BADGASTEIN DESTINATIONS

Slop Life The resort of Badgastein is located 840 metres above sea level. It offers 200 kilometres of slopes in the Gastein valley and the highest peak reaches nearly 2700 metres. The skiing is suitable for all standards and you can enjoy some really pleasant long runs with plenty of challenges during the day. The more advanced skiers usually head off to Sportgastein and Graukogel as these resorts both offer excellent off-piste in the right conditions. Each of the resorts in the Gastein valley has their own beginner slopes, and Angertal can even boast a nursery. During the last few years more than €30 million has been spent on updating the lift system, the snow making machines and other facilities in the resort. The constantly updated lift systems and the variation of the blue and red slopes make Badgastein a very pleasant experience. If the slopes in the valley get overcrowded during the peak season it is a good idea to head towards Graukogel as it is usually more peaceful. However, it is also in Graukogel you will find the steeper and more challenging red runs. If the snow level is low you should head for Sportgastein. The altitude of the Sportgastein base is 1590 metres, and normally that area offers good skiing even when cover is thin elsewhere.

Unfortunately the 5 mountains are not connected by skiing but ski buses link all the areas together easily. Prices for ski pass starts at €64 for 1.5 day and 6 days cost €182 for adults in peak season. Children under 15 are half price. Badgastein have six different places where you can hire the latest equipment and get advice on what is right for you. The valley has several approved ski schools and teaches novices as well as experts. Youngsters can be entertained at the ski kindergarten which is an excellent place to try skiing for the first time. Lessons start from €60 for a 4 hour group lesson. For further information, visit www.gastein.com.
Swimming Pool Try out the soothing healing water in nice surroundings. The complex at Felsenbad contains various saunas plus in- and outdoor pools. Internet: www.felsenbad-gastein.com

Nikolaikirche An impressive 14th century church where the roof of the short nave is supported by only one pillar. The church contains some impressive images, but some of them are rather faint. Address: Poststraße am Baderberg

Boechstein Mining Museum An amazing journey through the history of mining. The past comes to life again in the historic open-air museum with its washhouse, stable, management building, manager’s house, store, Coloredo house and vicarage. At the heart of the open-air museum is the Salzstadl/salt room. Address: Boechstein Bundesstrasse 70
Phone: +43 (0) 6434 2298
Internet: www.boeckstein.at/montanmuseum.htm

Gasteiner Museum The museum houses an impressive collection of minerals and offers interesting information about mining and hunting. Exhibits related to local customs - such as traditional wooden masks - complete the wide selection of articles on show. Address: Kaiser Franz Josef straße 1