Today Austria is one of the leaders in receiving tourists, skiers and snowboarders. The ingredients for success are simple: a short flight, great slopes and a variety of accommodation options - from luxurious five-star hotels with spas and thermal springs to budget apartments. Thus, this alpine country can satisfy the needs of different categories of tourists in love with the mountains.
So how are the ski resorts of Austria different from each other? Where is the best place to go for you? Where is it better to have a rest with the whole family, and where - in a noisy company? What are the prices for ski passes in Austrian resorts? In our material you can find answers to these questions and get information about popular and not so ski resorts in Austria. So, we are opening 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, located at an altitude of 1100 meters on the border of the Norkberge National Park and famous for its thermal springs since the Middle Ages, quickly gained popularity among winter sports enthusiasts thanks to its many trails of various difficulty levels. There are very steep slopes and gentle slopes for "dummies". The ski season lasts from mid-December to April.
In addition to skiing, here you can improve your health in the Terme Saint Catherine (water temperature 24-33 degrees; 2 indoor pools and one outdoor) and Roman Baths (water temperature - 28-36 degrees; one indoor and one outdoor pool).
In the evening, there are many bars, discos, various shows, and a free Apres-Ski bus runs from 18-30 to 0-30.
Kutchberg
The Austrian ski resort in Carinthia, which in summer turns into an excellent destination for ecological tourism. Katschberg is located just off 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 Kutchberg.
Nassfeld
Nassfeld is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria in the state of Carinthia, but so far practically unknown for Russian tourists. It is partly located in Italy. Most of the 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 in 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 "Alpine Monte Carlo": vacation here is not a cheap pleasure, however local tracks will appeal to absolutely all winter sports lovers. Bad Hofgastein is considered a more democratic and less luxurious resort. The mountain villages themselves have been known since the Middle Ages and are perfect 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 system of ski lifts 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 vacation and skating.
- Trails, lifts and prices in Dachstein West and Lammertal
Saalbach and Hinterglemm
This ski resort in Austria in the Glemmtal Valley, thanks to the many interesting slopes, both steep and gentle, has gained popularity among many ski enthusiasts of various skill levels. The villages of Saaalbach and Hintreglemm are very close to each other, at an altitude of 1003 and 1050 meters respectively. Moreover, in Saalbach traditionally more touriststhan the quieter Hinterglemm. Both villages are surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- Trails, lifts and prices in 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 magnificent slopes, but also with gorgeous nature.
This small town always has 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 tracks.
Obertauern
One of the most exciting in terms of skiing austrian resorts - this is where the steepest and most difficult tracks of the state of Salzburg are located, although there is more than enough space for beginners. The village of Obertauern itself is rather small, but with its own Alpine flavor.
Zell am See and Schuttdorf
Located at an altitude of 760 meters on the shores of a beautiful lake, Zell am See offers its visitors a wonderful holiday and skiing on the quality tracks of the Schmittenhoe mountain. In addition, you can go shopping in the town.
The administrative part of Zell am See, the Schuttdorf resort is less famous than its larger neighbor, but it is united with it by one ski area, and also more suitable for those who do not mind saving a little on accommodation. There are many great cafes, shops and discos here, so there is plenty to do in Schuttdorf after the ride.
- Slopes, lifts and prices in Zell am See and Schuttdorf
Schladming
Situated in the Dachstein mountains in Styria, the resort is especially attractive for extreme riders and freeriders, as the area has several excellent off-piste slopes. However, most of the slopes in Schladming are red, so there is plenty of room to turn around even for less experienced skiers. The largest ski area is the Planai area. Schladming itself has long acquired a reputation as one of the best ski resorts in the world.
Shportwelt Amade
Sportwelt Amadé has 10 ski areas at once, which are united by one ski pass. There is a huge number of slopes here, suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. Among the towns and villages that make up this region, there are old ones - St. Johann im Pongau, Altenmarkt and Radstadt, as well as the more modern small towns of Eben, Flachau, Filzmoos, Wagrain and Kleinarl. Flachau is especially worth highlighting, combining a wonderful ski resort and a place where you can have great fun. In addition, it was in Flachau that Hermann Meyer, nicknamed "Herminator", was born - one of the greatest skiers of all time.
Westendorf
The town of Westendorf is located in the Kitzbühel region in the Wilder Kaiser-Brixental mountains and is considered not only an excellent ski resort, but also one of the beautiful villages Austria. Westendorf is best suited for families looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday and comfortable skiing. Also this a good place for the first steps in the world of alpine skiing.
