For ski hire, The Ski Club of Great Britain recommended Intersport Fleiss in Bad Hofgastein and said that it offered a “good discount”. In reality, Intersport Fleiss only offered 10%, which I do not consider a good discount (especially as the full price for mid-level skis for six days, without boots, was EUR145.00). I could have got the skis via online rental for EUR104.00.

The staff at Intersport Fleiss were uncommunicative, surly and unhelpful. They did not offer ski insurance when I rented skis and did not provide any paperwork in respect of the rental. When I returned another day to try to exchange my skis for wider ones, they offered nothing useful. At that point I asked for insurance, which was provided. I paid the additional sum demanded but the shop did not provide any confirmatory documentation. Hence, (I subsequently realised) I had no knowledge of the cover provided or conditions of insurance (thankfully, the insurance was not needed).

My conclusion: Avoid Intersport Fleiss!