The friendly resort Merano combines the amenities of a 35,000 people city with the idyll of the surrounding South Tyrolean mountains. In this small Alpine metropolis there is much on offer, even away from the pistes, e.g.: various shopping facilities, a quaint evening programme, winter hiking trails and a natural toboggan run. The "Therma Meran", designed by the star architect Matteo Thun, pampered its visitors with various indoor pools, a spacious sauna complex and various vitality areas. Empress Sissi had even selected Merano as one of her favourites. Today there is a statue in the ever-green gardens behind the summer promenade to remind one of the many visits of the Empress. In winter of course the main focus is "Off to the mountains!". The pistes are great and especially suited for families.