Bad Hofgastein

By far the best way to explore this beautiful valley and the impressive slopes is through the Ski Club Freshtracks Holidays that head out to the resort each winter. All are aimed specifically at over-55s and don’t worry – spa trips play a major role in the itinerary!

The main Schlossalm sector above the resort has a network of open blues and reds above the tree-line, which then drop into pretty forests. This is then linked to Stubnerkogel – via the Angertal – directly above Badgastein. Further up the valley lies the snowsure Sportgstein sector and above Dorfgastein down the valley, another 63km of linked pistes can be found, either side of the Fulseck mountain.

For beginners, the best area is located at Angertal, a short bus hop away from the centre of town. From here, progression is generally good across the valley and intermediates have access to a great network of well-groomed slopes. The only things really lacking are real challenges for advanced and expert skiers or boarders – you’ll need to wait for a powder day as most of the blacks are relatively mellow.

Salzburg is by far the closest airport, and, in a good run, you’ll be in resort after an hour of driving (or in just under two hours via public transport).

Innsbruck and Munich offer alternatives, but the drive will take around three or four hours respectively.

• Salzburg airport: 1 hour (driving) or 2 hours (by public transport)
• Innsbruck airport: 3 hours (driving)
• Munich airport: 4 hours (driving)
• Calais: approximately 14 hours driving (735 miles)