Akzamer Lycium
Ski resort in Tyrol, which has twice hosted the Olympic Games. Despite this, Akzamer remains a quiet mountain village adjacent to Lycium, a beautiful depression ideal for skiing.
Galtyur
An ideal place for those who prefer quietness, solitude and calm skiing to the noise of large ski resorts. Galtür is located near Ischgl, only 15 minutes away, but it is both quieter and cheaper. This small alpine village, by the way, is located at a rather high altitude - 1584 meters.
Gerlos
This beautiful ski resort is located close to the border between Tyrol and Salzburg and is considered the pearl of the region. Not only are there many beautiful slopes at a decent height and guaranteed to be covered with snow, but also great 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 skiing tracks in the country, for which this place is first of all famous, by the way, which 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 we can say that he has not lost his 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 (Ötztal) valley and is adjacent to other popular resorts in the area - Wentem, Hochselden, Hochgurgl and Obergurgl. According to some reports, all 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 is elongated 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, twice hosted the Olympics.
Ischgl
Ischgl is one of the resorts (together with Samnaun) of the Silvretta ski area, and its main difference from many others is an overactive life, a lot of tourists, discos, parties, combined with stunning slopes for skiing (though not extreme). The resort gained popularity about 30 years ago and has since become one of the most popular in all the country.
Kappl
Kappl - pretty small resort very close to Ischgl, and both have the same ski pass. Kappl is a quieter and more peaceful resort and is covered with snow all season due to its heights.
Kirchberg
Quite a well-known Tyrolean resort located 6 kilometers from Kitzbühel and connected with ski lifts. In general, Kirchberg offers easy access to other ski resorts in the Pengelstein and Hankenkamm areas. Kirchberg is not considered to be such a quiet resort - there are plenty of après-ski bars, restaurants and noisy discos here, so that after skiing nothing will prevent you from having great fun.
Kitzbuehel
Kitzbühel has long been known as one of the most popular and famous ski resorts not only in Austria but throughout the world. As a ski center, Kitzbühel made a name for itself back in the 20s of the last century. Today, here you can see both the "mighty" skating here, staying in luxury hotels in the region, and many young people eagerly hanging out after skiing in old Kitzbühel. One of the pearls of the resort is the Streif slalom track, known far beyond the borders of Austria, which hosts the stages of the world championships.
Mayrhofen
Located in the famous "Tyrolean Valley", the Mayrhofen resort is considered one of the best ski resorts - everything here is connected with this sport, and the local valleys and tracks will not leave indifferent any lover of speed skiing. In total, the region unites 4 valleys, of which the most famous is Tuxertal with the Hintertux glacier. For "dummies" the Ahorn area is suitable, for the more experienced - Penken, and Hintertux - for the "advanced".
Neustift
It is a small Tyrolean village in the Stubai Valley, just a couple of dozen kilometers from Innsbruck. One of the ski centers of the region is the Stubai Glacier, to which there is a free ski bus from Innsbruck along the valley. The Neustift resort includes the tiny ski villages of Neustiftdorf, Kampl and Neder. Innsbruck Airport is only 26 kilometers from Neustift, so you can take a taxi or bus from there.
Obergurgl and Hochgurgl
These are two fraternal villages at the end of the famous ski valley Otztal (Etztal), located at a decent height - about 2 kilometers above sea level. Actually, 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 in Obergurgl and Hochgurgl
St. Anton
This resort is a landmark in the world of skiing. It was here in 1904 that the first ever competition took place, and in 1922 the world's first ski school was opened. St. Anton, together with the resorts of St. Christoph, Zürs, Lech, Oberlech and Stuben, belongs to the famous and popular ski region of Arlberg. Riding here is not so cheap, while the prices for accommodation are more or less reasonable.
Serfaus
A fairly new ski resort in the western part of Tyrol, not far from 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. In a fairly short time, Serfaus has become one of the best ski regions countries.
Fulpmes
Fulpmes is one of the ski resorts in the Stubai Valley with excellent slopes, toboggan runs, ice rinks, etc. It is a beautiful alpine town with a wonderful atmosphere created by historical Center with its cozy bars and shops. The Fulpmes ski area is called Schlick 2000.
Fügen
The most beautiful resort town in the Zillertal valley, famous, among other things, for its Gothic architecture. Fügen consists of two parts - directly Fügen and Fügenberg. The main ski areas are Spieljoch and Hochfügen. The first one is great for family skiing, the second one is more to the liking of skilled skiers and snowboarders. Innsbruck Airport is 40 kilometers from Fügen, Munich - 130. From the airports you can get to the resort by shuttle buses or by train to Jenbach station and by bus to Fügen.
