The best Austrian ski resorts. Ski tours to Austria. The best ski resorts in Austria
Here you can ride until you lose all strength, without ever repeating the same descent in one day; there are trails here different levels complexity, and after-ski parties - for every taste and budget. None of the resorts is like the other; each has its own characteristics, its own charm and charm. We present to you the ten largest ski resorts in Austria for the 2013/2014 season.
The ski resort of Mayrhofen, so beloved and popular among Russian tourists, fully offers action & fun: the famous après-ski at Brück´n Stadl, where four glasses of beer will be poured in a record 11 seconds, and discos at Snowbombing. If we consider only the ski area above Mayrhofen, then in terms of its size and length of slopes it will take 10th place in Austria. Meanwhile, the elevation difference here is the largest in the top ten: the tracks are located between 620 m and 2,250 m above sea level. The length of the slopes prepared by snowcats is 133 km - from the simplest “blue” to the legendary “anthracite-black” Harakiri, the steepest slope in Austria, the slope of which reaches 78%. Anyone who has descended “Harakiri” is happy to buy a T-shirt in the nearest store with the inscription “I survived Harakiri”.
Mayrhofen
Facts:
– length of tracks: 133 km;
– the resort will appeal to apres-ski fans and active recreation and extreme sports enthusiasts.
Peculiarities:
– the steepest track in Austria and a 10-kilometer descent into the valley;
– new high-speed chairlifts with wind canopies and heated seats;
– VansPenkenPark in Mayrhofen;
– après-ski until 2 am.
Naked numbers:
– elevation difference - 1,880 m;
– especially for those who go to the mountain early in the morning: on certain days the lifts start working at seven in the morning.
How to get there:
By car: Autobahn A12, turn towards Zillertal, 30 km on B169 to Mayrhofen.
By train: any international train with a stop in Jenbach, where you need to change to the Zillertal train, which will take you to Mayrhofen for €7.
The most important thing about Sölden is guaranteed snow. Of all the ten largest ski regions in Austria, the ski area in Sölden is the highest - up to 3,330 m above sea level. However, going down won't cause any problems either - the snow cannons will take care of that. Some pistes end right at the après ski bars - you can relax after skiing in Sölden until the morning.
Facts:
– length of tracks: 150 km;
– ski pass cost: €48 per day;
– the resort will appeal to fans of noisy après-ski.
Peculiarities:
– guarantee of snow from October to May;
– après-ski parties at the Fire and Ice bar until 3 am;
– Alpine skiing World Cup track on the Rettenbach glacier, tracks with speed measurement and automatic video recording;
– Hannibal Show on the Rettenbach Glacier in April.
Naked numbers:
– one 3S lift (with three supporting cables), 7 gondola lifts, 16 chair lifts and 9 drag lifts;
– 80% of easy and medium difficulty trails;
– 28 km of “black” slopes and a 2-kilometer ski route.
How to get there:
By car: turn off the A12 motorway at the sign for Ötztal, 35 km along the B186 to Sölden.
By train: You will have to make a lot of transfers to get to Ötztal station. Departures from the station every hour regular bus, the journey to Sölden takes 90 minutes.
Kitzbühel is one of the legendary and famous ski resorts in the Alps. This year marks the 120th anniversary of the first ski descent from the Kitzbüheler Horn. No less legendary are the races from Hahnenkamm - the Alpine Ski World Cup competitions on the Streif downhill course, one of the most difficult and dangerous. Kitzbühel is only 125 km from international airport in Munich and 80 km from Salzburg Airport. The network of pistes and lifts on the surrounding slopes starts at an altitude of about 2,000 m above sea level.
Kitzbühel
Facts:
– length of tracks: 170 km;
– ski pass cost: €47 per day;
– the resort is most suitable for good skiers and food lovers.
Peculiarities:
– in January, during the World Cup stage (from January 21 to 26, 2014), not only the elite of alpine skiing meets here, but also the cream of society, and not only Austrian;
– Streif downhill track with a maximum slope of 85%;
– many après-ski points, as well as gourmet restaurants;
– for lovers of ski touring and off-piste skiing - 230 km² of Kitzbühel mountain space.
Naked numbers:
– 51 lifts;
– 32 km of marked but not prepared slopes (ski-route).
How to get there:
By car: Autobahn A8 in the direction of Salzburg, turn towards Kufstein, exit the autobahn at the Kufstein Süd sign, highway B178 in the direction of St. Johann in Tirol, highway B161 towards Kitzbühel. From Munich - 2 hours, from Salzburg - 1 hour 40 minutes.
By train: a couple of transfers from Munich, the lower station of the Hahnenkamm cable car is three minutes from the station.
Sports, shows, après-ski parties, concerts of world pop-rock celebrities: the most interesting thing in Ischgl will, of course, be for young people. A huge expanse of sunny slopes, a wide network of prepared trails and endless opportunities for freeride.
