Summer in a Ski Resort?
As soon as November hits, I am almost counting down the days until we get to The Lodge and get our annual dose of cold, crisp mountain air and hit the slopes on the skis. However, we have also come to realise that time in these mountains in the summer is also really special. From mountain biking to climbing, zip wiring to white water rafting, there is so much fun to be had. Ski resorts really are not just for winter. Even better, travelling to the mountains over the summer is super easy and affordable, compared to the winter months.
Whilst there may not be sand and sea, as we normally associate with our summer holidays, the sun still shines, and the skies are still blue! If you have never experienced the stunning scenery, beautiful flora and fauna and the spectacular wildlife that come to the mountains in the summer, then please put it on your list! It won’t disappoint.
Why not swap your skis for some walking boots? In Saalbach we have discovered some of the most picturesque walks. There is over 400km of hiking trails ranging from lengthy hikes to conquer high summits, or panoramic walks to enjoy the vista. Six of the ski lifts run all summer, bringing you directly up to the trails.
Whilst Adam and I enjoy the hiking, with the occasional stop at one of the many fabulous panoramic restaurants that are open in the summer for a cooling glass of something, our (not so little) children can be found exploring the hundreds of kilometres of bike routes. Saalbach is Austria’s largest bike region and attracts some pretty cool events, such as the World Games of Mountain Biking. Some of the trails are not for the feint hearted, and I personally am way past the point of gritting my teeth and trying to keep up with the younger members of the family. The boys, however, are adrenaline junkies and absolutely thrive on the thrill and the pace of the trails. And just when I think they couldn’t possibly need anymore adrenaline pumping through their bodies, off they go to Europe’s largest high rope park (www.hochseilpark.at) where they happily spend an afternoon goofing around on the rope slides and zip wires. Truly stunning.
This summer, we also tried our hand at lake swimming. Now, I am a pretty confident swimmer, but the thought of lake weed half filled me with terror. But as we approached the lake which is always so dark in the winter months, the turquoise water was so inviting, we all dashed in. And I am pleased to say if there was any lake weed, it stayed well away from me! We all spent a magical day, SUP boarding, water skiing and wake boarding (well, the boys. I was happy on my SUP board).
In the winter months my daughter, Jess, and I are quite partial to a Hugo cocktail (so much so, we now have a dog called Hugo, pictured below). I was delighted to discover this firm favourite of mine transfers perfectly into a refreshing summers day drink. It is made from gin, prosecco, elderflower, mint, lime and soda water. Just the perfect way to end perfect days.
So. Summer in a ski resort? It is a massive yes from me! Give it a go and have a summer holiday that you will never forget!
