The Vikings are coming! It's no joke as the ski slopes of Ischgl in Austria's Tirol are invaded by giant snow sculptures of Euro-favourite Vickie the Viking and her friends and enemies.  [caption id="attachment_749" align="aligncenter" width="358" caption="Vickie the Viking in Ischgl"]Vickie the Viking in Ischgl[/caption]

Ten pairs of skilled sculptors from all over the world took on the mightly task of crafting the cartoon characters from massive piles of snow in a five day challenge and their masterpieces now adorn the slopes to the delight of skiers and boarders. [caption id="attachment_750" align="aligncenter" width="358" caption="17th annual Shapes in White contest in Ischgl"]17th annual Shapes in White contest in Ischgl[/caption] This is the 17th annual Shapes in White contest and Vickie and co will linger on the slopes until the Spring thaw signals their retreat - which won't be until the beginning of May, as Ischgl enjoys a five month long snow-sure season from the end of November right to the first weekend in May. To view more photos of Vickie the Viking and friends, click here