Need a last hurrah in the Alpine snow? Head to Sölden, Austria, and other villages in the Ötztal Valley this weekend.
The Maxxx Mountain Winter Final, through Sunday, on the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers, features live entertainment on several stages, ski and snowboard equipment tests, snowmobile and snow-grooming machine rides, parties and more.
A glacier waterslide contest for skiers vying to complete the longest flying jump into a water-filled trench is sure to be a highlight Saturday. Mountain bikers might prefer to check out the nearby village of Haiming for the forest cross-races Saturday at 9:30 a.m.
Harley Davidson enthusiasts can take part in the new event “Harley & Snow,” which offers group rides along mountainous roads winding through a glacial landscape. Event packages including two nights of accommodation, a welcome drink and side program start at 129 euros; packages including a ski pass valid from noon Saturday also are available. Learn more at www.oetztal.com.
Another Ötztal Valley destination is Area 47, a thrill-seeker’s outdoor playground. To celebrate the opening weekend of the summer, Area 47 puts on concerts, DJs, and attempts to set world records Saturday. A splash-diving record, featuring jumps from staggering heights, takes place at 6 p.m. in the water area, while a Harlem Shake record attempt in the Ötztal dome is at 9 p.m.
Entry is free to both events. Learn more at www.area47.at.
