Zauchensee doesn't have vast territory but it is quality. They run World Cup events here which says it all! Three of the 12 Peaks Trophy summits can be accessed from this small but appealing village. They are officially Peaks 10, 11 and 12 but it is a nice place to start your "Gipfel" journey, even if it is back to front.

Our day here was bright and sunny. We had glorious fast groomed runs to build up the confidence at the start of our trip with very few people around. There were also plenty of cool looking off piste options that had real potential in the right conditions but I didn't venture there on this day.

Shout out to the Garnhofhütte and their friendly staff for the super lunch and drinks. This place has a wonderful outdoor area in the front which is perfect when the sun is out, but be warned, it cools down very quickly in the village when the sun disappears in the waning afternoon. Not a problem here though, just head inside and delight in the quintessential beauty and warmness of an Austrian mountain restaurant in winter. Heaven indeed.

I feel like I didn't spend enough time here. It's not a big place but I blew it off too quickly............so there will have to be a next time!
See our video here