Snowbombing 2012

Each spring, people come from all over the world for a music and winter sports festival in the Alps. Dubbed, “the world’s greatest show on snow,” Snowbombing is a well-established music and entertainment experience, the only one of its kind in Europe. The twelfth edition of the festival will take place in the resort town of Mayrhofen (known to insiders as “der Hoff”). Located in Western Austria, this charming Tyrolean village sits low in the mountains and offers the perfect setting for a week of snow-filled fun. Most Snowbombers come back year after year to enjoy all that the festival has to offer. A star-studded lineup, ample snowboarding and skiing opportunities, and performances in unusual locations (both in the town and on the mountain), ensure an adventure like no other.
Festival Line Up
Example, DJ Shadow, Groove Armada present Redlight, The Vaccines, Fatboy Slim, Chase and Status, Wretch 32, Labrinth, Zane Lowe, Skream, Sub Focus, Andy C & MC GQ, Knife & Party, Crookers, Tensnake, DJ Yoda, Mr. Scruff : Keep it Unreal, Jungle Brothers (live), James Zabiela, Heidi, Aeroplane, Jack Beats, Mistajam, Soul Clap, Hospitality feat. High Contrast, London Electricity, Netsky, Nu:Tone, Camo & Krooked, Shy FX, Seth Troxler, Damian Lazarus, Jamie Jones, Doctor P, Rustie, Friction, Norman Jay, Breakage, Redlight & Dread MC, Toddla T, The Cuban Brothers, Riton, Pearson Sound, The Whip (live), Lindstrom, Lee Curtis, Paul Woolford, Jackmaster, Alex Metric, Ben Westbeech, Artwork, P Money (live), Scratch Perverts, Dillon Francis, Roska, Metro Area (Darshan Jesrani), Krafty Kuts, Stanton Warriors, Plump DJ's, Style of Eye, Doorly, Tale of Us, The Glimmers, Julio Bashmore, Justin Robertson, Kris Menace, Dub Pistol's Soundsystem ft. Rodney P, Midland, Loadstar, Ralph Lawson, A1 Bassline, Blawan, Oneman, Marcus Nasty, Spencer Parker, Geddes, Boddika, Jaymo & Andy George, Hot Lunch (Ewan Pearson & Sasse), S.O.S (Omid 16B & Demi), Lil Silva, Redinho, Spencer, Martelo, Tayo, George Fitzgerald, Scarlett Etienne, Rattus Rattus & Klose One feat. Illaman, Ladywaks, Michelle Owen, Gareth Cooper, Marc Roberts, Caze Nove, Sophie Lloyd, Prophecy, Danny Raper, Fuzzbox Inc., Raffle Mafia, John Kahuna, Scott Bleepz, Elliot Croft, Bunny & Ernest, Dutch Settlers, Seedy Sonics DJ's, F.O.H DJ's, Matik DJ's, MCS: Sgt Pokes, Youngman, Wrec, Dynamite MC
Photo: Snowbombing
- How do I get to and from the festival?
- How do I get around during the event?
- What time does it start and end?
- Is reentry allowed?
- Are there any prohibited items?
- Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
- Will there be food sold at the event?
- Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
- What do I need to know about money?
- What will the weather be like?
- What should I wear?
- What should I bring?
- Anything else I need to know?
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How do I get to and from the festival?
There are a variety of ways to get to and from the festival, depending on your location.
The closest airport is Innsbruck, located about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Mayrhofen. This airport handles mostly regional flights, meaning there are only a handful of cities outside of Austria that offer direct flights (London, and large cities in Germany). From Innsbruck, travelers would take the train (ÖBB, the Austrian rail system) to Mayrhofen, which takes about an hour. However, this is not the recommended route, as airfare is very expensive, even for nonstop flights from other cities in Europe.
The train is a much better option for regional travelers. It’s more economical than flying, and arguably more reliable. International travelers should fly into Berlin, Munich, or Salzburg and then take the train to Mayrhofen.
