The lustrous, winter wonderland snow of the Austrian Alps is a beguiling haven for the world’s leading skiers, and Kitzbühel’s Hahnenkamm Mountain Range is no exception. With its unforgiving steep and serpentine slopes, blind drops and daredevil jumps, skiers are propelled forward on its Streif, at speeds of 140kph. The severity of the terrain makes the Hahnenkamm World Cup Races the most harrowing experience of all time for professional skiers, demanding the finest technical skills and gliding talents from start to finish. It is no wonder that the event claims the title as the centre for alpine winter sports while merging a rare blend of adrenaline and alpine high fashion. Awash with a pulsating crowd of devoted followers to the ever-glamorous jet setter clique, there’s an electric festival atmosphere made more palpable by the drama and derring-do of the occasion. As the slopes begin to close, après-ski races forward, turning the electric atmosphere into a boisterous evening of shopping in designer boutiques, dancing at one of the many street parties and live music stages, while savouring the delectable regional cuisine. Après-ski and the luxurious hotels ensure leisure time is as exhilarating as the racing.

With more than 125 years of history, all who compete and attend the Hahnenkamm carry with them the legacy of those who came before. The weight of this legacy adds to the already momentous pressure on the stars as they know that to become the premier skier in history, they must win this single event. Skiers start their race at the Startschuss; 1,665 metres above sea level, plunging rapidly down the 160-metre-long slope to the renowned Mausefalle – ‘mousetrap’ – in just over eight seconds. Such speed leaves an intense feeling of awe mixed with dread and anxiety as the skiers travel far and wide with the horrifying knowledge that a millimetre the other way could result in drastic consequences. These extreme emotions only increase in the viewer as the skier takes his first and longest jump off of the Mausefalle, flying a distance of up to 80 metres. Perfect timing, 90° turns and meticulous landings are needed here and later at the Seidlamsprung jump to determine whether the skier is victorious or defeated as they approach the final run towards the finishing line. The venue erupts in exuberant applause from spectators and athletes alike as both experience overwhelming relief at the skier having made it down the hill.

For those enthusiasts in search of speed, there are thousands of metres along the slope where spectators are enveloped in the danger and frenzy of the action. For a more civilised distance from peril, the standing finishing area and the Grandstand – where hostesses serve snacks and beverages – allow guests exclusive and immediate views of the athletes pelting across the finishing line. With large screens capturing every moment of the races, split times and end results, spectators are lost to the outer world, having been entirely mesmerized by the proceedings of the tournament. Here, one can find the roaring, zealous fans that attend the race each year as a sort of devoted pilgrimage.

The Zone, however, is a more relaxed environment being a cornered off section of the finishing area. While there is limited access here, one can delight in the skiing with ample standing room and first-rate service of food and beverages. However, the luxurious and decadent experience is provided by the VIP heated luxury tent known as The Kitz Race Club which has chandeliers, delicious breakfasts served during the slalom qualifications and tables full of A-list celebrities. The Kitz Race Club is organised by ex-ski racer Harti Weirather who utilises his extensive knowledge of the venue, its atmosphere and guests to deliver an all-rounded experience, from serving lobster to organising live entertainment. Every whim, need and desire of the guests is acted upon with the grace and charm often directed towards royalty.

All aforementioned viewing areas are perfect for witnessing the award ceremony where thousands of spectator’s cheer, swing their beer and wave flags at the newly crowned champion. The noise from Hit Radio Ö3 and riot of colours blend effortlessly into the background as the dazzling firework display marks the beginning of the Après-ski!

Kitzbühel is the reigning monarch of après and its vibrant nightlife challenges the most frequent and habitual partygoer. On Friday the most legendary party in the Hahnenkamm race, the White Sausage Party, adds a touch of intrigue to the night’s proceedings. If guests can get their hands on one of the 2,500 coveted tickets, they’re in for a whirlwind evening of dancing to traditional music in true Tyrolean style. As Saturday night commences, the festivities transfer to The Londoner where the winner of the downhill race wildly serves from behind the bar drinks to all present. After the Hahnenkamm race itself, many other racers spend their night drinking and dancing here into the early hours with their most ardent supporters. However, for a more opulent and traditional conclusion to the Hahnenkamm guests should experience Rosis schnitzel party where they will be treated to delicious Austrian dishes. For another equally delicious eatery and sumptuous lodgings, one must venture to a five-start former hunting lodge, the Schloss Lebenberg. In addition, the Weisses Roessl features an outstanding two-story Cheval Blanc Spa that offers treatments from the Far East. Both hotels provide discreet and exceptional service, award-winning culinary treats and atmospheric wine cellars, making them the perfect feel-good scene to end the Hahnenkamm Races and thrilling après-ski.

Legendary for its throngs of high-end spectators, world-class after parties and energetic atmosphere, the Hahnenkamm event far exceeds any other skiing competition. The skiing event itself is the world’s most notorious and perilous downhill racecourse that evokes fear and unease both in the skier and spectator. And yet, there’s an effervescent vibe driving all towards awarding the skier who passed the test of courage and determination, as the deserving winner and the world’s premier skier.