Ski – EU Lands

March 16, 2024March 20, 2024

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Visiting Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” is a breathtaking experience. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

Getting There

Train: Take a scenic train ride from Interlaken, which takes about 1h40 to 2h10. You can travel via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen/Wengen.
Cable Car: Alternatively, you can take a cable car from Grindelwald.

What to See and Do

Viewing Platform: Enjoy panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
Ice Sculptures: Explore a glacier cave filled with ice sculptures.
Hiking: Hike out to Mönchsjochhütte for an unforgettable alpine experience.

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early January to late February and mid-May to late October.
Avoiding Crowds: Board the first train or cable car in the morning or travel outside the high season (June to August).
Rail Passes: Consider purchasing a rail pass to reduce costs.

Costs

Tickets: Prices vary depending on the season and the type of pass you have. For example, a return ticket from Interlaken Ost-Jungfraujoch with a Swiss Travel Pass can cost CHF 125.

Remember, Jungfraujoch is an expensive excursion, but it offers a unique and memorable experience. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the high altitude. Enjoy your trip to the top of Europe!

March 15, 2024March 20, 2024

Lauterbrunnen

Getting There

Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque valley town in the heart of Switzerland, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

By Train

The Swiss village is well-connected to major cities in Switzerland, such as Zurich, Geneva, and Bern. The train journey to Lauterbrunnen is part of the experience in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. The village is served by the Wengernalpbahn Railway, a cog railway which is included in the Swiss Travel Pass.

By Plane

If you prefer to fly, the nearest international airport is in Zurich. From there, you can book a train ticket to Lauterbrunnen.

What to See

Lauterbrunnen is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled in a stunning valley surrounded by majestic mountains and waterfalls, this Swiss village offers a variety of activities and attractions for all seasons.

Kleine Scheidegg

Kleine Scheidegg, a mountain pass at an elevation of 2061 m, is situated below and between the Eiger and Lauberhorn peaks in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. It’s a popular spot for hiking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Staubbach Falls

Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, is a must-visit. The waterfall is especially stunning in the summer when the snow melts.

Events

Lauterbrunnen hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Some of the notable events include the Pool Race Wengen, Lauberhorn Run, and Swatch Nines.

Tickets and Passes

When it comes to skiing, Lauterbrunnen is part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, and tickets can be purchased either via the Ski amadé ticket shop or directly at the ticket office in the ski area. Prices vary depending on the season and online depending on the time of purchase.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, a summer adventurer, or a culture and cuisine lover, Lauterbrunnen has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this Swiss gem!

February 2, 2024March 20, 2024

Saint Ulrich Ortisei

Saint Ulrich Ortisei (Ortisei in Italian, Urtijëi in Ladin) is the largest and most lively village in Val Gardena, a valley in the South Tyrol region of Italy. Surrounded by scenic mountains and meadows, Ortisei is a popular destination for both summer and winter holidays. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxing moments, Ortisei has something for everyone. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the best things to do, see, and eat in Ortisei, as well as some practical tips on how to get there and where to stay.

How to Get to Ortisei

Ortisei is easily accessible by public transportation or by car. The nearest airport is Bolzano, which is about 40 km away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Ortisei. Alternatively, you can fly to Innsbruck in Austria, which is about 120 km away, or Verona in Italy, which is about 190 km away. From these airports, you can take a train or a bus to Bressanone or Ponte Gardena, and then change to a local bus to Ortisei. You can also rent a car and drive to Ortisei, but be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in the village. If you are staying in a hotel or an apartment that is a member of the Tourist Association, you will receive a free bus pass that allows you to use the public transportation in the valley and beyond.

