Ski in the Austrian Alps this spring

The Stubai Glacier in Austria is the location of the largest glacial ski resort in Austria, with 24 modern cableways and 110 kilometres of downhill runs.

Located southwest of Innsbruck, several summits of the Stubai range form part of Austria's border with Italy.

The glacier's firm snow means it is possible to ski there in the spring, as well as during the peak winter season.

A ski resort open from November to June, Stubai's slopes rise 1,750 to 3,333 metres with the highest peak at 3,507 metres.

Off the slopes, one of Stubai's special features is its dedicated childcare facility, which will make a family ski trip considerably easier.

There is also a weekly programme of mountain and ski guides at the resort, from safety information to a full-day ski tour to the Daunjoch glacier.

Holidaymakers eager for more winter sports can also try their hand at ice climbing on the 20-metre high tower in Gamsgarten. An introductory course is held at the tower every Friday.

For more information see www.stubaier-gletscher.com

There are other locations where it is possible to enjoy skiing in spring Austria, including Zell am See, in the Salzberg province.

Zell am See is a lakeside resort by a charming medieval town, which has a traffic-free centre.

The slopes provide skiing for all levels and there is shopping and evening entertainment in the form of cafes, wine bars and restaurants in the town.

Skiers heading to the nearby Kaprun resort can also access the 3,200-metre Kitzsteinhorn glacier.

At the resort there is a sports centre with a pool, snowboarding, ice-skating, bowling, and excursions including flights over the mountains.

Kaprun also has a small skating rink, indoor tennis, cross country skiing with floodlit tracks as well as other amenities, including a nightclub.

Obergurgl - Hochgurgl is another large resort where it is possible to ski in the spring.

The resort has 23 cableways, 111 kilometres of ski runs and nine kilometres of elevated cross country skiing track.

There is also a general driving ban at night at the resort, making it quiet and peaceful overnight.

Amenities include restaurants, shops and night clubs.

Snowboarding is allowed on open trails and massage, hot tub, jacuzzi and sauna facilities are available.

For more information on these resorts, including details of tour operators, see www.austria.infoXXX