Day 67: Innsbruck, Austria … Rain, ski slopes and cow bells

Innsbruck, Austria

Heavy rain continued this morning in Innsbruck.  After a hearty Tyrolean breakfast buffet at the Hilton (great breads, jams, cheeses, meats, fruits, yogurts and muesli) we set out to explore the city despite the rain.   Our first stop was the tourist information office at the train station, where we bought 48-hour Innsbruck Cards (29 euros each) good for more attractions in the area.  

Between us we have one Patagonia rain slicker and one umbrella (bought quickly last night).  We boarded The Sightseer, a sightseeing and shuttle bus with commentary, and rode the entire route through Innsbruck.  Overview of the city complete, we are ready to explore, but it is wet and cold.  Despite three layers of t-shirts and sweaters, Janis needs a rain coat.  Luckily, we see jackets on sale at the Sporthaus Okay/InterSport store, and soon Janis is wearing a new green McKinley rainproof jacket. 

To take advantage of the sunshine, we boarded the J bus, and rode to the base of the Patscherkofel cable car. The Patscherkofel mountain is 2300 meters high and was the site of the 1976 winter Olympics downhill ski races and bobsled events.  Our Innsbruck card covers the lift tickets.   

 As you head up the cable car, you see amazing views of the Innsbruck valley.  Close to the top, we heard bells ringing and then we saw cows grazing.

Alpine cow