Snowbombing offers airport transfers to and from three different airports. For Munich and Salzburg, the fee is £36 ($56) each way, and Innsbruck is £29 ($45) each way. There are also coaches from various cities in the U.K., which cost between £118 ($185) and £134 ($210), depending on location; travelers can depart April 7 (if you prefer to arrive a day early, but know that you will have to book an extra night’s stay) or April 8, and all coaches will leave Mayrhofen on April 14th for an April 15th arrival.
There is also the popular Snowbombing Road Trip. This multi-country European road trip starts in London and takes a ferry to France, stopping in other countries along the route to the festival. Over 100 cars take part in the trip each year. The Road Trip costs £259 ($400) per car (up to five occupants per car), and includes Snowbombing Road Trip memorabilia, a stopover in Frankfurt, parking in Mayrhofen, tickets for your return ferry, and several parties and events along the way. Note that overnight accommodations are not included in the Roadtrip ticket, though you do get a hefty discount. CLICK HERE for more information about the Road Trip.
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How do I get around during the event?
Mayrhofen is fairly small; everything you need is within a stone’s throw. During the day, there is a ski bus that tours Mayrhofen’s surrounding areas. This bus is free and runs every thirty minutes until 5:30pm. At night, Snowbombing operates a similar free shuttle bus on the same route, which runs until the early hours of the morning.
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What time does it start and end?
Start times for music events vary from venue to venue; music events start as early as noon and last through the early morning hours.
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Is reentry allowed?
Reentry is almost always allowed with your festival pass. Since Snowbombing is held at multiple venues make sure to double-check at the door.
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Are there any prohibited items?
Weapons, animals, and illegal substances should not be brought to the festival.
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Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
This policy will vary from venue to venue.
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Will there be food sold at the event?
An extensive variety of food and drink is available. There are 43 restaurants to choose from in town, and more options on the mountain. Sandwiches, steak, sausage, pizza, and traditional Tyrolean food can all be found, and the prices are very reasonable.
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Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
Alcohol will be available at the various venues, as well as in the bars and restaurants in town. There are a total of 18 bars in the town.
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What do I need to know about money?
Many vendors will accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry cash. ATMs can be found throughout the area as well. For a mid-range budget, you should plan to spend approximately €30-35 ($39-$45) per day.
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What will the weather be like?
People who have never been to the Alps before might expect it to be cold and very snowy, but Mayrhofen is quite lovely in the spring. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from about 2°- 13°C (35°- 52°F). Skys are a nice mix of sun and clouds, and any precipitation in the village should be minimal.
A note to skiers and snowboarders: Mayrhofen itself is not very high up in the mountains, but the lift will take you up to 1,800 meters (5,900 feet), where the snow is usually reliable.
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What should I wear?
Since temperatures will vary during the day, dress in layers so that you can adjust, keeping in mind that this is a festival, so you’ll want to be comfortable enough to dance. A regular pair of closed-toed shoes will do for most of the festival, but bring boots if you plan to spend any time in the snow; certain add-on entertainment, like the popular Arctic Disco, will require warm, substantial footwear. Inside the clubs, lightweight going-out clothes are best, as things do get crowded.
If you plan on hitting the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding, bring whatever clothing you would normally wear for these activities. Ski pants and jackets, headwear, gloves, etc. You can never have too many waterproofs.
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What should I bring?
Don’t let cloudy skies fool you ‐ Mayrhofen’s high altitude makes it very easy to get a sunburn, so ample sun protection (sunscreen, lip protectant, eyewear, etc.). Although there will be equipment rentals at the resort, bring skis/board if you’d prefer to use your own. Bring a swimsuit or two, as many of the hotels have swimming pools and saunas. Snowbombing is also known for its fancy dress (translation: costume) parties, so definitely come prepared to participate.
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Anything else I need to know?
