In many ski resorts, you will find that the real fun begins once the sun goes down. Instead of slinking off for an early night, these resorts have plenty of great activities and a buzzing après scene – perfect for those that like to burn the candle at both ends!
Kitzbühel is a legendary sports city in Tyrol, Austria, which boasts plenty of amazing options after dark (as well as superb skiing during the day). This is all within epic surroundings, making these activities under the stars electric and unforgettable.
“Kitzbühel by night” by Lucky Juice licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
For a change of pace, be sure to make a trip to the captivating city of Innsbruck and sample its culinary delights. Read this article for all you need to know!
Sound good? Here are a few of the best night-time sports activities to check out during your stay at Kitzbühel.
Night Skiing
If you do not feel ready to call it a day once the sun goes down then be sure to give night skiing a go. This is a very different and unique experience, where you shred through the pristine powder which glimmers under the floodlights and stars above. This is all within incredible natural surroundings, which creates a magical atmosphere at night.
The cabins at Gaisberg are open so that you can pop in for food and drink after the incredible experience and exchange stories. This activity is only available on Thursday’s and Friday’s and the lift operates between 18:30 and 21:30, with the floodlights switched off 23:00.
Moonlight Skiing
Night skiing enables you to continue shredding the pistes at Gaisberg, but this astonishing experience allows you to go off piste and explore the sublime scenery of the Kitzbühel Mountains. Seeing as you are going off the beaten path, it is absolutely vital that you use a mountain guide from the Kitzbühel ski school.
Floodlit Cross Country
Under the guidance of local professionals, you have the opportunity to traverse the floodlit Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith Sports Trails. One trail is 1.1km and best suited to beginners, but for the more adventurous and advanced cross-country skiers, there is a challenging and epic 4.2km trail. The latter is an unforgettable experience that is sure to be one of the highlights of your holiday.
“Night Ski-Tracks in Sodium Light” by m.prinke licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Moonshine Snow Shoe Walking
If you’ve had enough of skiing for the day but are still seeking adventure, moonshine snow shoe walking is a great change of pace and magical activity. You can explore Kitzbühel and its charming surrounding villages under the glow of the moon and armed with a torch. A guide can take you through the well-maintained trails and paths, which are particularly beautiful during the winter (this is a great romantic activity, but can also be good fun with a group of mates).
Ice Skating
Whilst it is true that you can ice skate in many places, it is particularly special by moonlight on the stunning Schwarzsee Kitzbühel Lake. The idyllic lake is the perfect setting for fun and exercise in natural surroundings when frozen over and can be enjoyed both in the day and under the stars. The ice thickness is thoroughly examined at regular intervals for complete safety.
If skating on a frozen lake seems too risky for you or the weather does not permit it, you can still enjoy ice skating in the fully-equipped sports centre. The large and well-maintained indoor rink is open in the evenings and music is blasted out to create a fun and lively atmosphere. The sports centre also offers curling, ice hockey and alpine curling, as well as climbing and tennis during the summer.
Sledging
Sledging is another exhilarating snow-based activity which you can try once the sun goes down (or during the day). The run is found at Gaisberg in Kirchberg and it is illuminated by floodlights at night, which adds to the thrill of hurtling along the run at blistering speeds. A 4-seater chairlift allows you to easily make as many runs as you wish, and you could then stop off for some well-deserved food and drinks in the mountain huts where you can compare stories with the night skiers.
Curling
Curling may not sound like the most thrilling winter activity, but it is actually great fun and it is impossible to not get caught up in the excitement. It is sure to get competitive, but a big part of the attraction of curling is the social aspect and the coming together of a community. Typically, there are fun social gatherings that take place once the games end. You could try your hand at curling at the Mercedes-Benz Sportpark Kitzbühel, in the hall in Aurach and the undercover hall in Jochberg.
How to Get to Kitzbühel
Found in the centre of the Tyrolean Alps in Western Austria, you have three options for reaching Kitzbühel. Salzburg (SZG) is the nearest and will take around an hour to reach by road, with both British Airways and Ryan Air flying here four times a week from London. Innsbruck (INN) is slightly further and will take just over an hour, but there are more regular flights made here from airports all over the UK. Alternatively, Munich (MUC) has many direct flights and is about a 2-hour drive from the resort.
After arriving at any of these airports, a pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer will be the quickest, easiest and most comfortable way to reach Kitzbühel. They can also transport your ski equipment for no additional charge.
Where to Stay:
Hof Hamoos – This affordable self-catered apartment is a great place for friends. There is plenty of space for socialising (including a garden), there are lovely views of the mountains, a fully-equipped kitchenette and a nearby supermarket where you can stock up on supplies. It also has easy access to the slopes and the nearest restaurant is 550 yards from the apartment. Wi-Fi is free and available in all areas.
Apartments Foidl – Every studio and apartment here is bright, modern and spacious and comes with a fully-equipped kitchenette and balcony. The shared facilities include a garden, sauna, ping-pong table and table football, so there is plenty to keep you entertained. It is half a mile from the Fleckalmbahn Cable Car and there is a free ski bus 50 yards from the apartments. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Jack’s Lake & Mountain Hostel – A fun and social place just 5-minutes from the epic Lake Schwarzsee, this affordable hostel has rooms with mountain views, a TV lounge and games room. There is also a terrace, garden and shared kitchen, so there are plenty of areas to chill out with friends and other guests. Wi-Fi is free in the TV lounge and other social spaces.
About Shuttle Direct:
Shuttle Direct is Europe’s most trusted airport transfer company, providing an affordable, friendly and efficient service between airports, hotels, train stations and cruise terminals. They are experts in winter ski transfers and provide a comprehensive service throughout the Alps.
Their easy-to-use booking system allows you to arrange your onwards journey well in advance, so your driver will be waiting and have enough room to take your ski equipment for no additional charge.
