Zermatt

On the Zermatt field in Switzerland you will find superb scenery, alpine charm, luxury accommodation and an excellent ski school. Zermatt, is at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn.

Zermatt has developed into both a summer and winter resort. There are no motorised vehicles in Zermatt. Besides electrically-powered cars and bicycles, the only form of transport allowed is horse-drawn sleighs and carriages. A promenade down the main street in the evening is always popular. At any time, it is delightful to explore some of the tiny (and romantic) cobbled alleyways just off the main street, where you will find ancient sun browned barns and traditional chalets. It is very much like stepping back in time.

Zermatt offers plenty of superb open terrain for boarders. There are also two snowboard parks and two man-made half pipes - one at Blauherd, the other between Trockener Steg and Furgg. Snowboards are also welcome on all lifts and 99% of the pistes. There is also a dedicated snowboarding school.

Innsbruck Austria

Axamer Lizum is located in Austria. It offers the best range of skiing and boarding within immediate reach of Innsbruck. Axamer is one of the top snowboarding resorts in Austria, with riders sometimes outnumbering the skiiers. The resort has a world known terrain park and a half-pipe. The base of the ski area is at 874m(2867ft) and the top is 2343m (7687ft). The snow cover is generally reliable. The longest run is 6.5km. There is a skiable area of 41 hectares.

Axamer Lizum is less than two hours flight time from the United Kingdom plus a transfer from Innsbruck. The ski resort is good for expert skiers, intermediate skiers, beginners and a fun park and boardercross are available for snowboarding. The resort gives you direct access to 40km of downhill skiing and is served by ten ski lifts and is one of the smaller Austrian ski resorts.

Axamer Lizum was the site of the women's downhill run in the two Innsbruck Olympics in 1964 and 1976.