Austrian spring skiing Alpine holidays

‘Firn’ Riding

Join us for 3 or 4 nights at the end of the season and enjoy our First Tracks ski & austrian spring skiing touring package. We’ll make sure you’re up and at ’em early to make the most of the spring snow – almost always better in the morning than the afternoon. Depending on the conditions you may be able to experience Austria’s wonderful ‘Firn Schnee’, which only happens at this time of the year as the overnight freeze begins to thaw off-piste. Hit it right and it’s the best, most consistent snow you’ll ever find.

Here’s a nice quote from ‘A complete guide to Alpine Ski Touring’ book by Henry Branigan:

Skiing Firn: “Next to skiing powder, this is probably the best loved snow condition to ski on. Cruising turns with very little effort or energy output, on a firn base with about one inch of firn (just when the sun begins to melt the snow-sometimes called spring snow). This can be as good as the best piste conditions, characterised by smooth vertical movement and flowing shift of weight, accompanied by a light pole plant action. The ski position is whatever suits the skier.”

But at this time of year, anything can happen and you’re definitely not restricted to melting snow. Last season we had a group who skied fresh powder in the morning and played 18 holes of golf in the afternoon. Now there’s an ambition not many people have achieved! Here’s a video taken on that fateful morning:

Austrian spring skiing holiday package

For: Groups of 4 or more
Duration: 3 nights (Thursday to Sunday) or 4 nights (Sunday to Thursday)
When: March and April only (subject to availability)
Price: €280 per person* (flights, meals and car hire not included, except where stated)