Alpbach (Alpbachtal) is almost exactly as the brochures describe it. Having won Austria's prettiest village on many occasions, I can easily say it definitley deserves this accolade. It's situated almost at the head of the valley surrounded by towering snowy peaks. You can see the ski area from almost every angle in the village. Asside from the gorgeous views the skiing is a real treat. For anyone classed as an intermediate the Wiedersbergerhorn mountain should have enough runs to keep you happy for a week's stay. Those who are first timers needn't worry as the nursery slopes are in the centre of the village (a real bonus for anyone who hasn't got used to walking in ski boots yet). As for experts, black runs are few and far between but saying that the off-piste is the best I've experienced so far. The 2000 area offers you almost a whole ungroomed mountain begging to be carved up! It has the lot: high glade skiing, challenging coulouirs and superb tree skiing. Personally, I'd recommend having one of the excellent and friendly ski intsructors show you the best bits (and all the hidden powder!). As for the village, don't expect rowdy bars and a centre as such. It's situated along a very quiet single road. Most people tend to flock to the 'Post Alm' after a day on the pistes which is just a short walk from nearly every hotel and has some of the best pizza I've ever had. The service all over Alpbach is faultless and the people always grace you with a smile. As for hotels, we stayed at the Alpbacherhof which seemed to be the main and largest hotel. As for everywhere we've stayed in Austria, the hotel was always spotless and the food was never repeated and came well presented. As an introduction to skiing, Alpbach offers almost everything and for those with experience the ski area is large enough to keep you happy.
Inneralpbach is set at the head of the valley about a ten minute drive from Alpbach and is connected by the skiing area. Inneralpbach consists of mainly hotels, so a strole in the evening is not really an option.