Landhaus Osborne

Skiing

Landhaus Osborne and Obertraun are the perfect bases for exploring this area of outstanding natural beauty characterised by the Dachstein mountain range. The region provides a real adventure for downhill and cross country skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. For those who prefer more gentle snow shoe hiking, Obertraun has plenty to offer.

Never heard of the ski resorts of Krippenstein and Dachstein West? That is because they are one of Austria's the best kept secrets.

The Krippenstein Freeride Arena (2100 metres), which is only a 3 minute drive from Landhaus Osborne, is a magnet for those who enjoy winter sports in unspoilt natural surroundings and is accessible via the recently modernised Dachsteinbahn cable car system. There are 11 km of prepared ski piste from the summit down to the valley, otherwise you can try out some off-piste skiing. Our younger guests will have hours of fun at the recently established "Krippi-Park".

Down in the valley there is a wonderful 14 km long cross- country ski trail which passes through the "Koppenwinkel", a Nature Preservation Area renowned for its beauty. Skating is now possible on the trail too, thanks to modern technology.

For families, beginners and intermediates, then the nearby area of Dachstein West is the place to head for and is Upper Austria's largest skiing region. This is a family-friendly and down-to-earth, guaranteed snow and variety, modern and affordable: The Dachstein West skiing region has a special kind of charm. The aim here is not to be bigger, brighter and faster, but to be authentic and genuine. In the orchestra of alpine ski resorts, Dachstein West stands out as a voice of its own. And the Dachstein West ski association means that the region has now grown to include not only the core resorts of Gosau, Russbach and Annaberg but also another seven ski resorts, all of which can be accessed with ski passes with a duration of 1.5 days or longer.

Within easy reach by car are over 200 kms of runs within the following resorts...

Dachstein West - Gosau, Russbach, Annaberg, Lungötz, Abtenau (152 km prepared runs - 15 minutes by car)
Loser (29 km prepared runs - 20 minutes by car)
Katrin-Alm, Bad Ischl (6 km prepared runs - 25 minutes by car)
Postalm Arena (20 km prepared runs - 40 minutes by car)
Feuerkogel - Ebensee (12 kms prepared runs, 40 minutes by car)
plus many more....

Snow shoe hiking on the Krippenstein

High up in the mountains, with the mighty Dachstein massif as back drop, snow shoe hiking is a wonderful, unforgettable experience.

Relax afterwards and enjoy the friendly hospitality provided by the "Lodge am Krippenstein". This is a popular venue for skiers, snowboarders, free riders, tour groups, snow shoe hikers, those participating in a husky drawn sledge ride and those who simply love to be out in the mountains.

The Obertraun cross country ski trail - from Lake Hallstatt to the Koppenwinkel Natural Preservation Area.

Take the opportunity to try out that sport you have always wanted to, but perhaps have never had the time for. Here in Obertraun, all this is possible.

Our cross country ski trail is ideal for all levels of ability. Nature lovers will adore the idyllic Koppenwinkel area.

Snow flakes and open fires - pure romance.

Those who wish to escape from it all will enjoy one of the romantic winter walking trails around Obertraun. Beautiful scenery as far as the eye can see in a magical winter idyll. Often the only sounds you will hear are your footsteps on the crisp snow beneath you.

Local Customs and traditions

Obertraun has a population of 750 who regularly get together to take part in popular events which have taken place for many years. These are special occasions where young people get together with the more elderly inhabitants of Obertraun, and celebrate local traditions together. One example is the "Gloecklerlauf" (Gloeckler Procession) which takes place on 5th January each year. Adults and children make bright, colourful hats which are shown off to the delighted audience as the participants pass through the village.

Krippenstein Dachstein Freeride Arena

Fantastic skiing at 2100 m above sea level!

The Krippenstein has been a popular ski destination for many years. It is ideal for advanced skiers too, with 30 km of off-piste skiing from the summit of the Krippenstein down to the valley.

Winter here on the Dachstein plateau is fun for all. There is a piste 11km long (1500 metres altitude) from the summit to the cable car terminus in the valley. The "Krippenstein Fun Park" is an exciting venue for snow boarders.

The "Krippi-Park" is ideal for children and adults who are learning to ski, and is an ideal place to build up confidence before attempting the higher, longer slopes.

Winter