Places to Visit in Tyrol, Austria for a Magical White Christmas
Written on : 21 December 2020 By : Laura Wendy Harders López
For some people, the definition of a perfect Christmasy holiday is to spend it in a remote white alpine wonderland, gathered around a log fire while drinking hot chocolate. And for others, it's to get the chance of having fun in the snow and practice some thrilling outdoor sports. If this is you, chances are you'd love a getaway in Tyrol- the Austrian state straight from a fairytale-- making it an ideal location for those wishing to enjoy the Christmas festivities in a beautiful winter setting.
What's more, if you want to get lost in an all-encompassing peaceful alpine reverie, then visiting Tyrol's villages are a must! A holiday full of nature, ubiquitous snow, outdoor sports, light and magic await you.
So come and join us, and make your dream of a white Christmas, come true!
For those searching an enchanting white paradise filled with peace, and ample outdoor-sports amenities, Hochfilzen is the place for you. This alpine village boasts 635 cm of snow per year-- making it a number one spot to enjoy a white Christmas. On average, Hochfilzen has 140 snowy days per winter, offering jaw-dropping snow-covered landscapes of white mountains and pine trees. What's more, this quaint little village of 1131 inhabitants, not only is a peaceful location to rest and immerse in nature but also to experience exciting sports such as ski, snowboarding, hiking, sledging, cross-country skiing and even biathlon! Also, during your stay, don't forget to visit the lovely pilgrimage chapel of Maria Schnee, constructed in 1745 AD!
Galtür
Galtür is situated in the heart of the imposing Silvretta mountain range, the highest ski area in the Paznaum valley, at 1584 metres above sea level. This village enjoys an average of 169 days of snow per year. Since 1991, Galtür has always had snowy Christmases. For those who enjoy ski and snowboarding, this is a great place to practice them-- the resort is extensive, and enjoys various adventure trails where one can even walk through an enchanting pine forest. The area is also suitable for paragliding and hand gliding. No doubt, Gältur offers an exhilarating adventure to the most daring sport-enthusiasts.
The village is in the middle of an otherworldly landscape, and if you decide to do some exploring, you will not be disappointed with the Silvretta road, which welcomes one at every turn with an amazing scenic view. If you also want to be acquainted with Gältur's rich history, pay a visit to the beautiful baroque church in the centre of Galtür-- whose gothic style and fabulous rococo altar are famous in the area.
Alpbach
In the heart of Tyrol, halfway between Innsbruck and Kitzbühel, a small road separates from the A12 and goes into the Alpbachtal valley to reach in just 9 km a charming village that perfectly sums up the region. It is the classic place that upon leaving, you always think that it would be an ideal place to live without the burdens and pressures of the big city. In winter, it stands out for its excellent cross-country skiing tracks, in a unique snow-covered setting. Among the many sports one can practice here is snowshoe hiking, skiing excursions, ice-fishing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and tobogganing. Also, a must-visit is the Rattenberg Advent-- a medieval centre nestled between a 10th-century fortress on the hill and the river. One can take part in a romantic advent walk in the area, which usually takes place on Fridays at 4:00 pm.
Leutasch
Enjoy a traditional, rural way of life in the village of Leutasch, and experience Edenic tranquillity, all-encompassing snowy landscapes, at an altitude of 1136 metres above sea level. Its jaw-dropping mountain scenery and pristine nature will lull the visitor in a beautiful winter dream. With an alpine valley stretching over 16 km, one can behold the sight of 24 charming hamlets peppered throughout the area. Moreover, Leutasch is renowned as the gateway to Central Europe's largest cross-country skiing resort-- offering various multi-award-winning cross-country ski tracks for sports enthusiasts. What's more, this village is imbued in a peaceful Christmas spirit all year long, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of every day life.
St. Anton
St. Anton is among Tyrol's best options if you are looking for a white Christmas. Known to be the "birthplace of alpine skiing", St Anton is one of Austria's top places for heavy snowfall. Given its location on the eastern side of the Arlberg Mountains, the area boasts an average of more than 100 cm of snow per year. St Anton is often known as a global village-- due to being an international meeting place for ski-enthusiasts. Its vibrant international atmosphere during peak season, which merged with its breathtaking views and Christmas customs, create a distinctively delightful atmosphere.
Pertisau
If you want to feel completely enveloped in snow, nature and wonder, Pertisau offers marvellous views, that when snapped, will absolutely make your Instagram posts surge in likes.
This beautiful village boasts the picturesque Lake Achensee, around of which many Christmas events are held-- and where locals and visitors celebrate the Advent season in a contemplative and traditional way. You can also visit its gorgeous Christmas markets that offer local culinary flavours, smells, lights, and colours. Delicious scents such as cinnamon, gingerbread and punch tinge the air near the stunning Mount Advent at the Fischergut in Pertisau. The village also hosts many Christmas boat cruises-- where one can enjoy trying local delicacies, cookies, and mulled wine while enjoying the Christmas feeling, set against the marvellous views of the lake and snow-covered landscapes.
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