Axamer Lizum, Austria

Axamer Lizum may not be the biggest of resorts, nor is it the chosen resort for holiday package tour operators, and yes the ski press may slag the place off, but then what would that clueless lot know. Built in 1964 for the winter Olympics, Axams is a full-on no nonsense great natural freeride-freestyle snowboarder's paradise.

The resort has everything you could possible ask for and although not extensive, the terrain in places is as natural as it gets with top-to-bottom riding from Axams to Gotzens possible when snow permits. Axams may be a small place but don't be fooled Axamer Lizum, is the playground for the Innsbruck crowd that includes Max Plotzeneder and top racer Christine Rauter - and it's easy to see why. Axams is a quiet place, free of holiday ski crowds (although weekends are very busy), big on air and short on lift queues.

Having twice hosted Olympic disciplines, the runs are obviously of a decent standard, with something to suit all. Freeriders and freestylers are going to get the best out of the slopes, with loads of great hits, big banks, and gullies that form natural pipes to drop in and out of and tight trees to weave through. The atmosphere on the slopes is really cool, and on certain days snowboarders actually out-number skiers, especially when competitions are on.

New for season

new restaurant in 2004 and expanded terrain park. Nothing major planned for this season.

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Distances are in a direct straight line, and take no account of roads. For driving instructions between resorts take a look at the travel page

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