Where to Stay in Ortisei

Ortisei offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly B&Bs and apartments, to mid-range hotels and chalets, to luxury resorts and spas. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose a place that suits your needs and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ortisei:

B&B Lavi Ortisei val Gardena: This cozy and family-run B&B is located in a quiet area, about 10 minutes walk from the center of Ortisei. It offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and mountain views. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast with homemade cakes and jams, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.
Garni Hotel Mirabel: This charming and elegant hotel is situated in a panoramic position, overlooking the village and the mountains. It features spacious and modern rooms with balconies, satellite TV, and minibars. You can relax in the wellness area, which includes a sauna, a steam bath, and a hot tub. You can also enjoy a rich breakfast buffet, a bar, and a garden.
Casa al Sole: This stylish and cozy apartment is located in the heart of Ortisei, close to the shops, restaurants, and cable cars. It can accommodate up to 4 people, and it has a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with a sofa bed, a bedroom with a double bed, and a bathroom with a shower. You can also enjoy a balcony with a view, free Wi-Fi, and a ski storage room.
Chalet Hotel Hartmann: This traditional and romantic hotel is located in a quiet and sunny spot, about 15 minutes walk from the center of Ortisei. It offers cozy and rustic rooms with wooden furniture, balconies, and mountain views. You can enjoy a hearty breakfast with local products, a lounge with a fireplace, and a garden with a sun terrace. You can also use the wellness facilities of the nearby Hotel Adler, which include a pool, a sauna, and a spa.
Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof: This luxurious and elegant hotel is located in the center of Ortisei, close to the shops, restaurants, and cable cars. It offers spacious and sophisticated rooms with balconies, satellite TV, and minibars. You can enjoy a gourmet restaurant, a bar, and a wine cellar. You can also indulge in the wellness area, which includes a pool, a sauna, a steam bath, a gym, and a beauty center.
La Cort My Dollhouse – Adults Only: This unique and exclusive hotel is located in a secluded and peaceful location, about 20 minutes drive from Ortisei. It offers only 4 rooms, each with a different theme and style, such as the Alpine Room, the Romantic Room, the Oriental Room, and the African Room. You can enjoy a private balcony, a fireplace, a jacuzzi, and a sauna. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast with organic and homemade products, a lounge with a library, and a garden with a pond.

What to Do and See in Ortisei

Ortisei is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the stunning landscapes of the Dolomites, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by hiking, biking, skiing, or snowshoeing. You can also discover the rich culture and history of the valley, which is home to the Ladin people, a distinct ethnic group with their own language and traditions. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Ortisei:

Take a cable car to the Alpe di Siusi Plateau: The Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm in German) is the largest high-altitude meadow in Europe, and one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites. You can take a cable car from Ortisei to reach the plateau, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, such as the Sassolungo (Langkofel), the Sassopiatto (Plattkofel), and the Sciliar (Schlern). You can enjoy hiking, biking, or skiing on the plateau, depending on the season. You can also visit some of the charming villages and huts on the plateau, such as Compaccio (Compatsch), Saltria (Saltria), and Zallinger (Zallinger).
Hike to the Seceda Ridgeline: The Seceda Ridgeline is one of the most iconic and dramatic sights in the Dolomites, with its jagged peaks and sheer cliffs. You can hike to the ridgeline from Ortisei, by taking a cable car to Furnes (Furnes), and then another cable car to Seceda (Seceda). From there, you can follow a well-marked trail that leads you along the ridgeline, offering stunning views of the Val Gardena, the Alpe di Siusi, and the Odle Group (Geislergruppe). The hike is about 10 km long, and takes about 4 hours. You can also extend your hike by descending to the picturesque village of Santa Magdalena (St. Magdalena), or by taking a detour to the Puez-Odle Nature Park (Naturpark Puez-Geisler).
Visit the Resciesa Plateau: The Resciesa (Raschötz) Plateau is another scenic spot in the Dolomites, which offers panoramic views of the Val Gardena, the Alpe di Siusi, and the Sella Group (Sellagruppe). You can visit the plateau from Ortisei, by taking a funicular from the center of the village. The funicular takes you to the Resciesa Hut (Raschötzhütte), where you can enjoy a snack or a drink. From there, you can hike to the Resciesa Cross (Raschötzkreuz), which is a wooden cross on a hilltop, or to the Brogles Hut (Brogleshütte), which is a cozy mountain hut. You can also rent a sled and slide down the funicular track, which is a fun and thrilling activity for all ages.
Shop for Woodcrafts in Ortisei: Ortisei is famous for its woodcarving tradition, which dates back to centuries. You can find many shops and workshops in the village, where you can admire and buy various woodcrafts, such as sculptures, figurines, toys, and nativity scenes. Some of the most renowned woodcarvers in Ortisei are the Dolfi family, the Demetz family, and the Senoner family. You can also visit the Museum Gherdëina (Museum Gröden), which displays a collection of woodcarvings, as well as exhibits on the geology, history, and culture of the valley. You can also see some of the larger sculptures around town, such as the Luis Trenker Monument, the Antonius Monument, and the Ladinia Monument.
Enjoy the Gastronomy of Ortisei: Ortisei is a great place to taste the delicious cuisine of the South Tyrol, which is a fusion of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin influences. You can find many restaurants, cafes, and bars in the village, where you can enjoy dishes such as speck (smoked ham), knödel (dumplings), schlutzkrapfen (ravioli), kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake), strudel (pastry), and apfelküchle (apple fritters). You can also try some

