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The nine villages of Soll sit in the heart of the
Kitzbuheler Alps. They form the Ski Welt - the biggest circuit in Austria
Soll is relatively quaint, with a lively nightlife. The
downside is that it's tiresome reaching the slopes. You have to take the
shuttle-bus or drive since it's at the least a 15-minute walk - no fun if you
are dragging equipment, though you could leave your skis overnight at the
bottom area. Similarly, because of the low altitude, the snow record is mixed.
After taking the beginning stage of the gondola,
intermediates and advanced beginners may want to pause at Hochsoll to savor a
range of friendly, sunny slopes that spread in every direction. The real
gateway to the skiing is attained through the next stage to Hohe Salve, at
1,830m, which is the highest point in the Ski Welt region. Featuring steep
slopes on most sides, advanced skiers will be charged while lower intermediates
might be alarmed. As it turns out, these runs are one of the hardest they're
probably going to come across all day. To launch yourself on the Ski Welt tour,
you must manage a steep and occasionally icy run. Turn right for Kalbersalve,
the beguiling resort of Hopfgarten and Rigi; a chance to relish the wonderful
gladed pistes all the way down to Soll's other neighbor, Itter. If you turn
left, you'll be headed for the far end of the circuit: Scheffau, Ellmau and
Going, retracing your steps or maybe returning via Brixen. To enjoy the circuit
without negotiating the stiff Hohe Salve runs, you may take the cable-car from
Hochsoll.
The Ski Welt region is dotted with restaurants - 73 all in
all. The Stocklalm is a transformed cowshed near Hochsoll that gives diners the
chance to witness traditional bread-baking and cheese-making. Other nearby huts
offering simple but good mountain fare include the Grundlalm.