Facts:
– length of tracks: 238 km;
– ski pass cost: €43.50 per day in high season.
Peculiarities:
– concerts of world rock stars;
– snow parks and mountain huts next to the slopes;
– good opportunities for freeride and guarantee of snow throughout the season.
Naked numbers:
– highest point the resort is located at an altitude of 2,872 m;
– 43 lifts;
– 16% of the tracks are “blue”, 65% “red” and 19% “black”.
How to get there:
By car: from Innsbruck along the Arlbergstrasse, turn at the sign for Pians, then 20 km along Silvrettastrasse B188 in the direction of Ischgl.
Brixental
1. Wilder Kaiser/Brixental
And finally, the largest ski area in Austria - ski world Wilder Kaiser/Brixental. In terms of the total length of prepared trails, this region ranks 9th in Europe. It is unlikely that anyone is able to travel around all 279 km of Brixental slopes in one day. Despite the relatively low altitudes, it’s still worth going here - especially since it’s one of the best in terms of transport accessibility resorts in the Alps.
Facts:
– length of tracks: 279 km;
– ski pass cost: €44 euros per day in high season;
– the resort is ideal for fans of so-called cruise skiing, snowboarders and those who haven’t skied all day.
Peculiarities:
– the largest day and night ski area in Austria;
– 48% of “blue” slopes and only 6% of “black” slopes;
– perfect resort for snowboarders - there are practically no long gentle slopes and flat traverses here, but there are several snow parks.
Naked numbers:
– 91 cable car;
– more than 70 mountain restaurants, cafes and après-ski bars;
– Alpeniglu® Dorf - igloo village with igloo restaurant, bar, ice sculpture exhibition and ice chapel;
– three fan parks, one track with video recording, SkiWelt Chill Areas with free Internet access;
– three night sled runs (until 2 a.m.);
– The 13-kilometer illuminated ski track is the longest in Austria.
How to get there:
By car: from Munich on the autobahn through Rosenheim, turn to Kufstein Süd or Wörgl Ost, then almost all SkiWelt centers are accessible along the new highway.
By train: the nearest station is in Hopfgarten. You can get here in one night, for example, from Northern Germany on the Schnee-Express. From Munich or Vienna - take EuroCity trains to Wörgl, change to local railway, which will take you to the lower cable car station in Hopfgarten in 10 minutes.
Holidays in the ski resorts of Austria: St. Anton, Lech, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Bad Gastein.
The Alps occupy most of the area of Austria, so the country is very popular among fans of alpine skiing. The country's ski centers are mostly small, traditional ski villages, rather than large modern complexes. Number Austrian resorts It’s amazing - there are about a thousand of them in the country, so everyone will be able to find something to suit their taste.
Most of the ski centers here are of medium altitude, suitable for both intermediate athletes and professionals. There are high slopes in the province of Tyrol, where the most famous ski resorts in Austria are concentrated: St. Anton and Lech. Another famous ski resort, Mayrhofen, is located in the Zillertal valley, east of Tyrol. There are also unique resorts, which welcome guests both in cold winter and hot summer are Zell am See and Bad Gastein.
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Sant Anton
The resort of Sant Anton is famous for its excellent infrastructure, challenging professional trails and enchanting alpine landscapes. The fact that the resort hosted the Alpine Ski World Championships in 2001 speaks for itself. The season here lasts from December to March. The 260 km long trails are very well maintained and there is a modern well-functioning lift system. The peak of Falluga-Grat (2660 m) attracts professionals with the most difficult slopes and slopes, the snow on which is not specially leveled, which makes skiing more exciting. For beginner athletes, the slope in Galzig is more suitable, where there is a ski school and rental of the necessary equipment. Since the Sant Anton resort is well known among skiers, it is recommended to book a hotel room here in advance. On the territory of the ski center there is an indoor tennis court and a cinema, as well as many restaurants and discos. The closest airport to Sant Anton is only a hundred kilometers from the village - in Innsbruck.
Lech
Lech is very prestigious resort, which is known for its special microclimate that helps maintain ideal snow conditions throughout the skiing season. The highest level of service at the resort attracts representatives of high society to spend a winter holiday with health benefits and in conditions maximum comfort. 260 km of trails of varying difficulty allow skiers of any level to feel at ease. There is even a special children's track with the most gentle slope possible. For snowboarders there is a half-pipe and a special park. If you are tired of skiing, you can try yourself in paragliding and get a lot of new sensations. Thanks to a well-thought-out organization, the lift system in the Lech resort operates without queues. Lech is a less noisy village than Sant Anton, so it is more suitable for a quiet family vacation and mature guests. But this does not mean that the resort can be boring: more than 50 restaurants, luxurious bars, a swimming pool and an ice skating rink are always at the service of vacationers. The best way to get to the resort is by train or bus from Innsbruck.