“Pensions” (a term you will see on the booking website) are self-catered apartments, which include a full kitchen, lounge area, and sleeping area. This is a great option for saving money. Central apartments are within walking distance of Mayrhofen (10 minutes on foot, at most); apartments in the Ziller Valley area (4.5 kilometers/2.8 miles) are great option for the budget-conscious.
Snowbombing is sold as a package that includes accommodations and access to the music festival. While the Snowbombing ticket is for five days, those wishing to arrive early or stay later can do so at an additional cost. All of the hotels and bed-and-breakfasts include breakfast.
Monday, Apr 9, 2012
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The Back Country Party
The Roxy
Held in a 175-year-old traditional mountain hut, the first installation of the Back Country Party will feature Artwork, Ben Westbeech, Ben UFO, Firas, and Jay Karim. Sold out
Thursday, Apr 12, 2012
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The Good Times Carnival
Motorola Mountain Terrace at the Board Park
The Good Times Carnival, hosted by Norman Jay, is a Carnival-style fancy dress (costume) event. Think bright, bold, colorful, sequins, feathers, dreads, and beads. Mountainside disco battle featuring MistaJam, Skream, Artwork, and Jackmaster. More info HERE.
Friday, Apr 13, 2012
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Speakerbox
Racket Club
On April 13, Speakerbox will take over the Racket Club, with performances from Artwork, MistaJam, Kife Party, and Chase & Status.
Eat
With a total of 43 restaurants and 18 bars, you will never be short of options after a hard day of shredding powder. Whether you want a traditional Austrian meal or a taste of another country, there is an option for you. Make sure to drink plenty of water at the high altitude, but save room for a cold brew, as Austrians drink more Grolsch than other nation in Europe.
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Forellenstüberl
- Laubichl 154
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 664 6349264
Forellenstuberl is not a fancy place, but their fish is exquisite. Appetizers like the matejes trout and cold smoked rainbow trout have received rave reviews; same goes for entrée items like the mullerin trout, and the rainbow trout roll with ham and spinach. The service is fast and efficient and the prices are very reasonable. This restaurant has come highly recommended from many world travelers.
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China-Restaurant Singapore
- Scheulingstraße 371
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 52 8563912
A pot-bellied Buddha greets you at Singapore, which spices up the village with its tasty Asian fare. Fill up on Sichuan beef or delicious cold-weather soup before crossing the street for drinks in Scotland Yard.
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Bruggerstube
- Hollenzen 111
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- 05285/63793
This is a good, simple restaurant filled, with delicious native food on a budget. And, if English is your native tongue, you’re in luck ‐ English menus are available.
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Gasthof Restaurant Perauer
- Ahornstraße 854
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62566
- http://www.perauer.at/start-de.htm
This newly rebuilt hotel is surrounded by the mountain peaks of the Ziller valley and is situated in right near the village center. The restaurant offers traditional “Stüberls” and delicious international cuisine. It’s a family-run place that makes you want to sit back and take in the Austrian ambiance and hospitality.
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Freiraum
- Hauptstrasse 472
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 664 1334546
- www.freiraum-mayrhofen.com
Freiraum offers diners a café/bistro atmosphere, 2,000 meters above sea level. Located on Ahorn Mountain, you come here for the panoramic views over the Zilertal Alps, but stay for the traditional delicacies ‐ both drinks and food.
Sleep
Snowbombing is sold as an accommodation and entertainment package, meaning the event wristband is included in the price of your accommodation. Whether you want to roll in luxury with a 4 star spa hotel or save some cash for other adventures, there are plenty of options available. After booking your accommodation, you will be able add various travel and event options to your itinerary.
