Oberstdorf Kleinwalsertal

Oberstdorf, Germany's southernmost municipality, is a compact alpine town nestled in the Allgäu Alps where three valleys converge near the Austrian border. This traditional Bavarian town, sitting at 815m, offers a relaxed atmosphere with a pedestrianised centre, independent shops, and local restaurants. The area boasts a rich skiing heritage, having hosted the first Nordic World Ski Championships in 1953 and remaining a regular fixture on the Four Hills Tournament ski jumping circuit.

The skiing is spread across three distinct mountains. Nebelhorn reaches 2,224m, offering a significant 1,396m vertical drop and Germany's longest run at 7.5km, providing steep, snow-sure terrain above the treeline. Fellhorn/Kanzelwand crosses into Austria's Kleinwalsertal, featuring wide, flowing runs through open alpine meadows. Söllereck, known as the "Adventure Mountain," is a gentler, family-friendly area with well-groomed blue runs and a dedicated beginner zone. The Oberstdorf-Kleinwalsertal pass covers approximately 130km of pistes served by over 40 lifts, all connected by a regular ski bus network. The season typically runs from late November to early May on the higher slopes.

Oberstdorf offers three distinct mountains for skiers and snowboarders to explore throughout the week. Söllereck provides wide, well-groomed runs across gentle terrain, complete with a beginner zone directly accessible from the gondola. Fellhorn/Kanzelwand, the most extensive area, features open alpine bowls on the German side that flow into the Austrian Kleinwalsertal, offering a mix of cruising blues and engaging reds through varied landscapes. The Nebelhorn takes you to the highest point at 2,224m, where the skiing is steep, exposed, and includes Germany's longest run at 7.5km back to the town.

The three areas are not interconnected by ski runs, so daily mountain selection is made easy by a free and frequent ski bus service. This practical system ensures each area retains its unique character, offering different terrain, views, and experiences. Dedicating a full day to each mountain keeps the week varied and prevents overcrowding.

Söllereck is Oberstdorf's dedicated mountain for beginners, providing an ideal learning environment. With its own separate terrain, new skiers can concentrate on developing skills without the distraction of faster skiers. The slopes are wide, well-groomed, and gentle, accessed by a modern gondola, ensuring a comfortable experience. At the base, Sölli's Winter World offers conveyor belts and practice slopes, perfect for initial lessons.

As confidence grows, beginners can naturally progress to the blue runs at Fellhorn, which offer longer pistes and more varied terrain without a sudden increase in difficulty. The ski bus provides a seamless transition between the two areas, allowing most beginners to comfortably explore Fellhorn's lower sections by mid-week. The panoramic views from the Fellhorn summit across the Allgäu Alps and into Austria are an added bonus.

Oberstdorf offers plenty to do for non-skiers. The town features a large thermal spa, 140km of winter walking paths, and the impressive Breitachklamm gorge. Scenic gondola rides provide stunning views for sightseers, while the ski jumping arena is an interesting place to visit. The pedestrianised centre offers a variety of shops and restaurants. For active non-downhill skiers, 75km of cross-country ski trails are also available.