World-class skiing in the small Allgäu town of Ofterschwang

Winter sports activities in Ofterschwang at a glance:

• Skiing and snowboarding for both novices and pros
• Sledding
• Hiking
• Cross-country skiing

The skiing area at Ofterschwang offers 18 varied pistes for both novices and experienced skiers alike. It is also the place where the best skiers in the world put themselves to the test. Every year, the downhill run proves why these events are held here. Steep and with wide pistes for fast momentum, but long enough for amateur skiers to take a few breaks and enjoy the amazing views over the Iller valley.

The entire ski area is ideal for families and novices too, as the steeper parts of the world cup downhill run are easy to avoid and there are also two practice lifts. More experienced skiers will obviously want to try their hand at whizzing down the professional slope. Modern cable cars and chairlifts make getting to the top easy, while a snow machine ensures good coverage all season round.

When it's time for a well-earned break, head to the Alpe Blässe guesthouse. Located right next to the popular "Märchenwiese" slope, the rustic farmhouse offers all kinds of traditional local cuisine. Diners can watch the action on the piste while enjoying the sunshine. When it's time to get back on the slopes, it's just a two-minute journey to the valley station at Gunzesried.

But Ofterschwang has plenty more to offer than just skiing. There is a one-kilometre sled run that starts from the mountain station of the world cup express (sleds can be rented from the station). There is also a winter hiking route, with the 2.5-kilometre trek around the Ofterschwanger Horn taking around an hour and offering incredible views. Fans of cross-country skiing can look forward to 25 kilometres of perfectly prepared trails.

Summer

Ofterschwang is one of the five main mountain villages in the Oberallgäu region, alongside Balderschwang, Bolsterlang, Fischen and Obermaiselstein. Located at the foot of the Ofterschwanger Horn, it also has plenty of options for family trips in the warmer months too. If you'd like to explore the area while getting your pulse racing, why not try a downhill scooter ride? There are also cycle paths of varying difficulty and around 93 kilometres of hiking routes.

Getting there:Take the train to Sonthofen. With the free ski bus, it's about ten minutes to the ski area at Ofterschwang. The bus also runs during the summer. The shuttle bus between the skiing areas at Ofterschwang and Bolsterlang is also free.