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Hotel Pension Strolz
- Durst 279
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62256
- www.strolz-zillertal.at
The Hotel Strolz is centrally located, near all of the action in Mayrhofen. The hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool, and its very own Sauna World, including a steam room and aromatherapy shower. All bedrooms come with a bathroom, hairdryer, safe, and satellite TV; and some rooms are equipped with private balconies. Be sure to say hello to Frau Strolz, who prides herself on the comfort she provides, and on her excellent home-cooked cuisine. The Strolz Dependance is next door to the Strolz; breakfast for both hotels is served at Hotel Strolz.
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Jägerhof
- Tuxer Straße 722
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62540
- http://www.jaegerhof.cc/
Hotel Jägerhof is located in the very center of Mayrhofen, on the main street, within easy walking distance the Penken cable-car. This hotel has a friendly atmosphere, full amenities, and excellent service. Enjoy the comfort of the well-appointed rooms and the pleasant atmosphere of the hotel’s various public areas. All rooms are ensuite, which means they are equipped with private bathroom facilities; rooms are also equipped with radio, hairdryer, telephone, safe, cable TV and balconies. In the wellness facility you have the choice between a Finnish sauna, a relaxing flavored steam bath and an infrared cabin.
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Hotel Garni Montana
- Sportplatzstraße 302
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 63802
- www.montana-mayrhofen.at
With its excellent location and laid-back, informal atmosphere, the Hotel Montana is fast becoming a firm favorite with the Snowbombing crowd. Located just beyond the Underground Pub and Rockstar Palace, it’s a short 5-7 minute walk to the Penken cable-car, and positioned in a central area that’s just a stone’s throw away from all Snowbombing venues. All rooms are ensuite and are equipped with free WiFi, and satellite TV.
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Hotel Kramerwirt
- Am Marienbrunnen 346
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 6700
- http://www.kramerwirt.at/en/kramerwirt/index.html
The Kramerwirt is a large, majestic hotel that oozes local charm. It’s in a perfect location on the main stretch in Mayrhofen, boasting one heck of a party piece…it’s own rooftop Jacuzzi. Rooms are mostly twins and triples; all are ensuite, with TVs, safes, hairdryers and balconies. The top floor is one of the best-kept secrets in town.
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Hotel Pension Waldheim
- Fischerstrasse 509
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 622 11
- http://www.hotelwaldheim.at/en/hotel.html
Located in a fantastic area, the Hotel Waldhiem provides an excellent base from which to explore the delights of Snowbombing. Approximately a 10-minute walk to either the Penken or Ahorn cable-cars, and within a stone’s throw of the Forest Party venue, this hotel offers central accommodation at a great value. The hotel features its own solarium, with saunas and massages available. All rooms are ensuite, with satellite TV and WiFi.
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Pension Birkenhof
- Schwendaustraße 184
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43.5285.6 34 03
- http://almhof-mayrhofen.at/en/pension-birkenhof-pension-rosenhof/index.html
The friendly Birkenhof is located in Mayrhofen, within a short-walk to the main central venues. This typical Austrian alpine guesthouse is slightly set back from the hustle and bustle of the main street. All rooms are equipped with a shower and a toilet; the Birkenhof also has a lounge/breakfast room with a TV.
Shop
Mayrhofen is a resort town, so many of its shops cater to the skiers and snowboarders who are on vacation. Hauptstraße (High Street) is home to dozens of other stores: clothing, artisanal crafts and jewelry, and locally-produced food items can all be found here. Those staying in pensions will want to purchase groceries at one of the supermarkets in town.
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Billa
- Am Marienplatz 346
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 63424
- www.billa.at
The largest supermarket chain in Austria, Billa, carries popular brands at reasonable prices. One-stop shopping for all the food you could need. This location is very close to Hotel Rose, one of the Snowbombing hotels.
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Spar
- Rauchenwald 675
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 650110
- www.spar.at
Spar is another centrally located grocery store. Though they stock pretty much the same items as Billa, the prices here may be slightly lower. Of the two, definitely choose Spar for booze, as the selection is much better.