Austria is the recognized queen of the Alps, and this is not surprising - the Alps cover most of it, and the abundance of lakes gives an additional charm to this amazing country. Austria is famous for its picturesque resorts and an excellent level of service and quality of service.
This country is one of the leading skiing destinations in Europe. Austria is home to many renowned ski resorts, and whatever your level of skiing, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety on offer.
Ski resorts in Austria, as a rule, are slightly lower than the French and Swiss ones, but this does not prevent excellent skiing in the season, and out of season the famous Austrian glaciers are at your service.
The most famous and popular ski resorts are located in the federal states of Tyrol, Salzburgerland, Styria, Carinthia.
In this worthy list, Tyrol is rightfully leading with its star capital Innsbruck (twice the capital of the Winter Olympic Games).
The main resorts of Tyrol: Innsbruck and surroundings (Igls, Akzamer-Lizum, Fulpmes, Neustift, Tulfes, Imst) Arlberg (Sant Anton, Lech) Ski Circus with the famous White Circle, which includes St. Anton, St. Christoph, Lech and Zürs and offers excellent and memorable skiing. Zillertal valley (Mayrhofen, Zell am Ziller, Fuegen, Kaltenbach) with the famous Hinterhuks glacier Seefeld Kitzbühel and Kirchberg Otztal valley (Sölden, Obergurgl, Hochgurgl) Sölden, one of the most popular resorts in Austria, where thousands of white fans flock every year; Ischgl, practically a mecca for skiers, Pitztal Serfaus
The ski center of Styria, the second largest state in Austria, was and remains Dachstein-Tauern with its largest spa center Schladming.
Salzburg is famous for its European sports region, which includes the villages of Zell am See and Kaprun with the glacier of the same name. To the south are the thermal and ski resorts Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein (Gasteinertal Valley). Whichever resort you choose for your vacation, you will receive an equal Austrian quality service and very reasonable prices.
As a rule, resorts in Austria offer not only ski holidays, there are many thermal complexes in resorts, sports centers, entertainment centers, including children's ones. Often at the resort you can get a guest card, which provides discounts on services, including ski pass.
The après-ski of Austria deserves a special mention - here they know and want to have fun. The renowned bars and nightclubs of St. Anton are practically business card Austrian après-ski. However, this does not mean at all that for an excellent evening entertainment, you must definitely choose a large resort - even in the smallest village there is always an excellent bar with music and dancing.
Choosing Austria, you choose great service in the mountainous Alps at a reasonable price.
Most of the Austrian territory is occupied by the Alps, so the country's specialization in winter vacations was predetermined. Ski areas in Austria are dotted with small ski villages, in which an atmosphere of coziness reigns and old traditions are maintained. Thousands of small and large resorts boggle the tourist imagination.
This article opens a heading dedicated to the ski resorts of Austria. We will tell you about the most popular ski areas, look for thermal springs and places for high-quality family holidays. Special attention will be paid to weather and prices.
Popular ski resorts in Austria
Austria is dominated by medium-altitude ski resorts suitable for professionals and beginners. The highest slopes are located in the famous province of Tyrol - it is there that the "main" ski resorts of the country are concentrated.
Austria also boasts unique host areas all year round - these are Bad Gastein and Zell am See. We will devote separate articles to the following regions:
- ... The jewel of the Stubai Valley, whose tracks are mainly aimed at beginners. Nearby is a large transport hub - Innsbruck. It is through it that you have to get there.
- ... The capital of the Winter Olympics has an excellent ski infrastructure, ideally suited for professional skiers. Snowboarders will also like this picturesque place.
An important advantage is availability international airport... we posted in a previous article. - ... The slopes of this largest ski center in Austria occupied the slopes of two mountain peaks at once. For beginners, this is an ideal place - professional ski schools, soft slopes, an abundance of equipment rental offices.
Young people will love the abundance of nightclubs, restaurants, bars, modern discos and theatrical performances. - ... This popular resort is located in the picturesque Otzal Valley. Snowboarders and skiers are thrilled with Sölden - the town's reputation has been built up by the two-kilometer drops that create steep slopes for the pros.
The most extensive ski area in Austria is Tyrol.