Mayrhofen
Trails large resort Mayrhofen is located on the slopes of two mountains, which are connected by a cable car built in 2007. Mayrhofen is very popular with beginners, and this is understandable: soft slopes and good schools do their job. In addition, après-ski youth entertainment is widely represented here: fashionable nightclubs and modern discos, noisy bars and restaurants, cinemas and theatrical performances.
Zell am See
The resort of Zell am See is located on the shore of the lake. Along with the neighboring resort of Kaprun, Zell am See is part of the special "Sports Europe" district, which welcomes guests from all year round different countries who want to improve their skills in a particular sport. A distinctive feature of this center is a sufficient number of short slopes, on which it is very convenient to hone your skiing skills. The resort employs 10 ski schools European level and several kindergartens where carnivals and torchlight processions are regularly held. Due to the fact that the town was founded in the Middle Ages, it boasts beautiful old houses and shops.
Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is a resort located near Salzburg. Given ski center hosts the World Cup, so the quality of the tracks here exceeds expectations. For snowboarders, the Gastein Snowboard Park and halfpipe are built here, and there is also a boardercross track. In addition to the ski resort, Bad Gastein is famous for its spa center, so everything in the city is subordinated to a healthy lifestyle: prices for nightlife are especially high. Therefore, many tourists combine healthy sports with have a pleasant holiday in a bath or sauna. Plus, the resort has thermal springs, the water of which is rich in radon.
Austrians like to say: “We don’t talk about snow, we guarantee it!” Find out about the most popular ski resorts in Austria, climate characteristics, ski season, pistes, prices for ski passes, equipment rentals and reviews from tourists.
Most of Austria is covered by spurs of the Alps. Winter sports are so popular in the country that there are about 1,000 ski centers. There are plenty to choose from! The Austrians prefer to develop small ski centers, and small traditional resort villages. Most of them are located in the middle mountains. The best ski resorts Austria are located in Tyrol.
Exchange rate: 1 euro ≈ 84 RUB.
Climate and weather
The country lies in the continental climate zone, so in winter the ski resorts in Austria are cool. The higher it is, the colder it is: for every 100 m the thermometer drops by 0.5°C. in winter average temperature air -10°C. For mountainous area Heavy snowfall is typical.
Skiing season. The ski season continues in the winter resorts of Austria from December to late March - mid-April when the snow on the slopes begins to actively melt. Highly located glaciers, such as the Dachstein Glacier (2700 m), are skied all year round. Most tourists try to come to winter resorts around Christmas in order to combine a holiday in the mountains with trips to the bright Christmas markets.
Ski resorts on the map of Austria
The best ski resorts in Austria
Identify the leader among Austrian centers winter holidays Even a seasoned expert will not undertake it. All of them are in picturesque places and are famous for their comfort. Ski resorts in Austria have first-class hotels, professional slope maintenance and training centers for beginners. All you have to do is find something you like!
Schladming
The list of the most popular ski resorts in Austria includes a winter recreation center in the Dachstein mountains. The resort, 90 km from Salzburg, began to develop in late XIX century, and today has turned into a pleasant place for youth hangouts and off-piste skiing. There is a lot of snow in the mountains, so the season lasts until mid-April.
Trails. Of the 190 km of descents, 60 km are easy routes, and 110 km are moderate routes. There are 12 trails on the Dachstein Glacier. There is a snow park and a large area for virgin snow lovers. Most skiers ride on the Hochwurzen and Planai elephants. In these places there is the most difficult black track in the region, where World Cup stages and night slalom are held. The toboggan route is 7 km long.
Prices. A day ski pass for an adult costs 53.5€, for a student - 40€, and for a child - 27€. Renting a ski or snowboard kit for a day costs 21.5-32.4 € for adults and 10.8-16.2 € for a child. Sled rental - 7€.
Reviews. For fans alpine skiing I like that the resort has many slopes through the forest and long trails that lead from the top to the foot of the mountains. Near the ski areas there are great opportunities for après-ski: bars, discos, restaurants, brand shopping, massage, saunas and spas.
Mayrhofen
The best ski resorts in Austria include a large winter recreation center located 65 km from Innsbruck. This is a prestigious resort business card which is considered the famous narrow-gauge railway. There is a lot of après-ski entertainment for young people and the steepest slope in the country, Harakiri, with an inclination angle of 78%.
Trails. The total length is 136 km, and in the area surrounding the resort - 550 km. The ski area covers slopes from 630 to 2500 m, and is served by 57 lifts. Trails for beginners stretch for 40 km. The longest route is 10 km.
Prices. A day ski pass for adults costs 53.5 €, for youth - 42.5 €, for children - 24 €. Renting a ski set for an adult for a day costs 32 €, for a child - 18 €. Helmet rental costs 4€, and a snowboard kit costs 26€.
Reviews. Mayrhofen is considered perhaps the best ski resort in Austria for beginners. Beginners have a lot of fun on the soft slopes and can always get training from experienced instructors. Tourists love the opportunity to do active species recreation - for example, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are popular. There is a spacious ice skating rink on Waldbadstraße. The resort also has a 7.5 km long toboggan run.
