Winter transforms Tirol’s landscape. Craggy mountains are wrapped in a thick layer of snow. Temperatures plunge in the region’s ravines and canyons. Mighty waterfalls turn into skyscrapers of ice. Here are five natural wonders which take on a totally different atmosphere in the winter months.

Cross-country skiing on Friday, alpine skiing on Saturday, tobogganing on Sunday – sounds like your kind of thing? Most places in Tirol offer all these winter sports and more, but there are a few villages whose local traditions or spectacular location make them just that little bit better than the rest. Here are our top five spots in the mountains for those who simply love winter sports.

Tirol's Christmas markets are a great place for hand-crafted products. Grab a mug of steaming-hot Glühwein and stroll from hut to hut for an insight into the region's long and proud handicraft tradition. We have put together five of the best items on offer – and where to find them.

Ibex, chamois, vulture, eagle and marmot – those are the five animals every visitor to Tirol would like to catch a glimpse of.  We have talked to the rangers in the region's nature parks to discover the best walks and hikes with a good chance of seeing these wonderful creatures.

Dumplings are a core part of the Tirolean diet. While centuries ago there were just a few different varieties, these days you will find all manner of weird and wonderful creations. Here are our top five dumplings you have to try next time you are in Tirol.

We asked international couples about the role the mountains have played in their relationship.

Five eco-friendly activities trending right now - with almost zero carbon footprint.

Vegetarian, flexitarian – or just fancy something different? Eating out in Tirol doesn't have to be a meat-fest. Throughout the region there are plenty of huts, guesthouses and restaurants with a wide range of vegetarian dishes prepared using local organic produce. Here is our guide to meat-free dining in Tirol.

The closest most of us come to life on the farm is buying a bunch of carrots from the friendly lady at the market on Saturday morning. However, here in Tirol there are a number of working farms which invite visitors to muck in, get their hands dirty and learn what life is really like working the land in this region of mountains and valleys. Here are our top tips for farmyard holidays in the Heart of the Alps.