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Hervis
- Einfahrt Mitte 443
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 64045
- www.hervis.at
This is among the largest winter sports retailers in Mayrhofen, with a good selection and friendly employees. Hervis also has equipment for rental.
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Hotzone
- Scheulingstraße 390
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 64444
- www.moreboards.com
A good selection for both men and women. This store stocks the typical clothing and gear for winter sports, but also has skateboards, shoes, swimsuits, and street clothing.
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Shopping in Innsbruck, Austria
- Inssbruck, Austria
The nearest shopping destination is Innsbruck, which is just a short train ride away. Take the Mayrhofen im Zillertal to Innsbruck Hbf, changing trains in Jenbach. Total travel time is about an hour and a half. You can plan your route and buy a ticket HERE. For clothing and accessories, there is a great selection of independent boutiques and larger chain stores, just take a look around; for shopping centers, Rathaus Galerien and the architecturally stunning Kaufhaus Tyrol are two popular choices. Design-conscious women will love Bordetto, with well-curated pieces from European lines. Witzmann has an extensive collection of timepieces. There is also a Wolford Boutique, which has some of the highest-quality hosiery available. Austrians are known for their love of great food, so be sure to check out Konditorei Munding for beautiful cakes, pastries, and chocolate. Spezialitäten Aus Der Stiftgasse is great for foodie-approved gifts, like preserves, honey and liqueur. No matter what you're looking for, Innsbruck is the perfect place for a shopping day trip.
Party
Unlike single-venue festivals, Snowboming takes place in various clubs, bars and other locations throughout the town. Mayrhofen is recognized for having some of the best après-ski in the region, and lucky for you, entrance to all of the performances is included in the package price. Here are a few unofficial Snowbombing venues that are worth checking out, all of which will be definitely be bustling with fellow festival attendees.
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Eisbar
- Hauptstraße 470
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 6705
- www.hotelstrass.com
Eisbar, aka Ice Bar, is a great place to start the evening. Housed in the Strass Hotel, a very popular lodging choice for festivalgoers, the bar is known for being very loud and very lively, despite its 20:00 closing time. Normally popular with Dutch crowds, Ice Bar is a staple for Snowbombers. Be prepared to drink a lot of Grolsch, and don’t be alarmed by the seemingly crazy man jumping around in a polar bear suit...it’s all part of the fun!
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White Lounge
- Hauptstraße 472
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62277
- www.whitelounge.at
Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, the White Lounge is not your typical bar... it’s housed in an igloo. Lie on a deck chair for some sunbathing during the day, then grab frozen cocktails and other drinks. A little (friendly) competition is not unheard of; patrons sometimes sled downhill in a race. The interior is a sight to see.
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Scotland Yard Pub
- Scheulingstraße 372
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62339
- www.scotlandyard.at
Sip beer and munch on Walkers crisps (that’s “potato chips,” for all you non-Europeans) at this British-themed pub, complete with a red telephone box. Scotland Yard Pub features an extensive array of on-tap beers, a friendly staff, darts, and pool tables. Scotland Yard is especially popular with snowboarders, and is sure to be busy during Snowbombing.
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Nikki’s Schirmbar
- Ahornstrasse 850
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
Located just down the street from Schlüsselalm, an official Snowbombing venue, Nikki’s Schirmbar is one of the most popular drinking spots. The bar, which is set outdoors, is always quite busy.
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Happy End
- Hauptstraße 477
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 62333
- www.skizone.at/en/happyend.html
A cozy and often crowded bar with a great selection of local beer, wine, and mixed drinks, plus nonalcoholic drinks like espresso and tea to keep you warm. Happy End is also a café, and the food is quite tasty. This is an especially convenient choice if Ice Bar is too crowded, plus the menu here is much more diverse. They also have free WiFi if you feel inclined to bring a computer.