Sölden
Sölden, one of the famous ski resorts in Austria, is located in the largest Otztal valley in the Eastern Alps. On its territory there are three peaks above 3000 m with magnificent observation decks. The resort has two snowparks, a halfpipe, nightclubs, restaurants and a large sports center, the Freizeit Arena Sölden.
Trails stretched for 145.5 km. The longest of them is 15 km, and the illuminated one is 4 km. The routes for beginners stretch for 69.5 km, the red and black routes for 29.2 km. The slopes are served by 34 lifts.
Prices. A day ski pass for adults costs 54.5€, for students - 43.5€, for seniors - 46.5€, and for children - 30€. You can rent a set of ski equipment or a snowboarding kit for the day for 33-58 €.
Reviews. Thanks to the variety of infrastructure, the resort receives flattering reviews. Vacationers enjoy the opportunity to relax in the thermal springs, swim in the indoor pool and attend fashionable night parties.
St. Anton am Arlberg
The rating of ski resorts in Austria is often topped by a recreation center located in West Tyrol, 100 km from Innsbruck. St. Anton is called the sparkling diamond in the country's winter crown. This is a universal recreation center for beginners, experienced skiers, fans of freeride, cross-country skiing and tobogganing.
Trails. The ski area starts at 1300 m and has an elevation difference of more than 1.5 km. Freeride routes stretch for 200 km. There are 130 km of slopes for beginners, 123 km of intermediate slopes, and 51 km of routes for professional skiers. The slopes are served by 90 lifts.
Prices. A full day ski pass for an adult costs 54.5€, for youth and seniors 49.5€ and for a child 32.5€. Renting alpine skis, poles, boots and a helmet for the day, depending on the model, costs 46-68.4 €. You need to pay the same amount to use a complete snowboard kit.
Reviews. Vacationers are satisfied with the après-ski resort. There are 80 cafes and restaurants, a couple of dozen shops and nightclubs here. There are saunas, jacuzzi and indoor pools. Connoisseurs of active recreation can go ice skating and paragliding.
Infrastructure, lifts and slopes at the resort of St. Anton
Lech
Popular ski resorts in Austria include a winter recreation center, which is part of the famous Arlberg ski area. Lech is considered the most expensive and snowy resort, as well as the cradle of skiing in the country. Celebrities and the rich are used to spending their free time on the local slopes.
Trails. The ski area has an elevation difference of 1 km. About a third of all trails are green. Difficult routes occupy 24%, and the off-piste area covers 200 km of slopes. Snowboarders use a halfpipe and two fan parks.
Prices. A full-day ski pass for an adult costs 54.5€, for youth and pensioners - 49.5€, and for a child - 32.5€. Renting mountain skis for 6 days costs 110-213 €, snowboard - 46-132 €, helmet - 35 €, snowshoes - 64.8 €.
Reviews. Vacationers note the incredibly high level of service and delicious Austrian food in local restaurants. The resort is recommended for skiers of any skill level and is considered an excellent place for a family vacation.
Bad Gastein
Prestigious year-round resort is located 100 km from Salzburg at an altitude of 1600 m. Due to its high cost, pretentiousness and the oldest mountain casino in the country, Bad Gastein is often called the “mountain Monte Carlo”. One of its symbols was a picturesque waterfall. In addition to skiing, here you can undergo wellness treatments in spa centers, hot radon springs and salt adits.
Trails. There are few easy slopes, so Bad Gadschein is not considered an Austrian ski resort for beginners. The slopes are dominated by red and blue runs, which are more suitable for advanced skiers. The quality of the infrastructure is so high that the resort hosts World Cup stages. There is a boardercross track, a halfpipe and a modern snow park.
Prices. The cost of a ski pass for an adult in the low season is 41.5 €, in the high season - 44.5 €. A child's ski pass costs 14-22.5 €. Children under 6 years old are allowed on the ski lifts free of charge. Renting a ski kit for adults for a day costs 21-40 €, and for a child - 7-17 €. Renting a snowboard costs 24€, a helmet - 6€, a toboggan - 5€, ski poles - 2€, snowshoes - 8€. Every year the collection of equipment for rental is updated with models of the new season.
Today, Austria is one of the leaders in receiving tourists, skiers and snowboarders. The ingredients for success are simple: a short flight, excellent slopes and many accommodation options - from luxury five-star hotels with spas and thermal springs to budget apartments. Thus, this alpine country can satisfy the needs of different categories of tourists who are in love with the mountains.
So how do ski resorts in Austria differ from each other? Where is the best place for you to go? Where is it better to relax with the whole family, and where is it better to relax with a noisy group? What are the prices for ski passes at Austrian resorts? In our material you can find answers to these questions and get information about popular and not so popular ski resorts in Austria. So, let's open the ski season!
