Kitzbuhel

Kitzbühel is indisputably one of Austria's most fashionable winter resorts, although the town boasts a busy summer season as well. "Kitz" offers warm-season visitors a hefty program of hiking, cycling, golf, and lake swimming (at nearby Schwarzsee), along with outdoor concerts and plays. It also hosts the annual Austrian Open tennis tournament in July. In winter, many skiers are attracted by the famous Ski Safari—a carefully planned, clever combination of chairlifts, gondola lifts, draglifts, and runs that lets you ski for more than 145 km (91 miles) without having to walk a single foot. Kitzbühel is in perpetual motion and is busy December through mid-April, notably at the end of January for the famed Hahnenkamm World Cup downhill ski race. At any time during the season there's plenty to do, from sleigh rides to fancy-dress balls. And with parts of the town dating back to the 14th century, Kitzbühel is a scenic place to stay year-round. In summer, visitors are offered free guest cards, which provide free access or substantially reduced fees for various activities, such as tennis, riding, and golf.