I went with my wife (a non-skier) in mid January. The weather and snow condition improved throughout the week. By the final day it was possible to ski from top (2030m) to bottom at 720m. We stayed at a hotel 500m from the main gondola. So, by taking the first gondolas, I was able to be on the slopes by 8.45a. This worked well with the euro 28/day half day to 1p ticket. Then back to hotel for swim/sauna before an early dinner. Garmisch, which we preferred to the Partenkirchen half, is a very attractive town with large pedestrian area, lots of cafes, restaurants and shops. My wife found plenty to do and we noticed that the town attracts lots of non-skiers. Being in Germany, everything was well run but also very friendly. I should add that I am 70 but did chat with people of all ages and nationalities on and off the ski lifts. Finally, the 1936 Winter Olympics were help here. Its still possible to ski the downhill from then or go one better and try the currently World Cup course - Kandahar.