Best of Winter in Germany and Austria — get ready for the snow!

The days are getting shorter, the leaves are changing colour and nature is gradually readying itself for the cold season. Your legs are already tingling and you can't wait to finally trudge through knee-high snow again, race down steep slopes and actively experience the winter mountain world, right?

We know the feeling only too well. That's why, in this Collection, we've created seven winter Tours in the German and Austrian Alps to inspire you for your next snow adventure – be it with snowshoes, touring skis or on the cross-country ski trail. So that it’s not too hard to choose an adventure from our Winter Wonderland routes, our ‘heroes’ reveal their favourite routes and reveal what makes them so unique.

If you are a fan of ski tours and like to really earn your descents, then you can follow Edi Huttegger on his route through the Grossarl Valley or try out Harald Hollwöger's favourite trail in the Ausseerland–Salzkammergut. Both promise you grand views and exhilarating descents. Or you can follow in the footsteps of Toni Palzer—one of the world's best ski mountaineers—through the Berchtesgaden region.

Do you prefer cross-country skiing to deep snow? Then former ski racer Regina Sterz has a tip for a fantastic route in Carinthia’s Hohe Tauern National Park. Are snowshoes your thing? You can explore the Karwendel Silver Region on Harry Prünster's favourite route or hike through the snowy Dachstein Salzkammergut on Betty Jehle's leisurely Tour. Deniz Göcen, a ranger in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park, reveals where you can enjoy the best views with your snowshoes in her region. As varied as the Tours are, they all await you with a magical winter landscape, fantastic views over the snow-covered peaks and lots of fun in the white stuff.

Our Best of Winter heroes show you the most beautiful corners away from the popular winter sports strongholds because we’re committed to gentle winter tourism. It’s an added bonus if you can leave the romantic landscape undisturbed. Our experts know where it's best to switch off. Always remember to check the avalanche danger before heading out on any route. Once done, all you need is to get your winter clothes and equipment together and check the weather. Then you can fully immerse yourself in the glittering, white mountain world and enjoy the best of winter. Who knows, you might even meet one of our heroes on their favourite route.