OFF THE SLOPES

BOBSLEIGH RIDE, IGLS

From late December to March, if you dare, you can have the unique experience of doing a bobsleigh run on the Olympic course in Igls, where Winter Olympic sports heroes have competed for glory. Your chance to ride on a genuine, Olympic- style bobsleigh starts from only €30 per person in the guest sleigh, which holds five people, behind a professional pilot. The adrenaline rush couldn't be greater as you experience this thrilling winter sport on ice, sliding 800m and taking in ten curves. If you want to ride the full track from start to finish - achieving speeds of up to 115km/hr, making 14 curves and plummenting 125m in altitude - then opt for the taxi bobsleigh. The bobsleigh seats two passengers in addition to two professional pilots and costs €95 per person.

For more information visit olympiaworld.at

TOBOGGANING IN TIROL
Everyone loves a fun toboggan ride and this is one of the most popular off the slopes activities in the Tirol. The longest ride is the Bergkastel run, in Nauders in the Oberland, where the cable car takes you up to the start at 2200 m ready for the 8km long run down. The Karwendel region is home to 12 toboggan runs, including the 6km run at Weerburg. Romantics will love the floodlit 3km run at Hochgurgl, whilst the 3.5km long toboggan run in Söll is perfect for families and good for children old enough to start sledding themselves.

For more information visit offtheslopes.tyrol.com



HUSKY SNOWSHOE SAFARI, LEUTASCH
Husky rides have been popular for many years, but this adventure takes it to another level. Forget being pampered while the huskies pull you along, this is your turn to do some work. With snowshoes clipped over your walking boots and a lead strapped round your waist, its time for your energetic husky to lead you on a walk. You may be dog-tired by the end of the day but it is one of the most exhilarating and fun ways to discover the Leutasch Valley. Husky snowshoe safaris cost €54.

For more information visit tirolalpin.at

HORSESLEIGH RIDES, OLYMPIAREGION SEEFELD
For the total Tirol experience, take a horsedrawn sleigh or carriage ride, wrapped up in a warm blanket and accompanied by the sound of bells and a glistening snow scene. Tirol's largest lake, Achensee, offers romantic rides along the lakeside, whilst the high mountain valley of Wildschönau is a beautiful spot to marvel the landscape. The Olympiaregion Seefeld is another top spot, with the horses leaving directly from the village centre. You can cruise along the snow-covered paths or take a ride through the woods to the Triendlsäge restaurant where you can enjoy some traditional, heart-warming Tirolean cuisine.

For more information visit seefeld.com


WINTER HIKING
Hiking is not just reserved for summer. Winter is the perfect season to get out into the mountains for a spot of winter hiking or snowshoeing. The well-signposted hiking trails lead you through some of the region's most stunning scenery, often covered by a white blanket of fresh snow. Discover some wildlife tracks, breathe in the fresh, crisp, dry air and enjoy the utter silence and peace around you. There is no better way to get away from it all. The Tirolean hiking hotels are the best places to stay for winter and snowshoe hiking experiences. Staying here you can benefit from the best local knowledge and equipment with qualified guides who know all about the most beautiful tours and cosiest lodges.

For more information visit wanderhotels.at