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With lush green valleys, jaw-dropping peaks, glacial lakes, and a wide variety of both summer and winter outdoor activities, the decision to rent a chalet in Tyrol is any easy one. The question as to which of this fabulous region’s towns and resorts to stay in is not necessarily so easy to answer.
Thankfully, we at Villanovo have provided you with a guide to the different areas where you can rent your chalet in Austria’s Tyrol region.
The obvious choice for many and with good reason: St Anton am Arlberg is both the cradle of modern skiing (thanks to the proliferation of the famous ‘Arlberg Technique’ of ski instruction) and home to some spectacular slopes. Every year, skiers and snowboarders from around the world make the journey to St Anton to make the most of its 300-plus kilometres of interconnected ski runs, offering everything from racing circuits to carving areas, not to mention some superb snow parks and toboggan runs - all set against a backdrop of some truly awe-inspiring scenery.
What’s more, with its chic nightlife and refined restaurants, it can be considered among the very best winter resorts in all of the Alps.
In the Summer the valley is awash with greenery, and hiking and biking trails are open for you to experience Tyrol’s great outdoors in all its crisp splendour. The area around Rendl even has a via ferrata route for the braver souls among you, while the Aerial Forest Park in the nearby Verwalltal Valley has something for the whole family to enjoy.
Located about 40 kilometres to the east of Innsbruck, the Zillertal Valley is extremely easy to reach from the airport.
Once there, you’ll no doubt be eager to hit the slopes at the Zillertal Arena - among the most snow-sure resorts in Tyrol, as well as being home to one of the longest valley runs in all of Austria. Again, the views are sumptuous, and the facilities top-notch. What’s more, the nearby Hintertux Glacier is the only ski resort in Austria that is open all year round.
Not only is the picturesque Zillertal Valley one of the top ski resorts in Austria, but it also boasts some of the best hiking opportunities in all of the region. The stunning vistas of the lake at the Schlegeisspeicher reservoir and the verdant surrounding slopes are not soon forgotten, while the fascinating agricultural traditions of the local farmers and other folk traditions celebrated at the fantastic GauderFest folk (beer) festival, and the family-favourite Arena Coaster toboggan run make it a destination for everyone.
Classy Lech is a favourite among the rich and famous. A quieter area away from the parties and events of Innsbruck and St Anton, Lech is the place to enjoy the serenity and quiet magnificence of the Tyrolean Alps. With the charming nature park in close proximity there are plenty of gorgeous walks and bike rides to go on, while the photographers among you will revel in the opportunities to capture subtle hues and gentle light of the forests, lakes and valleys that brim with rare wildflowers.
Due to the village’s relative isolation, it can be more challenging to reach in Winter, when particularly heavy snow will close the most straightforward route. There are other ways around, however, and once there, it is remarkably easy to reach the St Anton ski area and to take advantage of many of the excellent runs on offer.
If you’re looking for a quieter stay in the Austrian Alps, a place with class and privacy, but with access to the fine slopes of the nearby Arlberg ski area, then perhaps Lech is the place for you.
