Bad Kleinkirchheim
This picturesque resort in the Carinthian Nockberge Mountain range, a region in the serene southern Austrian Alps, is cradled within a charming, tree-lined valley. This popular resort with 100km of pistes is proudly known as the birthplace of ski racing legend Franz Klammer, and where he honed his extraordinary skills.
However, this destination isn't just renowned for its skiing and Franz Klammer's legacy. It's equally famous for its rejuvenating spas, drawing many visitors who seek solace in the healing thermal waters and the invigorating mountain air. For your ski holiday to Bad Kleinkirchheim, accommodation options are abundant, including numerous traditional family-run hotels that enhance the resort's welcoming charm.
Bad Kleinkirchheim (known as BKK) and the neighbouring St. Oswald are home to a small community of just 1800 residents. The architecture in the area is a delightful blend of modern and traditional elements, combining the rustic charm of wooden huts with the sleek lines of more modern structures. The town is pleasantly spread out, and a leisurely stroll from one end to the other can take about an hour, allowing ample opportunities to explore charming cafes and shops along the way. Additionally, a free shuttle bus service conveniently connects you to all the major ski lifts, ensuring easy access to the slopes.
Reaching the idyllic location of Bad Kleinkirchheim in Carinthia is a breeze, with convenient links via Klagenfurt or Salzburg airports. Whether you're an avid skier or a spa enthusiast, this resort offers a delightful escape amidst the Alpine splendour of Austria.
The ski season in Bad Kleinkirchheim runs from December to early April and over 800 snow cannons compliment the excellent snow fall in the area.
The Skiing
Bad Kleinkirchheim boasts some of the finest skiing opportunities in the region, with an extensive network of over 100 kilometres of pistes that reach altitudes of up to 2055 meters. The area has a rich history of hosting the Alpine Skiing World Cup on multiple occasions which speaks to the exceptional quality and appeal of the skiing experiences offered in BKK.
Ski tour enthusiasts visiting the Bad Kleinkirchheim ski area will find themselves in their element. A range of ski tours, varying in difficulty levels, beckon you to explore the snow-covered mountain landscape that envelops the area. Among the favoured tours are those leading to the Mallnock and Falkert. Additionally, the region's highlight is the Nockberge-Trail, a must-try experience for ski touring enthusiasts. This selection of ski tours allows for a deeper immersion into the pristine, untouched winter wonderland that characterizes the Nockberge region.
There's a diverse array of winter sports and activities to explore beyond skiing. Throughout the season, the resort maintains paths for a variety of winter pastimes, including Nordic walking, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and snowshoeing. Snowshoe and hiking tours are led by national park guides, who offer insights into the region's mountain history, details about the local wildlife, and information about BKK's unique culture. This variety of winter activities ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their skiing preferences.