INNSBRUCK
Area: Austria


Location:
In W Austria, in the heart of the Tyrol Province, 85 miles S of Munich (Germany), 100 miles SW of Salzburg. 3 miles NE of Innsbruck airport.

Telephone code from UK:
43 512

Website:
http://www.innsbruck-tourism.at

Position:
Innsbruck lies 1,883 feet above sea level, at the confluence of the rivers Inn and Sill; the Karwendel mountains lie to the N.

Description:
Innsbruck lies at the junction of the main historic route between Germany and Italy via the Brenner Pass, and so over the centuries has been a bone of contention between those two countries. Nevertheless, it has retained its own character and its allegiance to Austria, and in 1187 it became the capital of Tyrol Province, which it remains today. A compact city with a population of over 120,000, its historic old quarter contains narrow, arcaded streets, spires, sturdy towers and copper domes; fine frescoes and flamboyant stuccowork decorate the older buildings. The impressive Golden Roof made from gilded copper tiles over a medieval bay window dates to 1500. The town has splendid mountain views from almost every angle, while limited industry is confined to the outskirts. Alpine villas in lush gardens perch on the surrounding foothills. Tourists are consciously catered for, and there is overt exploitation of the quaint and special aspects of Tyrolean culture.

Suitability:
A wide array of winter sports attracts people of all ages and walks of life, but particularly Americans, Italians and French. It is suitable for all grades of skier.

Accommodation:
An extensive choice of hotels and pensions to suit all pockets, with a preponderance of 4-star establishments. Many offer inclusive ski packages.

Shopping:
Good selection of shops in the old quarter and on the Maria Theresienstrasse.

Entertainments:
Daytime: the region has five different ski-areas _ the highest with skiing at 7,761 feet _ and tuition for all levels. Other activities include ice-skating, tobogganing, swimming, tennis, squash and curling. There are also horse-drawn carriage rides, an Alpine zoo (unique within Europe) and city sightseeing. Nightlife: various discos and lively bars abound. A casino; "Tyrolean evenings" (performances of traditional songs and dances by men and women in local costume); concerts; theatre; opera; folk music.

Eating:
From McDonald's to gourmet restaurants, augmented by an abundant variety of cuisine from around the world.

Public-transport:
The city lies at the heart of an efficient national rail network with numerous intercity connections. Buses and trams serve the centre while outlying villages and towns are linked by regular regional services. A free ski-bus service travels between the different ski-areas, while a bus service for cross-country skiers operates once a day.

Local-excursions:
Full-day trips to: the Dolomites and S Tyrol. Bavarian royal castles, such as the neo-Gothic Hohenschwangau and the fantasy creation Neuschwanstein. The charming rococo-style Linderhof Castle. Oberammergau, a small, sedate town of craft and souvenir shops and cosy cafes. Half-day trips to: Lake Achen, with its castle; the crystal works in the town of Wattens. The picturesque Italian city of Bolzano.