Baltic Outlook December 2018 | Page 108

SPECIAL / December A modern village of private houses in an exclusive countryside setting Fly to Munich € 109 ISCHGL, AUSTRIA from round trip Lifestyle metropolis of the Alps Together with the Swiss duty-free town of Samnaun, Ischgl forms the Silvretta Arena, which is one of the most environmentally friendly ski areas and the third-largest ski resort in the Austrian region of Tyrol. Ischgl is situated in the valley between the Silvretta and Verwall Alps, and its perfectly groomed slopes along with freeride runs are the reason why the town is so popular among winter sports enthusiasts. The resort has one of the longest slopes in Austria, the 11-kilometre Route Eleven from Greitspitze to the heart of Ischgl village. Tyrolean cuisine is another highlight here, and Ischgl is sometimes called the gourmet mecca of Tyrol. Fifteen mountain restaurants and huts offer a picture-perfect après-ski experience along with fine food that combines Alpine traditions and Mediterranean influence. Ischgl might also be on your ultimate ski holiday bucket list if you enjoy urban vibes and après-ski 106 / airBaltic.com with all its glitz and glam. Sometimes referred to as a snow-covered Ibiza, the town has a well- deserved reputation for being one of the best party spots in the Alps. The Silvretta Arena attracts holidaymakers looking to ski the slopes by day and hit the dance floor by night. In fact, skiers often go straight from the slopes to the bars, which has led to Ischgl banning skiers from wearing ski boots after 8 pm, with fines of up to 2000 euros. So, stop by your room to drop off your boots, and then head to Schatzi Bar to begin the night with some people-watching. The resort also hosts Top of the Mountain, one of the biggest open-air music events in the Alps. The opening and closing parties usually feature world- famous artists like Elton John, Bob Dylan, Sting, Bon Jovi, Robbie Williams, and Jason Derulo. In April 2019, Lenny Kravitz will perform at an altitude of 2320 metres and celebrate the season finale as part of the Top of the Mountain closing concert. bo A few facts: • Ischgl features 239 kilometers of sunny, snow-sure terrain that’s perfect for intermediates. • The town glitters with four- and five-star hotels – the biggest concentration in a single Austrian resort. • The Galtür ski resort is the quieter, more relaxed counterpart to Ischgl and is connected by shuttle bus to the nearby party mecca. For more information: ischgl.com HOUSES FOR SALE / HOUSES FOR RENT / JONATHAN SPA HOTEL Cēsis Rīga Amatciems 1h drive from Rīga An ecologically-friendly environment, a healthful climate, and peaceful rec- reation next to the woods and water. Each plot has connections to electricity, a centralised fresh water system, sewage treatment, and optical fibre cables for broadband internet (1Gbit/s). Street lighting, security and video surveillance ensured 24/7. Contact us: +371 2917 6436 / [email protected] / www.amatciems.lv