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Apropos
- Hauptstraße 412
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 64830
- www.apropos.cc
When many other places in town are already closing their doors, things are just getting started at Apropos. Opening at 20:30, it’s a great place for late-night revelers, with its cheerful patrons and cheap drinks. It has a bit of a dive bar feel, but locals love it. Plus, they have an impressive selection of single malt whiskeys and local beers.
Explore
During Snowbombing week, the festival will definitely be the most exciting thing happening, but Mayrhofen is a popular destination otherwise.
Mayrhofen attracts snow-sport lovers from all around the world. Regardless of experience, the slopes are sure to please. Local instructors are some of the best in the world, and many speak English. Snowbombing also offers affordable private lesson packages that can be added to your trip (£79 ($122) to £99 ($153) for skiing, £84 ($130) to £104 ($160) for snowboarding). There are dozens of pistes to choose from; the Ahorn mountain is ideal for beginners, the Penken, including the Vans park, is perfect for boarding, and nearby Hintertux Glacier is Austria's only year-round ski destination. For the daring, check out the Harakiri; its 78% incline makes it the steepest groomed slope in Austria.
If you get tired of the parties and the slopes, there's plenty more to explore in Mayrhofen, and the surrounding areas.
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Planetarium Königsleiten
- Königsleiten 29
- 5742 Wald im Pinzgau, Austria
- +43 6564 20014
- www.sternwarte-koenigsleiten.com
Get a bit closer to outer space at this planetarium and observatory, located a short distance from Mayrhofen. Watch the planetarium show, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, and then head next door to the observatory for some star gazing.
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Sennerei Zillertal
- Hollenzen 116
- 6290 Mayrhofen, Austria
- +43 5285 63906
- www.sennerei-zillertal.at
Here’s something most people have never seen before: a working dairy farm. Visit Sennerei Zillertal (The Zillertal Dairy) for the tour of a family-owned and operated business. English audio guides enable tourists to learn about dairy production, with a little history lesson on the region and the people who live there. After watching the foods being made, you can actually try their products, including milk, buttermilk, butter (with locally-baked bread), and lots of different cheeses.
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Planetarium Königsleiten
- Königsleiten 29
- 5742 Wald im Pinzgau, Austria
- +43 6564 20014
- www.sternwarte-koenigsleiten.com
Get a bit closer to outer space at this planetarium and observatory, located a short distance from Mayrhofen. Watch the planetarium show, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, and then head next door to the observatory for some star gazing.
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Hintertux Glacier
- Hintertux 794
- 6293 Tux-Hintertux, Austria
- +43 5287 8510
- www.hintertuxergletscher.at/natureispalast
The glacier at Tux isn’t just for winter sports enthusiasts. Opt for a guided tour of Nature’s Ice Palace, the beautifully- and naturally-formed glacier caves, no climbing experience necessary. You’ll be provided with a helmet, but be sure to wear a sturdy pair of shoes or boots and a warm jacket, because it will be cold. Tours are available in German and English.
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Swarovski Crystal World
- Kristallwelternstrasse 1
- Wattens 6112, Austria
- +43 5224 51080
- www.kristallwelten.swarovski.com
If you like modern and abstract art, take the train to Innsbruck and hop on the Kristallwelten shuttle for a truly unique experience. Crystal World is not an informative museum where you’ll learn about the production of Swarovski crystals; rather, it is a place to marvel at the work of Dalí, Chagall, Warhol, Andrê Heller, and other iconic artists. Points of interest include the largest kaleidoscope in the world, an architecturally stunning alpine garden, and a walk-through Ice Palace tunnel. There is also a restaurant and Swarovski shop. Make sure to spend a few minutes in the Crystal Dome, a massive structure adorned with hundreds of mirrors accompanied by the music of Brian Eno.
At-a-Glance
Location:
Mayrhofen, AustriaDates:
April 9-14, 2012Price Points:
£289-£499 ($453-$783) per person, for a 5-night stayWebsite:
www.snowbombing.com/en/
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15 November 2011

