The long MLK weekend marked our first ski trip for 2012. When skiing the Alps there are literally hundreds of ski areas to choose from. Large popular ski areas, smaller-sized ski areas geared for intermediate and beginner skiers, and of course, the ski areas known for the parties. I really don't feel you can go wrong with any area you choose. It is the Alps after all. Last year we unknowingly tried out the "large and party" ski area and had a great time. This year we decided try a smaller area in the Tyrol region. The ski area of Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is actually a combination of three different areas on the same mountain.
The snowfall this year in the Alps has been hit or miss. We were getting a bit nervous the week before the trip when there was very little new snow on the slopes. However, a few days before we left a massive storm rolled in and dumped nearly 2 feet of snow....perfect. The super cold temperatures helped maintain the snow by not letting it melt and freeze each day.
While most ski vacations in Europe involve taking a full week to enjoy the slopes, we decided to limit our time to 3 days. We learned last year that after 3 days of skiing the massive fun is quickly replaced by sore and tired legs. The weather this year was unbelievable: pure sun, no clouds, and no wind. You couldn't ask for better conditions!
With all the recent new snow the main runs were well-groomed....leaving the off piste prime for enjoying the powder.
Honestly, the Europeans have really figured out how to do skiing right. Get in a few runs and then pick out a nice bench (below) and take in the warm sun and enjoy unbelievable view. If I haven't said it before....I love skiing the Alps.
Our favorite eating spot: Wonnealm. A perfect deck with great views and hearty food. The perfect combination.
One of the lifts, Konigsleithebahn, offered heated seats, custom kids stop, and adjustable feet rests. All the fine features for a lift named after a king......
At the end of the day, sometimes you just need one last rest on a good bench that offers an amazing view....
The best part of skiing at Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis: the helpful sign at the bottom that lets you know you are finished.
What a great trip. Three days that each begin with a delicious breakfast followed by a fun-filled day skiing in the warm sun is a great vacation in my book. The nightly homemade meals and German television were a bonus. I have to say that watching the movie Braveheart dubbed in German was a first.
We are excited for our next ski trip in February where we will head down to a village just on the other side of Innsbruck, Austria. Can't. Wait.
The snowfall this year in the Alps has been hit or miss. We were getting a bit nervous the week before the trip when there was very little new snow on the slopes. However, a few days before we left a massive storm rolled in and dumped nearly 2 feet of snow....perfect. The super cold temperatures helped maintain the snow by not letting it melt and freeze each day.
While most ski vacations in Europe involve taking a full week to enjoy the slopes, we decided to limit our time to 3 days. We learned last year that after 3 days of skiing the massive fun is quickly replaced by sore and tired legs. The weather this year was unbelievable: pure sun, no clouds, and no wind. You couldn't ask for better conditions!
The official welcoming committee for Serfaus.
The views when skiing the Alps are....well....these pictures say it all.
One of our favorite lifts: Planseggbahn
With all the recent new snow the main runs were well-groomed....leaving the off piste prime for enjoying the powder.
A view from the top of Schonjachbahn gondola.
Safe to say Andrea is having a great time......
.....and safe to say I am having a great time.
Honestly, the Europeans have really figured out how to do skiing right. Get in a few runs and then pick out a nice bench (below) and take in the warm sun and enjoy unbelievable view. If I haven't said it before....I love skiing the Alps.
Another view of my chosen sun bathing location.
Our favorite eating spot: Wonnealm. A perfect deck with great views and hearty food. The perfect combination.
Skiing the back side....more great views, although they needed a bit more snow.
Andrea patiently...or impatiently....waiting for the camera guy.
One of the lifts, Konigsleithebahn, offered heated seats, custom kids stop, and adjustable feet rests. All the fine features for a lift named after a king......
The view from the Konigsleithebahn......
....and Andrea enjoying the view....and the heated seats.
More impressive views of the valley below.
At the end of the day, sometimes you just need one last rest on a good bench that offers an amazing view....
The best part of skiing at Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis: the helpful sign at the bottom that lets you know you are finished.
A view from the village Fiss at sunset.
What a great trip. Three days that each begin with a delicious breakfast followed by a fun-filled day skiing in the warm sun is a great vacation in my book. The nightly homemade meals and German television were a bonus. I have to say that watching the movie Braveheart dubbed in German was a first.
We are excited for our next ski trip in February where we will head down to a village just on the other side of Innsbruck, Austria. Can't. Wait.
There truely is no place like the Alps, those pics are breath taking. Montana has its own beauty but it can't compete with the Alps scenery. March seems so far away but I can wait:) I think anyway, see ya soon. T.J.
ReplyDeleteWow! So cool!! - MB
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