When the first snow falls, we can’t wait to go outside! But since ski resorts are repeatedly criticized for lacking sustainability and as not every snow enthusiast likes to go skiing anyway, we show you some alternatives for your winter holiday.
Walking through the snowy forest
The Black Forest becomes a winter wonderland in the cold season and the area around the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb is just perfect for snowshoe hikes. Experience the silence of the woods, only interrupted by the soft crunching of the snow. You can borrow the light snowshoes in Bad Herrenalb (visit the tourist information at the town square for more information) and discover the snowy surroundings – either on your own or on a guided tour.

A special highlight around the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA is a sleigh ride or discovering the snow-covered landscape on a slide pulled by huskies. Families should not miss the snow fun area in Bad Herrenalb – with enough snow at the Albtal Arena, a course will be set up and fun is guaranteed when curling and or the snowshoe biathlon!
Tracks in the snow
Winter in the Berchtesgadener Land is just wonderful and the snowy mountains around the Berghotel Rehlegg can also be explored off the slopes. Hikes in the Alpine National Park Berchtesgaden are beautiful in every season and especially in winter when the landscape radiates its own tranquility – and whether red deer or eagle, if you’re quiet enough you may spot a few animals. To relax after a long day outside, head to the hotel’s spa area and the heated outdoor pool with panoramic mountain views.

Those who prefer speed can take their sled with them on a hike: Not far from the hotel you will find the more than 2.2 kilometers long and winding “Natur-Rodelbahn Hirscheckblit“. The toboggan run overcomes 400 meters in less than 15 minutes. Of course, it takes longer uphill, but if you like take the chairlift, which also takes the sled upstairs with you.
Winter silence
At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol snowshoeing also is very popular. Experience the winter silence wandering over the white glittering hills. The majestic scenery of the Tauern Mountains invites you to extended hikes and ambitious tours even in the cold season. Walk through the snow-covered winter world, past frozen waterfalls, icy shrubs, and snow-covered fir trees – leaving everyday life far behind you.

During the two to three guided winter tours per week, guests walk with mountain guides to the most beautiful places and explore untouched regions. An unforgettable experience is a romantic torch hike in the evening through the winter idyll of Matrei. By the way: For snowshoeing no prior knowledge is necessary and you get the equipment in the hotel – where a hot cup of tea or the Zirbenstubensauna awaits you afterwards.
Lane change in Bavaria
Cross-country skiing instead of rushing down the slope? This works particularly well at the HUBERTUS unplugged and is also much more nature-friendly. The ski resort of Balderschwang is one of the snowiest regions in Germany with up to twelve meters of snow per season. Here, the HUBERTUS unplugged not only offers a place for sustained wellness breaks but with “Spurwechsel” also a special offer for winter sports enthusiasts who want to come to rest doing cross-country skiing. Easy-to-learn running techniques provide safety and fun for future ventures on and off the trail.

Winter vacation with a difference
When fresh snow covers the hills and valleys in a thick white blanket, it’s the perfect time for a winter holiday at the Hotel Lamm Mitteltal, where not only numerous ski lifts await you, but also toboggan runs and winter hiking trails. Are you an experimental winter sports enthusiast? Then the Hotel Lamm Mitteltal in the Black Forest recommends curling: The old folk sport is a bit like curling and is traditionally played on frozen lakes, ponds or streams.

Our tip: In winter in Piedmont – simply magical!
Deceleration instead of a party – New Year’s Eve in Piedmont
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