Schladming is a name which instantly brings to mind images of World Cup downhill racing in many skiers' minds . The leading resort in the Steiermark area of Austria and of the Dachstein area of the Tauern mountains is a very well established regional centre, as well as being the centre of the Dachstein Ski area. Schladming was made a town in 1322 and its town square was pedestrianised 672 years later in 1997. A World Cup Downhill was first staged here in 1973 and the Alpine Skiing World Championships in 1892. Today Schladming is a small lively town with a good selection of shops, bars, restaurants and hotels. It has many interesting and picturesque old buildings which add to the ambience of the place.
