places is even leading to conflicts. To ensure that ski touring does not come at the expense of the forest and wildlife but takes place in harmony with nature, Osttirol and the Hohe Tauern National Park—as the main initiators of the “Bergwelt Tirol miteinander erleben” program—are consciously focusing not on bans but on information, services, and regulatory measures.

In Harmony with Body and Soul—Cross-Country Skiing on Perfectly Groomed Trails

White peaks, snow-covered forests, vast plains, open spaces, and tranquility. Cross-country skiers who are consciously seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life are most often found exploring the trails of Osttirol. A total of seven areas offer more than 400 kilometers of trails to suit every taste and skill level. It is precisely the combination of an intense full-body workout and the proximity to 266 three-thousand-meter peaks that makes this Nordic sport in Osttirol a truly exceptional experience. Gliding energetically through the quiet landscape strengthens muscles, promotes mental relaxation, lets thoughts flow freely, and clears the mind.

The diverse trails in Osttirol and the top-notch infrastructure are suitable for both beginners and experienced cross-country skiers—whether they prefer the classic style or skate skiing. The quality and safety of the local trails have even been recognized with awards. Tip: Guests with a valid cross-country skiing pass or a guest card (which they receive after just one night’s stay) can use all ski buses for free. In addition, public transportation serves nearly all valleys at approximately hourly intervals.

Breathe in, breathe out, relax—Osttirol, a winter hiker's paradise

In the Osttirol region, winter hikers will find perfectly groomed trails far from the hustle and bustle. In the heart of the Alps, visitors can immerse themselves in an authentic world free from sensory overload and stress. Those who set out on foot through the snow can look forward to active relaxation filled with tranquility. Mindful travelers who are in harmony with nature feel the power of the mountains and draw on genuine life energy. The meditative tranquility here is disturbed only by the crunch of one’s own footsteps in the snow and the occasional calls of the forest’s inhabitants. It is here that a rarity in Austria was born: Kartitsch, the country’s first certified winter hiking village, located in the upper part of the Tyrolean Gailtal. Together with an extensive network of meticulously groomed and marked trails, Osttirol is a true winter hiking paradise.

Sports Highlights

Ice Climbing Festival: January 8–10, 2026

Fans of ice axes, helmets, and crampons will gather at the East Tyrolean Ice Climbing Festival, taking place at the ice park in Matrei from January 8–10, 2026. The three-day event, which has since become the largest of its kind in Europe, offers both beginners and professionals a varied program featuring workshops and lectures by well-known figures. At Eispark Osttirol, visitors have access to gear from a wide range of manufacturers. Free climbing and admission to the test center are free of charge; however, there is a fee for workshops, introductory lectures, and the competition.

Dolomitenlauf: January 16–18, 2026

The international Dolomitenlauf, held from January 16 to 18, 2026, boasts a 56-year racing tradition and attracts more than 2,000 cross-country skiers from around the world each year. Under the motto “Everyone is a winner over themselves,” Olympians, world champions, professionals, and amateurs alike take on the athletic challenge on 20- or 42-kilometer courses, in both freestyle and classic styles. This legendary winter sporting event takes place at the cross-country skiing and biathlon center in the romantic mountain village of Obertilliach in the Tyrolean Lesachtal, at an elevation of 1,450 meters above sea level. The entry fee for early registration is €86; on-site registration is available until the start of the race.

Austria Ski Touring Festival: January 22–25, 2026

Expert lectures, safety camps focusing on avalanches and snow conditions, lively discussions, film screenings, workshops, and guided tours—at the Austria Skitourenfestival in the Villgratental Valley in Osttirol, everything revolves around ski mountaineering. The sporting experience is guaranteed: every day, after thorough safety training, participants set out with local mountain guides on some of the most beautiful tours, offering views of the Grossglockner, Grossvenediger, and other Alpine giants. A varied evening program featuring discussions, expert lectures, and film screenings rounds out a day full of mountain adventures.

Kartitscher Winter Hiking Days: January 29 – February 1, 2026

Those who set out along groomed trails through the snow-covered landscape will experience active relaxation and a sense of calm. Attuned hikers feel the power of the mountains and draw true vitality from them. Gentle activity in a land of 266 three-thousand-meter peaks is a blessing not only for the body but also for mental well-being. The Kartitscher Winter Hiking Days offer a great opportunity to try this eco-friendly activity, featuring guided hikes led by certified mountain guides and fascinating stories about the local nature, people, and diverse culture of the Osttirol region. The participant package (3 nights, guided hikes including shuttle service and a winter picnic) starts at 204 € per person.