THE FACTS ABOUT MAYRHOFEN

Austria

WHERE Archetypal Tyrolean mountain village, where zither, harp and accordion music is played by rugged mountain lads in leather breeches and damsels in traditional dirndl dresses. WHAT Part of the immense Zillertal region, with 12 resorts sharing a lift pass. Mayrhofen was the site of the first ski kindergarten in the Alps, and the resort still caters well for small children. WHY For year-round skiing on the Hintertux Glacier; lively atmosphere; high-standard chalets, apartments and hotels. Good for families, although high-season crowds can be a problem. HOW One hour's drive from Innsbruck airport, two from Munich. Alpenhotel Kramerwirt has panoramic views. Characterful Wirthaus zum Griena restaurant is in a 400-year-old building. www.mayrhofen.com