As winter descends upon Europe, adventure seekers are turning their attention to two standout destinations: Interlaken in Switzerland and Innsbruck in Austria. Both locations are renowned for their outdoor activities, but they offer distinct experiences for winter holidaymakers.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Located in the Bernese Oberland region between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor exploration. Despite the colder temperatures, the resort provides accessible winter hiking and kayaking opportunities.
Interlaken boasts five designated ski and snowboarding areas, including Beatenberg-Niederhorn and Brienz-Axalp, catering to various skill levels. The Habkern area features a single ski lift connecting four pistes, while Aeschi-Aeschiried offers breathtaking views overlooking Lake Thun and the Niesen mountain.
For those who prefer cycling, the area provides a bike-friendly infrastructure, allowing for leisurely rides even in winter. The “Winterlaken” tour offered by Yellow Velo features a two-hour e-bike journey guided through the town’s historic sites, including a 13th-century castle and the charming town of Bönigen.
Additionally, winter hikers can explore 220 kilometers of maintained trails, such as the Aeschi hike, which provides continuous views of the Niesen peak. On nearby Lake Brienz, winter kayaking is also available; participants can enjoy a serene half-day tour through its turquoise waters while equipped with dry suits.
Accommodation options in Interlaken range from wellness hotels to campsites, providing various ways for visitors to spend their nights. While the region lacks its own airport, the nearest is 50 kilometers away in Bern, with regular train connections to major cities like Zürich and Geneva.
Innsbruck, Austria
Meanwhile, Innsbruck, known as the capital of the Alps, offers a different but equally appealing winter experience. The city features Austria’s highest toboggan run located at the Kühtai ski resort, which boasts a length of 2,020 meters and reaches an altitude of 2,127 meters. The toboggan run is illuminated for nighttime enjoyment, making for an adventurous evening outing.
Innsbruck is recognized for the Bergisel Ski Jump, designed by Zaha Hadid, which not only serves as a sports facility but also offers a panoramic viewing terrace and a glass-enclosed restaurant, Bergisel Sky.
For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Innsbruck presents nearly 40 trails, including the Panoramaloipe trail in Rinn, which offers varied tracks for both diagonal and skating techniques. After skiing, visitors can enjoy local cuisine at Graf Ferdinand Haus, known for its “hot stone” dining and fondue options.
Innsbruck features diverse accommodation options, including traditional farmers’ apartments for an authentic Tyrolean experience and mountain lodgings with stunning views. It is also served by its own airport, facilitating access to numerous airlines. The city’s transportation network includes a dedicated coach terminal, connecting to various national and international routes.
As travelers consider their winter getaway options, both Interlaken and Innsbruck promise a range of outdoor activities and unique experiences amidst the gorgeous Alpine backdrop.