Bad Kleinkirchheim
Bad Kleinkirchheim is a small village in the north of Carinthia, which is an excellent mountain thermal resort. This place is located at an altitude of 1100 meters on the border national park Norkberg and known for its thermal springs since the Middle Ages, very quickly gained popularity among lovers winter species sport thanks to a variety of trails of varying difficulty levels. There are both very steep descents and gentle slopes for “dummies”. The ski season lasts from mid-December to April.
In addition to skiing, here you can improve your health at the Baths of St. Catherine (water temperature 24-33 degrees; 2 indoor pools and one outdoor) and the Roman Baths (water temperature 28-36 degrees; one indoor and one outdoor pool).
In the evening there are many bars, discos, various shows are held, and from 18-30 to 0-30 runs free bus Après-Ski.
Kutchburg
Ski resort in Austria in the state of Carinthia, which in summer turns into great place for ecological tourism. Katschberg is located very close to the A10 highway and includes two peaks - Tschanek and Aineck. Their ski areas are not connected to each other, so you will have to go from one to the other through the village of Katschberg.
Nassfeld
Nassfeld is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria in the state of Carinthia, but is still practically unknown to Russian tourists. It is partially located in Italy. Most hotels are located at an altitude of 1300-1500 meters, and the elevation changes are more than 1400 meters - from 615 to 2030 meters.
Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein
One of the most famous and visited ski and thermal resorts Austria. Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein are located in the center of the Gastein Valley in Salzburgerland. The first is at an altitude of 1002 meters above sea level, the second is slightly lower - 858 meters.
Bad Gastein is also called the “Alpine Monte Carlo”: a holiday here is not a cheap pleasure, but the local trails will appeal to absolutely all lovers winter sports. Bad Hofgastein is considered a more democratic and less luxurious resort. The mountain villages themselves have been known since the Middle Ages and are great for pleasant walks in the fresh air.
Dachstein West and Lammerthal
One of the most picturesque ski resorts in Austria, located just an hour's drive from Salzburg. The region is united by a developed lift system connecting the villages of Abtenau, Annaberg, Gosau, Lungötz, Russbach, St. Martin am Tennengebirge, where tourists usually settle, with forest ski slopes. This region is well suited for family holidays and skiing.
- Trails, lifts and prices of the Dachstein West and Lammertal resorts
Saalbach and Hinterglemm
This Austrian ski resort in the Glemmtal Valley, thanks to its many interesting slopes, both steep and gentle, has gained popularity among many ski lovers of various skill levels. The villages of Saaalbach and Hintreglemm are located very close to each other, at an altitude of 1003 and 1050 meters respectively. At the same time, Saalbach traditionally has more tourists than the less noisy Hinterglemm. Both villages are surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- Trails, lifts and prices of the resorts of Saalbach and Hinterglemm
Kaprun
One of the ski resorts in the state of Salzburg, located at an altitude of 786 meters in the Pinzgau region. Kaprun is quite popular among many ski lovers and confirms its reputation as an excellent resort not only with its magnificent slopes, but also with its gorgeous nature.
In this small town There is always a cozy homely atmosphere and very little noise. The skiing region is usually divided into two parts: Maiskogel with a maximum height of 1675 meters, suitable for beginners, and the three-kilometer Kitzsteinhorn glacier with very difficult trails.
Obertauern
One of the most exciting Austrian resorts in terms of skiing, this is where the steepest and most difficult slopes in the land of Salzburg are located, although there is more than enough space for beginners. The village of Obertauern itself is quite small, but with its own Alpine flavor.
Zell am See and Schuttdorf
Located at an altitude of 760 meters on the shore beautiful lake, the town of Zell am See offers its visitors wonderful holiday and skiing on the high-quality slopes of Mount Schmittenhöhe. In addition, you can go shopping in the town.
The administrative part of Zell am See, the resort of Schuttdorf is less famous than its larger neighbor, but it is combined with it by one ski area, and is also more suitable for those who do not mind saving a little on accommodation. There are many excellent cafes, shops and discos, so there is plenty to do in Schuttdorf after skiing.
- Trails, lifts and prices of the resorts Zell am See and Schuttdorf
Schladming
Situated in the Dachstein Mountains in Styria, the resort is particularly attractive for extreme riding enthusiasts and freeriders, as the area has several excellent off-piste slopes. However, most of the slopes in Schladming are red, so even not the most experienced skiers have room to turn around. The largest ski area is the Planai area. Schladming itself has long gained a reputation as one of the best ski resorts in the world.
Sportvelt Amade
The Sportvelt Amade is 10 ski areas combined with one ski pass. There are a huge number of trails suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. Among the towns and villages included in this region, there are ancient ones - St. Johan im Pongau, Altenmarkt and Radstadt, as well as the more modern small towns of Eben, Flachau, Filzmoos, Wagrain and Kleinarl. Especially worth highlighting is Flachau, which combines a wonderful ski resort and a place where you can have great fun. In addition, it was in Flachau that Hermann Mayer, nicknamed “The Herminator,” one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, was born.
