Why not Solden!? Critisism please!

Hi all

7 or 8 of us are gonna book a trip soon.

Having researched areas, I'm having difficulty figuring out why not to choose Solden. As far as I can tell...

- it's cheaper than France
- there's a fair sized ski area
- most importantly, it's seems to always have tonnes of snow!

we've been mayrhofen/zillertal a few times and enjoyed it, so...

...why shouldn't I choose Solden!?

I've also been looking at Les Menuires, Les Deux Alpes, Alpe d'Huez. Am I making a good choice?

Cheers

Potato x

Hey - if it suits you and your group go for it!

Hi Potato
If you are a bunch of testosterone-fuelled blokes who like a great night life, then Sölden is fantastic. I don't think it's so good for families or for timid skiers.

We had a similar discussion a couple of weeks ago, as Solden is reputed like Ischgl to be a lads resort with lots of drinking and a few lap dancing clubs to be found.
Personally I like Austria, a lot, and Solden is pretty much a full on place if you like apres ski.
I've been to Mayrhofen a number of times and love the fact theres so many places to choose from for a beer and food, but I am led to believe Solden is more upbeat and in your face, I may be wrong.

However, the piste map looks interesting, and theres a decent amount to go at, with Obergurgl on a 6 day lift pass included for a day as well. And its high which means better snow. I've been looking at it for this season, but not any decent deals come up, unless you want to go 7th Jan and ski total have their chalet on half price offer which looks really good!

Of the others you mentioned, France is a lot more low key at night in comparison, although ADH has some lively bars, and the ski area there is superb. I've looked at L2A a few times, but keep putting it to the back of the queue based on reports I've read regarding the skiing back to the village and the disappointing extent for intermediates.

I've done Val Thorens before, just above Les Menuires, but havent stopped in that village so can't comment, but I'd choose other places before the 3V.

Damm it I worte a really long winded reply and then it didn't post!

Quick summary then: Solden isn't as wild as it's made out to be don't know how it's got that rep really maybe rumours from those who've never been?

In general, I would say that the pros out-weigh the cons in IMHO. Ok, it may not be as picturesque as other ski resorts and the après ski not as wild as it's made out or on the scale of some other resorts, but all in all if skiing is top of your list of priorities I would say that Sölden has a lot to offer for many skiers. The fact that snow is guaranteed most (all) of the season by virtue of the glaciers is a big plus as is the proximity to Obergurgl and Hochgurgl if you like an odd away day. Doesn't attract huge crowds of Brits and all that goes with that.

It's all down to the individual and group in terms of wants and ability. I think compared to France if you want great skiing, affordable food drinks and actual nightlife then you'll love it.

Reasons not to go? I like other Austria resorts more, Ischgl, and St Anton in the main.

Cheers for the replies guys - totally helpful.

Never been to France, so finding a good deal probably means we'll go there. But otherwise looks like Solden is the one for us :)

I prefer quieter resorts, but as long as it's not Ibiza I should be ok.

potato wrote: as long as it's not Ibiza I should be ok.

I've heard Ibiza isn't snow sure?

OldAndy wrote:

potato wrote: as long as it's not Ibiza I should be ok.

I've heard Ibiza isn't snow sure?

Erm..... I do the sarcasm round here thanks ;-)