Igls ski resort (a part of the greater Innsbruck ski area) is a small Alpine resort situated on a sunny plateau at the foot of Patscherköfel Mountain. Igls attracts a slightly older and more sedate skiing crowd. It was here, in 1976, that Franz Klammer won a gold medal at the games on the four-kilometre course.
Commercialism hasn't yet taken over this charming resort town, nestled in the shadow of the imposing 2,268m Patscherköfel Mountain and surrounded by stone-pine forests, and it's not prohibitively expensive. Attractive walking paths leading through meadows to nearby villages add to the relaxed charm and genuine sense of retreat.
There are well appointed five-star hotels and a good selection of hostels and affordable accommodation at Igls. There is a varied programme of entertainment and a few local nightspots, including dance halls and discos; however, Igls is more of a laid-back ski resort with a quieter après-ski scene. As a cultural centre, Igls hosts many folkloric and cultural events. There is also a children's ski school with experienced instructors on hand.
Situated at over 900m, Igls ski resort provides skiing for beginners and more experienced skiers with several kilometres of well-groomed runs of gentle slopes to good intermediate terrain; skiers are transported via cable car, two chairlifts and five draglifts. In addition to the pistes, there are 20kms of cross-country trails.
A free Skibus connects Igls to the five other ski areas and one pass is valid for all six areas. The resort of Kühtai has night skiing on Wednesdays, and skiing on the Stubai Glacier is also a highlight. Away from the slopes, the city of Innsbruck is a wonderful place for sightseeing, with plenty of palaces, museums and historic churches. It also boasts every imaginable shop and service.
The ski season at Igls runs from mid-December to the beginning of April with cheaper rates before Christmas and after New Year's Day. The most convenient way to get to Igls ski resort is to fly to Innsbruck's provincial airport and take the free bus to the village.
