The free spirit of skiing has ruled Kitzbuehel since 1892, and after the success of last winter’s inaugural Freeride Weeks, the resort will once again be a magnet for lovers of the steep, deep and untracked. The 2015 event from 7-17 January combines guided backcountry skiing in untouched nature – a chance to test the latest fat skis, safety lectures, and parties!
And if you fancy yourself as the next Warren Miller, there’s a great film and photo competition. From December, make a freeride short film about your adventures in Kitzbuehel or take the perfect freeride photo and you could be in the running to win your own freeride Oscar. You’ll find registration and more information at lineoftheyear.com
“Whether demanding big mountain or pillow lines, we have more than 200 square kilometres of terrain that is ideal for freeriding,” says Freeride Weeks founder Matthias Haunholder, whose tip for a unique freeride experience is a day on the pristine Bichlalm. See kitzbuehel.com
Also in the Tirol throughout the season, around the Wiedersbergerhorn in Alpbach, there will be new Freeride Camps for beginners. Offering special lessons for competent skiers, who have yet to experience freeriding, the camps will take place on 10-18 January, 7-14 February and 14-21 March.
Prices start at £312 per person for 3 nights B&B, with 3-day freeride lessons (4hrs a day) from Sun-Tue or Wed-Fri. A backpack with avalanche equipment is also included. To book, contact the Alpbach Tourist Office
