Niederau - Wildschonau Sneeuwverwachting

Just returned from a New Year skiing holiday in Niederau and it was fantastic! (Note: this report is based on the near 100cm of snow that fell during the week! But there are plenty of snow cannons to keep the slopes topped up) Firstly, it's a small resort so don't go expecting the 3 Valleys, but the lifts and pistes are well maintained and the equipment is modern. We encountered few queues, perhaps a maximum of 10 minutes to board the gondola after lunch and the expected lines on the nursery slopes at the bottom. Not bad considering it was New Year! It's a resort best for beginners and those who want to hone their skills. That's not to say that there isn't a challenge for the more advanced but it is limited to just a couple of black runs and a couple of off-piste routes. There is a regular short bus ride to Auffach and beyond for those looking for more extensive skiing Our group used the 'red' ski school and they were very well looked after and progressed from complete beginners to skiing competently in just a couple of days. The instructors are fantastic with kids and very helpful and patient and lots of fun If I were to criticise the skiing at all, it's that the links at the top of the gondola are very flat and much walking/poling/skating ensued. Even the link from the top of the chair to the gondola can't be made in one go! But don't let that put you off, it's a good warm up! Accommodation is abundant and our hotel, the Sonnschein, was excellent. There are a few good bars clustered around the base of the gondola for apres and lunches and the 'legendary' Cave Bar has live bands Overall, it's a great resort, the locals are friendly and the skiing is excellent (again helped by all that fresh stuff!). If you are beginners or inters looking to improve, this resort won't let you down!