From the first turns to summit bliss - we'll take you with us on our first ski touring camps in Dachstein West.
The idea? Great! The realisation? An adventure! And the result? Unforgettable! Our first ski touring camps - one for beginners, one for advanced skiers - were scheduled for the beginning of February. And if we can say one thing: We toured, sweated, laughed and marvelled.
There were the first cautious steps on touring skis, the sceptical examination of the skins (‘Will they really stay on?’) and the first hairpin bends, which were more reminiscent of a dance lesson than a ski tour. But also the first real summit moments, the feeling of freedom and the pride when initial uncertainty turns into a real highlight.
As soon as our expert Sepp had explained all the details of the equipment to the beginners - including the question of whether skins really hold up that well (spoiler: they do) - it was time to get down to business. First steps on touring skis, cautious attempts to slide downhill with skins and the basics of equipment. The participants had their work cut out for them - but hey, everyone's a rookie at some point!
And then? Off to the piste tour! Sepp accompanied us to the top, and if anyone here thought a piste tour was a leisurely stroll - far from it! Those who were chatting away beforehand were suddenly focussed on the next step. Believe us, we definitely know that metres in altitude are non-negotiable.



While the beginners were still working their way up the first few metres, the advanced skiers got straight down to business. No leisurely ascent, but a snappy ascent, smart handling of the equipment and - the highlight - hairpin bends to perfection (or at least with a lot of effort). We sweated, tinkered and tweaked until every single move was perfect.



It wasn't just the participants who learnt a lot during these two days - we also gained a lot of experience. From small details to big aha moments: We know exactly where we can make adjustments for next year. But hey, there's a first time for everything - and that's what makes it exciting!
Many thanks to all the motivated ski tourers, it was really fun with you. And above all, many thanks to Sepp for your tireless efforts to convince people of the sport of ski touring!