Westendorf
The town of Westendorf is located in the Kitzbühel area in the Wilder Kaiser-Brixental mountains and is considered not only an excellent ski resort, but also one of the most beautiful villages Austria. Westendorf is best suited for families who prefer a quiet and relaxing holiday and comfortable riding. Also this good place for your first steps in the world of alpine skiing.
Akzamer Lycium
A ski resort in the state of Tyrol that has twice hosted the Olympic Games. Despite this, Axamer remains a quiet mountain village adjacent to Lycium, a beautiful basin ideal for skiing.
Galtyur
An ideal place for those who prefer silence, privacy and quiet skiing to the noise of large ski resorts. Galtür is located near Ischgl, just a 15-minute drive, but it is both quieter and cheaper. This small alpine village, by the way, is located at a fairly high altitude - 1584 meters.
Gerlos
This beautiful ski resort is located near the border of the states of Tyrol and Salzburg and is considered the pearl of the region. There are not only many excellent slopes here, located at a decent altitude and guaranteed to be covered with snow, but also excellent opportunities to relax after skiing - après-ski bars and restaurants, paragliding and much more.
Seefeld
One of the most famous sports resorts not only in Tyrol, but throughout Austria. Here are the best cross-country ski tracks in the country, for which this place is primarily famous; by the way, it hosted two Olympics. One of the advantages of Seefeld is its proximity (about 20 kilometers) to Innsbruck. In the past, Seefeld attracted many intellectuals and artists and it can be said that it has not lost its charm.
Söll
A very popular ski resort, while maintaining its comfort and hospitality. Söll is located in the east of Tyrol and is part of a huge ski area called Brixental/Wilder Kaiser. Together with Söll, this region includes the resorts of Westendorf, Kelschau, Going, Scheffau, Brixen im Tal, Itter, Ellmau and Hopfgarten.
Sölden
Sölden is located in the famous Otztal valley (Ötztal) and is adjacent to other popular resorts in this area - Ventem, Hochseldenem, Hochgurgl and Obergurgl. According to some reports, together they form the most visited ski region in Austria.
Sölden is located at an altitude of 1350 meters, so snow is guaranteed. Plus, the Otztal valley itself is truly beautiful, although many may not like the fact that Sölden has an elongated shape and runs along the main road of this ski region.
Eagles
The small, calm and cozy Tyrolean village of Igls is located just 7 kilometers from Innsbruck on a beautiful plateau. This place, like some others in the vicinity of Innsbruck, hosted the Olympics twice.
Ischgl
Ischgl is one of the resorts (together with Samnaun) of the Silvretta ski area, and its main difference from many others is its hyperactive life, many tourists, discos, parties, combined with stunning slopes for skiing (though not extreme). The resort gained popularity about 30 years ago and since then has had the reputation of being one of the most popular in the whole country.
Kappl
Kappl - enough small resort very close to Ischgl, and both have the same ski pass. Kappl is a calmer and more peaceful resort and is covered with snow all season due to its altitudes.
Kirchberg
A fairly well-known Tyrolean resort, located 6 kilometers from Kitzbühel and connected with it by ski lifts. In general, from Kirchberg you can easily reach other ski resorts in the Pengelstein and Hankenkamm area. Kirchberg is considered not so quiet resort— there are plenty of après-ski bars, restaurants and noisy discos, so after skiing nothing will stop you from having a great time.
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel has long been known as one of the most popular and famous ski resorts not only in Austria, but throughout the world. Kitzbühel declared itself as a skiing center back in the 20s of the last century. Today you can see people skating here like " powerful of the world this”, staying in luxury hotels in the region, as well as many young people who eagerly hang out after skiing in ancient Kitzbühel. One of the pearls of the resort is the Streif slalom track, famous far beyond the borders of Austria, which hosts stages of the world championships.
Mayrhofen
Located in the famous “Tyrol Valley”, the resort of Mayrhofen is considered one of the best ski resorts - everything here is connected with this sport, and the local valleys and slopes will not leave any speed skiing fan indifferent. In total, the region unites 4 valleys, of which the most famous is the Tuxertal with the Hintertux glacier. The Ahorn area is suitable for “dummies”, Penken for the more experienced, and Hintertux for the “advanced”.
Neustift
This is a small Tyrolean village in the Stubai Valley, just a couple of tens of kilometers from Innsbruck. One of the skiing centers of the region is the Stubai Glacier, to which a free ski bus runs along the valley from Innsbruck. The resort of Neustift includes the tiny ski villages of Neustiftdorf, Kampl and Neder. Innsbruck Airport is only 26 kilometers from Neustift, so you can get there by taxi or bus.
