Apsely ski lodge in Austrian alps

6th of August 

Woke up feeling heavenly and refreshed from the stay In such a wonderful hotel!

We were rejuvenated with an incredible breakfast. Of course taking pictures like we had never seen something so delicious before. It sure was a nice break from the hostel breakfasts which include (American) toast and maybe cereal. 

Spent the morning just looking around Innsbruck. We were hoping it would be more of a ski town and it was actually a bigger city than I thought. Very gorgeous in the mountains though!

We figured tonight we should book a hotel at the apsely ski lodge that Andrew had originally booked for last night, since we wanted to be in the mountains. 

Went back to the five star hotel called and picked up our luggage and quickly booked the hostel on the wifi.

I wore my Wisconsin shirt today and I told Andrew that my day would be complete if I met someone who was from Wisconsin as well. I felt like the area we were in there were a lot of foreigners so I didn't think the chance was that great. I got on an elevator at the train station and a man was standing there wearing a Wisconsin shirt as well. I was so pumped! He was from Eau Claire! Then I got off the elevator and I met a family from Minnesota! I don't think others understand Wisconsin pride!  

After a train to Wörgl and a bus to Niederau, we finally made it to the Apsely ski lodge!!  

Literally the first thing we asked when we walked in was if we could book another night stay. It was Far more than what we expected slash were even hoping for! 

We checked in and were given a tour card to be able to go around the mountains and do activities for free (gondola rides up the mountains, swimming, tennis, and deals off of any sport or restaurant). We were able to stay another day thank goodness!!! 

A great man checked us in and his name was Jim. He offered to take us to the pool in his car because he saw how hot it was (still over 95 degrees). He co-owns the lodge with a good friend which they bought 2 years ago primarily for backpackers. They think every other type of traveler is dull and they wouldn't be competing with the bread and breakfasts around town.  

It is such a cozy lodge and it has such a homie ambiance!  

We went to the pool which was surrounded by mountains and it was so refreshing because we had been walking around with our packs most of the day. 

For dinner we went to a little pub with 2 Aussie girls who are staying in our room and then another Aussie who is working at the lodge for three months. I am really learning a lot about Australian culture since I am hanging out with so many Aussies. 

I feel so at home in this little town in the mountains. It is so peaceful and quiet and it kind of reminds me of Rhinelander.