February 23, 2023March 20, 2024

Val Gardena

Val Gardena (Gröden in German, Gherdëina in Ladin) is a valley in South Tyrol, Italy, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Val Gardena is composed of three main villages: Ortisei (St. Ulrich), Santa Cristina (St. Christina), and Selva di Val Gardena (Wolkenstein). Each village has its own character and attractions, but they all share a common heritage and culture, influenced by the German, Italian, and Ladin languages and traditions. Val Gardena is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers countless opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Dolomites. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Val Gardena has something for everyone. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the most important things to know before you visit Val Gardena, how to get there, what to do and see, and where to eat and stay.

How to Get to Val Gardena

The easiest way to get to Val Gardena is by flying to Innsbruck in Austria, which is about 120 km away, or Verona in Italy, which is about 190 km away. From these airports, you can take a train or a bus to Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, and then change to a local bus to Val Gardena. You can also rent a car and drive to Val Gardena, but be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in the villages. If you are staying in a hotel or an apartment that is a member of the Tourist Association, you will receive a free bus pass that allows you to use the public transportation in the valley and beyond.

When to Visit Val Gardena

The best time to visit Val Gardena depends on what you want to do and see. Val Gardena is a year-round destination, but each season has its own charm and advantages.

Spring: Spring is a great time to visit Val Gardena if you want to enjoy the blooming of the flowers and the greenery of the meadows. The weather is mild and sunny, and the crowds are low. You can also find lower prices and special offers for accommodation and activities. However, not all the facilities and cable cars are open, and some of the higher trails may still be covered with snow.
Summer: Summer is the peak season for Val Gardena, as it attracts many visitors who want to hike, bike, or relax in the mountains. The weather is warm and pleasant, and most of the facilities and cable cars are open. You can also enjoy many events and festivals, such as the Val Gardena Folklore Festival, the Sellaronda Bike Day, and the Val Gardena Jazz Festival. However, you can also expect crowded places and higher prices.
Autumn: Autumn is another great time to visit Val Gardena, as it offers a colorful and scenic spectacle of the changing leaves. The weather is cool and crisp, and the crowds are moderate. You can also find lower prices and special offers for accommodation and activities. However, not all the facilities and cable cars are open, and some of the higher trails may be closed due to snow.
Winter: Winter is the most popular season for Val Gardena, as it is one of the best ski resorts in the Dolomites and in Europe. The weather is cold and snowy, and most of the facilities and cable cars are open. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or sledding on the slopes of the Val Gardena – Alpe di Siusi ski area, which is part of the Dolomiti Superski, the largest ski resort in the world. You can also enjoy the Christmas markets, the ice skating rink, and the winter events, such as the Val Gardena Ski World Cup, the Val Gardena Christmas Run, and the Val Gardena Ciaspola.

