Cross-country Skiing: Trins (independent)

The charming village of Trins lies to the south of Innsbruck, in the heart of the Austrian Tyrol.

A popular destination among cross-country skiers, this picturesque village allows excellent access to four different skiing areas. To the west, two beautiful valleys, Gschnitztal and Obernbergtal, extend to the great peaks and glaciers of the Stubai Alps, whilst a third valley, Schmirntal, rises east into the Zillertal Alps.

A fourth skiing location is found at Mariawaldrast, a unique mountain location combining high-altitude skiing and a former mediaeval Servite monastery. Here there is a welcoming caf? where you may well be served by the last remaining monk! On this holiday you can ski in all four valleys at your own pace, exploring meadows, woods, quiet villages and working farms.

The area also boasts 25km of downhill slopes, ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers.

There are many options for winter walking or snowshoeing and why not experience one of the exciting natural toboggan runs in the Wipptal Valley? Equipped with floodlights, some of the tracks can be used both day and night. As an excursion, Innsbruck, with its varied architecture and tempting caf?s is also easily reached from Trins.