Economy Of Sölden
Sölden is an Ötztal valley Tyrol, Austria, municipality. Its energetic après-ski scene and winter sports—especially skiing and snowboarding—are what most people know about it. In summer, Sölden does, however, also present a range of attractions and activities including hiking, biking, climbing, and visiting the adjacent glaciers. With most of Sölden’s income and employment derived from tourism, the town’s economy is essentially dependent on this industry.
Tourism In Sölden
The main economic aspect in the municipality of Sölden is tourism, particularly winter tourism. Summer travel was as vital as winter travel until the 1970s; but, as the glaciers developed and the winter ski area grew, summer became ever less significant. One exception to this is the mountaineering village of Vent, which is part of the Sölden municipality and where summer tourism still is rather significant. Attempts have also been undertaken in Sölden and Obergurgl to revive the dying summer tourism since the turn of the millennium. Other significant economic considerations include some craft and service companies, albeit their main reliance is on winter tourism.
For years Sölden has had the most overnight stays in Austria. Sölden slept 2,577,569 nights in 2019 with 17,328 beds.
Attractive natural and cultural elements including Sölden’s alpine scenery, glaciers, traditional architecture, events and celebrations define his travel business. Sölden also gains from its position in the Ötztal valley, which provides simple access to other well-known sites including the Ötzi village, a museum honoring the well-known mummified man from the Copper Age, and Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol. Sölden’s well-developed infrastructure—which includes its cable cars, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues—helps to support his travel business as well.
Tourist infrastructure in winter
Comprising two glaciers (Rettenbachferner and Tiefenbachferner), Sölden’s ski area features 39 cable cars and 146 kilometers of slopes. Reaching an elevation of over 3,000 m in three locations (BIG 3), the ski area mostly consists of terrain at an elevation of over 2,000 m. Lift allows one to reach 3,244 m north of the Tiefenbachkogel, the highest point accessible.
Annually on the Rettenbach Glacier, an open-air theater and the FIS Ski World Cup take place; see Alpine Ski World Cup in Sölden.
The biggest manmade storage pond in Tyrol for snowmaking systems, the 17-meter-deep, 424,500 m³ “Panorama Lake,” went operational in 2010.
For all kinds of skiers and snowboarders, Sölden’s winter tourism presents a range of attractions and activities. Sölden offers fun parks, ski paths, and off-piste sections along with easy to difficult slopes. Sölden’s glaciers provide amazing views of the nearby mountains and let almost all year round skiing possible. Events and celebrations like the FIS Ski World Cup and the outdoor theater by Sölden add to the thrill and entertainment value of the winter months. Modern and efficient infrastructure including Sölden’s cable cars, snowmaking systems, and Panorama Lake helps to support her winter tourism as well.
Tourist infrastructure in summer
Mountain hiking and high alpine mountaineering define summer tourism in Sölden most of all. Apart from the several alpine pastures, sixteen high alpine refuges exist; most of them are part of German Alpine Club sections.
Glance at the infrastructure for tourists:
- 300 km of hiking trails
- Cycle paths (forest paths)
- Via ferrata, climbing garden
- Tennis court, indoor swimming pool
For adventure seekers and environmental enthusiasts, Sölden’s summer tourism presents a range of attractions and activities. From simple walks to difficult climbs, Sölden’s hiking paths span several degrees of difficulty and landscape. Sölden’s cycle routes let one bike across the valley and into the forest. Sölden’s via ferrata and climbing garden give chances for rock-based skill and bravery test. After a day of outdoor pursuits, Sölden’s tennis court and indoor swimming pool provide leisure and entertainment. Sölden’s summer tourism gains further advantage from its close proximity to the glaciers, which one can reach on foot or by cable car.
Brewery in Sölden
Producing the Sölsch brand using top-fermentation brewing, the Bäckelar Brewery is the sole brewery in Sölden. Made 1,400 meters above sea level, the beer is sold mostly in neighborhood bars.
One of the few breweries in the Alps using top-fermentation brewing, a technique that generates a lighter and more fruity beer, Sölden’s brewery is a special highlight of their economy. Both residents and visitors enjoy the Sölsch brand since it presents a unique and refreshing taste. Since the brewery bears the name of the Bäckelar farm, which dates back to the 16th century, it also helps to define Sölden’s cultural legacy. Through employment creation and ingredient procurement from surrounding farms, the brewery also boosts the local economy.
Agriculture in Sölden
Small-scale, essentially part-time cattle and sheep farming defines agriculture. Horse breeding, mostly of Haflingers, has grown in relevance recently.
Reflecting its rural and alpine background, Sölden’s agriculture is a small but traditional component of its economy. Adapted for the hard and cold environment, Sölden’s farmers raise milk, cheese, meat, and wool from their cattle. Raising Haflingers, a breed of mountain horses famed for their strength, endurance, and beauty, Sölden’s horse breeders are Since Sölden’s agriculture preserves the alpine meadows and stops soil erosion, it also helps to preserve the landscape and the biodiversity.