What to Do and See in Val Gardena

Val Gardena is a place where you can never get bored, as it offers a variety of activities and attractions for all tastes and ages. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Val Gardena:

Hike in the Dolomites: Val Gardena is a hiker’s paradise, as it offers countless trails for all levels and preferences. You can hike to the iconic peaks of the Dolomites, such as the Sassolungo (Langkofel), the Sella (Sellagruppe), and the Odle (Geislergruppe), or to the scenic plateaus and meadows, such as the Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), the Resciesa (Raschötz), and the Vallunga (Langental). You can also hike to the charming mountain huts and villages, such as the Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hütte), the Rifugio Puez (Puezhütte), and the Parthenonas (Partheneis).
Bike in the Dolomites: Val Gardena is also a biker’s paradise, as it offers many routes for mountain biking, road biking, or e-biking. You can bike around the Sella massif, a circular route of about 60 km that passes through four valleys and four passes, or around the Alpe di Siusi, a plateau of about 50 km that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You can also bike to the nearby valleys and villages, such as the Val di Funes (Villnösstal), the Val d’Ega (Eggental), and the Val di Fassa (Fassatal).
Ski in the Dolomites: Val Gardena is one of the most famous and prestigious ski resorts in the Dolomites and in Europe, as it offers more than 175 km of slopes for all levels and preferences. You can ski on the slopes of the Val Gardena – Alpe di Siusi ski area, which is part of the Dolomiti Superski, the largest ski resort in the world. You can also ski on the famous Sellaronda, a circular route of about 40 km that passes through four valleys and four passes around the Sella massif. You can also ski on the legendary Saslong, a World Cup slope that runs from the Ciampinoi to the village of Santa Cristina.
Explore the Culture and History of Val Gardena: Val Gardena is not only about nature and sports, but also about culture and history. You can explore the rich and diverse heritage of the valley, which is influenced by the German, Italian, and Ladin languages and traditions. You can visit the museums, such as the Museum Gherdëina (Museum Gröden), which displays a collection of woodcarvings, paintings, and fossils, or the Museum de Gherdëina (Museum Ladin), which showcases the history and culture of the Ladin people. You can also visit the churches, such as the Church of St. James (Kirche St. Jakob), which features a Gothic fresco of the legend of St. James, or the Church of St. Christina (Kirche St. Christina), which houses a Baroque altar and a Romanesque crypt. You can also visit the monuments, such as the Luis Trenker Monument, which honors the famous mountaineer and filmmaker, or the Antonius Monument, which commemorates the patron saint of animals.

January 23, 2014March 20, 2024

Flachau

Getting There

Flachau, a charming alpine city in the heart of Austria, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

By Car

If you’re driving, Flachau is conveniently located on the A10 Tauern motorway (exit 66). It’s a straightforward drive from Germany or Holland via Munich and Salzburg, or from Italy via Villach and Spittal¹.

By Train

The nearest express train station is in Radstadt, approximately 12 km from Flachau¹. There are direct train connections from Salzburg main station, and even from Munich main station². From Eastern Austria, there are also direct train connections from Vienna Hbf via St. Pölten, Linz, Liezen, to Radstadt at the weekend.

By Plane

If you prefer to fly, Salzburg Airport is your best bet. From there, you can book a train ticket to Radstadt.

Events

Flachau is a vibrant city with a variety of events throughout the year. Whether it’s the Audi FIS Ski World Cup, Flachau E-Bike Festival, Spring Battle, street festival, castle festival, traditional parades, concerts, or sporting events, there’s always something happening.

Tickets and Passes

When it comes to skiing, Flachau is part of the Snow Space Salzburg ski resort, and tickets can be purchased either via the Ski amadé ticket shop or directly at the ticket office in the ski area. Prices vary depending on the season and online depending on the time of purchase.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, a summer adventurer, or a culture and cuisine lover, Flachau has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this Austrian gem!