Obergurgl and Hochgurgl
These are two fraternal villages at the end of the famous Otztal ski valley (Ötztal), located at a decent altitude - about 2 kilometers above sea level. In fact, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl form one of the highest ski resorts in Austria. It is especially convenient that the Obergurgl ski lifts are located right next to the village. Hochgurgl is located at an altitude of 2150 meters and is a secluded, expensive resort of 6 luxury hotels.
- Trails, lifts and prices of the Obergurgl and Hochgurgl resorts
St. Anton
This resort is iconic for the world of skiing. It was here that the first ever competitions took place in 1904, and in 1922 the world’s first ski school was opened. St. Anton is included, together with the resorts of St. Christoph, Zürs, Lech, Oberlech and Stuben, in the famous and popular Arlberg ski region. Riding here is not so cheap, but the prices for accommodation are more or less reasonable.
Serfaus
A fairly new ski resort in the western part of Tyrol, near the headwaters of the Inn River. In addition to Serfaus itself, the region includes the neighboring ski villages of Fiss and Ladis. All three resorts are connected by lifts and slopes. Enough short terms Serfaus has developed into one of the best ski regions in the country.
Fulpmes
Fulpmes is one of the ski resorts in the Stubai Valley with excellent slopes, toboggan runs, skating rinks, etc. It is a beautiful Alpine town with a wonderful atmosphere created historical center with its cozy bars and shops. Fulpmes's ski area is called Schlick 2000.
Fügen
A beautiful resort town in the Ziller Valley, famous, among other things, for its Gothic architecture. Fügen consists of two parts - Fügen itself and Fügenberg. The main ski areas are Spieljoch and Hochfügen. The first is great for family skiing, the second will appeal more to skilled skiers and snowboarders. Innsbruck Airport is located 40 kilometers from Fugen, Munich - 130. From the airports you can get to the resort by shuttle bus or by train to Jenbach station and by bus to Fugen.
They open their doors to millions of tourists from November to April, and on the tops of the Alpine glaciers you can enjoy excellent skiing at any time of the year. The main ski area is located in the southwestern part of the country, in federal states Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Austrian ski centers are known throughout the world for the excellent quality of the slopes, modern infrastructure, excellent service and a huge selection of entertainment for every taste. The mesmerizing landscapes of mountain lakes, snowy slopes covered with fir trees and Tyrolean village houses give a special charm to winter holidays in Austria. You can get acquainted with the best Austrian ski resorts by reading our article.
1. St. Anton (Vorarlberg)
St. Anton is rightfully one of the best ski resorts in Austria. This modern resort, with rich traditions and excellent infrastructure, is called the cradle of Austrian skiing - it was here that the first ski club in the Alps was opened at the very beginning of the 20th century. A holiday in St. Anton will bring true pleasure to experienced skiers and adrenaline junkies: the slopes here are interesting and quite challenging. The total length of St. Anton's routes is more than 300 km, most of them have a high level of difficulty. By the way, the longest 10-kilometer track in the Arlberg is also located in St. Anton. In addition, the resort has excellent opportunities for freeride thanks to spacious and steep slopes and excellent snow cover. Fans of active pastime after skiing will be pleased with the St. Anton ski resort with a huge selection of restaurants and noisy nightclubs.
2. Lech (Vorarlberg)
Ski resort Lech - real paradise for connoisseurs of luxury hotels, great restaurants, fine Austrian cuisine and, of course, beautiful slopes. Lech has long been favorite place winter holiday for European aristocrats, world celebrities and crowned heads. You definitely won’t be able to save money on your vacation here, but in return for the money spent, you will be able to enjoy the highest level of service and a huge variety of services offered. Of the 300 km of ski routes in Lech, slopes of medium difficulty level predominate. There are many convenient trails with a slight slope, suitable for lovers of leisurely and comfortable skiing. Skiers with impeccable physical fitness will certainly enjoy heli-skiing - off-piste descents with delivery to the top by helicopter. Lech is the only Austrian resort where this rare and exciting type of skiing is officially permitted. In addition, Lech and St. Anton are united by a common ski pass, which allows you to enjoy extreme skiing on the slopes of the neighboring resort.
3. Mayrhofen (Tyrol)
Mayrhofen is one of the most famous ski resorts in Austria. Its undeniable advantages are a large skiing area with a total length of more than 150 km, impeccable pistes of medium difficulty, affordable prices and a lively nightlife. The resort of Mayrhofen is extremely popular among the European public, so it is not surprising that in the high season its slopes are often overloaded, and there are long queues at the lifts. The Hintertux glacier has excellent opportunities for skiing, the peak of which is at 3250 m. The snow cover here lasts all year round, making skiing on the upper zone of the glacier possible both in winter and summer. And finally, the main highlight of Mayrhofen is the most dangerous track in Austria with the eloquent name “Harakiri”: its incredibly steep gradient reaches 78%.
