When To Go

When To Go

The physical geography of the Tirol makes it an especially ideal place in which to enjoy the outdoor life year-round. Ski-crazy travelers descend on the resorts during the winter months; in summer, when the mountains are awash with wildflowers, camping tents spring up like mushrooms in the valleys as hikers, spelunkers, mountain bikers, and climbers take advantage of the palatial peaks. The annual Tyrolean calendar is packed with special events: the famous Schemenlaufen, a procession of carved wooden masks, held in February in Imst; the Fasching balls, which reach their peak at the end of February; the Hahnenkamm ski race and curling competition held in winter in Kitzbühel; the world-famous Gauder Fest at Zell am Ziller during the first weekend in May; the castle concerts and music and dance festivals in summer, primarily in Kufstein and Innsbruck; and the many village harvest festivals in the fall throughout Tirol. For a rundown of Tirol's cultural venues and events, visit www.culture.tirol.at.