Early December through late March is the ski season. A few ski resorts maintain their lifts operational all year on glaciers, mostly near the Italian border. The finest skiing conditions are in mid-January, when it is the coldest of the year. Late February is ideal for sunbathers. During the summer months, there are many opportunities to hike or climb in the Alps. Some of the most popular activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, and trail running. The Austrian Alps provide a range of challenging outdoor activities for all ages and abilities. For information on safe practices and equipment, visit the American Alpine Institute at http://wwwi.alpineinstitute.org. Austria has some of the best skiing in Europe. It has more than 500 km of marked trails served by 36 resorts. Most areas have hotels with restaurants that serve traditional dishes like goulash, roasts, and pasta. If you're looking to sample the local cuisine, be sure to try schnitzel (breaded pork cutlet) and schweinsteak (boiled beef steak). The culture of Austria is unique. It has elegant cities, historic sites, and breathtaking scenery. Vienna's famous opera house is one of the largest in the world and has been hosting singers and dancers since 1829.