4. Sölden (Tyrol)
The ski resort of Sölden has become well known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of recreational opportunities. There are various accommodation options from budget hotels to luxury hotels. A huge number of restaurants, bars, discos and nightclubs makes a holiday in Sölden especially attractive for lovers of wild après ski: the noisiest and most incendiary parties in Tyrol take place here. As for skiing, among 150 km of first-class ski slopes everyone, from beginner to professional, will find a route according to their preferences. And thanks to the fact that the top of the Sölden glacier is covered with snow all year round, the ski season here begins earlier than usual, and the most impatient skiers come here already in October.
5. Ischgl (Tyrol)
The small mountain village of Ischgl has firmly established its reputation as the most expensive and most prestigious ski resort in Austria. From the end of October to the beginning of May, Ischgl turns into a place of a huge glamorous party, where, according to tradition, all Austrian bohemians gather to “see people and show themselves off”, and at the same time (as a pleasant addition to the holiday) to go skiing. Annual opening ski season in Ischgl is a grandiose show: over the years, Elton John, Tina Turner, Sting, Rihanna and other legendary world-famous performers took part in it. The quality of the trails and infrastructure here is, of course, at the highest level. The total length of the trails exceeds 200 km, most of them are quite difficult. The resort has all the conditions for extreme skiing, freeride and carving, and the famous local snowboard park is considered one of the best in Europe.
6. Zell am See (Salzburg)
The picturesque town of Zell am See, located on the shores of the mountain lake Zell, is rightfully one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Austria. With impeccably groomed pistes and the latest infrastructure, it has retained its unique natural charm. Zell am See, together with the high-mountain Kaprun glacier, form a single ski area with a total length of pistes of about 140 km, and the season on the glacier lasts all year round. Zell am See offers its guests a huge selection of opportunities for active pastime: alpine and classic skiing, snowboarding, sledding and skating, horse riding, sailing on the ice of Lake Zell, mountaineering, paragliding and parachute jumping. The health benefits of the resort are complemented by its excellent ecology, fresh mountain air and the presence of healing mineral springs.
7. Bad Gastein (Salzburg)
The expensive and prestigious Austrian ski resort of Bad Gastein is known primarily as a spa resort: back in the 19th century, European intelligentsia came here to improve their health “on the waters.” Thanks to the healing mountain air and numerous thermal springs, Bad Gastein is often called the “Alpine Monte Carlo”. The unique flavor of the town is given by ancient architectural ensembles, a picturesque waterfall in the heart of the resort, elite spa complexes, as well as the oldest mountain casino. For alpine skiing enthusiasts, Bad Gastein offers about 200 km of impeccable pistes, most of which are ideal for relaxed, comfortable skiing. There are few difficult trails here, but there are several ski schools for beginners, including children's ones. As for the après-ski holiday, it certainly cannot be called stormy and lively: in the territory of aristocratic Bad Gastein, the most popular entertainment after skiing is leisurely walks along the mountain paths or a visit to the spa.
8. Obertauern (Salzburg)
Obertauern rightfully enjoys the reputation of being the most snow resort For ski holiday in Austria. Skiing here is organized at an altitude of 1700 to 2300 m, so natural snow is always guaranteed on the upper sections of the slopes, and at the bottom there is a modern artificial snow cover support system. Of the 100 km of ski routes, more than half are blue slopes, designed for average skiers. There are interesting red trails with an increased level of difficulty. For lovers of extreme skiing, Obertauern can offer only 4 black slopes, but thanks to the abundant snow, there are excellent opportunities for freeride. This resort is not yet very well known to the Russian public, although it certainly deserves closer attention: it has the most modern hotel stock in Austria and excellent opportunities for après ski: many bars, restaurants and several nightclubs.
9. Nassfeld (Carinthia)
Nassfeld is another good ski resort in Austria, undeservedly deprived of the attention of Russian tourists. Therefore, if you prefer a holiday in Europe among Europeans, Nassfeld will be for you excellent option. Among the main advantages of the Nassfeld resort are a guaranteed abundance of snow, excellent quality pistes and a very convenient location of hotels and apartments, allowing you to ski, as they say, “from your doorstep”. The Nassfeld slopes, with a total length of about 100 km, have enough space for both beginners and professionals. Interestingly, it is in Nassfeld that the longest gondola lift in the Alps operates, delivering skiers to the beginning of the slopes over a distance of more than 6 km. Another highlight of the resort is mountain lake Presegger, which after freezing turns into a huge natural ice skating rink.
10. Serfaus – Fiss – Ladis (Tirol)
The ski resorts of Serfaus, Fiss and Ladis, united by a common 200-kilometer piste area, are an excellent option for an active family holiday in Austria. There are excellent conditions for intermediate skiers and children's skiing. At the Serfaus resort, everything is thought out to the smallest detail for the most comfortable holiday with children: the famous mountain kindergarten with exciting animation programs, children's restaurants, a puppet theater, a children's ski school, snow towns and even lifts specially adapted for loading strollers. One more unique feature resort - the only silent metro of its kind, consisting of one line and four stations, and transporting vacationers from the resort center to the ski lifts completely free of charge.
