Solden
Ski Resort

Sölden, which in English is usually simplified to “Solden” although “Soelden” is also used, was the spectacular backdrop to the James Bond movie ‘Spectre’. And what attracted the film’s director is also what attracts skiers to the resort: its remarkable elevation.

The main resort might be located at a relatively modest 1377m above sea level but it has powerful ski lifts that reach nearly 2000m above it, giving access to the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers. And nor are these the only high points, with other lifts outside the glacier ski area reaching approximately 3000m on Gaislachkogl and Schwarzkogl.

For moviemakers, this height serves up amazing scenery, and Solden’s BIG3 panoramic viewing platforms are still ‘must see’ sights for any visitor. But for skiers, its altitude also ensures dependable snow-conditions throughout a long ski season. No wonder that the FIS World Cup ski races start here as early as October.

The fact that the resort itself is so far below its highest ski lifts also gives scope for some very long runs: in Solden you can ski downhill non-stop for up to 15km – if you’re fit enough and strong-willed enough not to be tempted by the mountain restaurants you pass by. But you don’t have to be an expert to ski either this or the vast majority of Solden’s slopes, because its ski area suits skiers who wants to cruise around on relatively easy blue and red pistes, and maybe try the occasional black, provided it’s well groomed and not too steep.

Solden’s also a good resort for beginners, who not only benefit from guaranteed snow, but can start off on nursery slopes covered by special inexpensive passes before moving onto the gentle blue runs nearby. Advanced skiers have a few genuinely testing slopes but should also ski off-piste with a guide.

And Solden also appeals to winter holidaymakers who are as interested in the après-ski as the skiing. This starts at lunchtime in the mountain restaurants and continues into the small hours back in the resort. Solden, however, is a big resort, so there are quieter family-oriented areas where you can stay as well, most notably Hochsolden, which is located high up the mountain. And there are activities, like visiting the James Bond OO7 Elements exhibition or floodlit tobogganing, that appeal to both children and adults.

Solden’s own ski area isn’t very large with about 145km of piste. But its 6-day skipass covers 5 other ski areas in and around the Ötztal valley, including Obergurgl/Gurgl, which is less than 25 minutes away by ski bus. And the two resorts together should have enough slopes for most skiers, and more than enough mountain restaurants and spectacular scenery.