PHOTOS

VENUE DESCRIPTION

In the midst of the Hohe Tauern National Park, Bad Gastein basks in fresh mountain air and a fog-free setting at 1,000 metres above sea level.

Its very characteristic appearance, with beautiful buildings dating back to the "Belle Époque", blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings.

This is a spa town of world renown with a very special flair: relaxation and recreation in pure mountain air, combined with an ideal high-altitude climate and Gastein's thermal waters, guarantee you a vacation that is certain to exceed your highest expectations!

Dream yourself a winter's dream: Blue sky over mountain slopes covered deep in snow, wisps of smoke rising up from the chimney of a rustic ski lodge. The jingling of bells on a horse-drawn sleigh, soothing relaxation in hot spring waters. This dream has a name: Gastein!

Winter sports enthusiasts find their personal piece of paradise in the Gastein Valley. Whether you prefer skiing, boarding or carving, in the four ski areas of Gastein with 200 kilometres of slopes there is always snow to rely on.

No wonder that also the world's best riders are keen to come back every year. Over a long time now, Bad Gastein has raised the bar of organising both, enthralling head-to-head duels in the parallel slalom and breathtaking fights on the snowboard cross course, both located on the Buchebenskiwiese in the city centre.

Ever since 2001, the winter sport resort has staged World Cups every season - some of them under flood light - having earned the legendary status of a tradition-rich event venue, which also offers a lot of party time for riders and fans after the event.

In 2012, it's time again for the boardercross riders to show their skills after the past seasons featured the likes of the alpine athletes.