Tyrol is notable not only for its picturesque landscapes, but also for a number of elite ski resorts. Note the following:
- Seefeld;
- Innsbruck (plus its surroundings);
- Kirchberg;
- Pitztal;
- Sant Anton;
- Ischgl;
- Serfaus;
- Zillertal Valley.
Six of the best resorts in the country
Among the thousands of ski resorts in Austria, it is very problematic to single out the "best". The reason lies in the fact that the towns and villages in the ski areas are scattered very tightly, and the general infrastructure is well thought out by the Austrians. Thus, our review will be reduced to a description of the most popular and revered places by skiers. Let's get started.
Lech... This resort belongs to the Arlberg region. You need to go here in winter, since the skiing season ends in March. You can get to Lech by bus running through Innsbruck.
The service is extremely high and the tracks are in perfect condition. The slopes, equipped for skiers, stretch for 260 kilometers. There are gentle slopes for children.
Snowboarders will love the halfpipe. Swimming pool, skating rink, discos, bars and restaurants - there is plenty of entertainment in Leh.- Ischgl... You will have to fly here in the usual way - through Innsbruck. Then - 100 km by bus (options can be a train or a rented car, you can look for a cheap car rental). Skiing in Ischgl starts in December, and the season ends in May. Ischgl is dominated by high-quality and rather difficult tracks, so experienced skiers flock here. Trails and lifts have connected Ischgl with the general infrastructure of the region.
By the way, the local roads stretch for 238 kilometers. The range of heights is 1400-2860 meters. The difficulty of the slopes is also indicated by the fact that half of the runs are “red”, another 18% are “black”. Beginners can also try their hand here - there are specially equipped "soft" zones for them. Ischgl is well-respected by snowboarders and is a state-of-the-art platform for board fans.
Weather conditions rarely fail, but if this happens, snow machines and guns come into play. 
Kaprun... This commune, located in the state of Salzburg, is considered the center of youthful fun and glamorous entertainment. The Kitzsteinhorn glacier has some pretty steep slopes that attract snowboarders and skiers of all categories. Three picturesque lakes, a museum of hydroelectric power plants, a national park with trails for ecotourists - all this will appeal to connoisseurs of attractions. , or at any other time of the year, truly unforgettable.
The power plant dams can be reached by funiculars and buses. The main feature of Kaprun is the mountain train, which runs between the city and the glacier.
In summer, Kaprun is warm (up to 24 degrees), so the ski season ends in March.- Salzburg... It is a vast region with many popular ski resorts. We have already written about Kaprun. The second most popular town is Saalbach. Also in the state of Salzburg are the resorts of Zell am See, Maiskogel, Bad Gastein, Obertauern, Bad Hofgastein. All of this is part of the ESP, the European Sporting Region.
- Schladming... One of the most prestigious European resorts (top 10 in the world ski rating). The slopes there are equipped for both normal skiing and downhill / slalom downhill skiing. The four peaks entering the ski area are connected by lifts. There are few open areas, the slopes are mostly wooded. The "red" class is focused on basic board and ski skills, so beginners will find it difficult here.
The wonderful landscapes of Schladming are complemented by excellent weather, which allows you to keep the real snow in its original form (though not everywhere).
You can ski in Saalbach from December to the end of March.
We are looking for Austrian ski resorts on the map
The listed ski resorts can be found on the map of Austria. Villages and towns are packed tightly, so finding the right place will be easy.
A ski resort for every taste
The life of Austrians is closely related to skiing, so the resorts are intended for everyone who is interested in quality winter holidays.
We list the key areas and levels of skier training, linking them to specific resorts:
- Beginners... Feel free to go to Obertauern, Serfaus, Mayrhofen, Kaprun, Saalbach.
- Confident skiers... You will love Ischgl, Bad Gastein, St. Anton, Saalbach, Kitzbühel, Obergurgl and Galtur.
- Wealthy people... The most elite resorts are Ischgl, Lech, Seefeld, Sant Anton.
- Family holiday... Feel free to take your children to Lech, Serfaus, Kitzbühel, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Saalbach-Hinterglemm.
- Snowboarders... Sölden, Ischgl, Hintertux, Zillertal, Saalbach will suit you.
- Cross-country skiing. Top sites for cross-country skiers are located in the vicinity of Kaprun, Innsbruck, Schladming, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Saalbach.
Where to go for a beginner skier
We have already written about the friendly tracks of Kaprun and Mayrhofen. Now we have to go to the border region between Vorarlberg and Tyrol - this is where the magnificent Saalbach is stretched. To get here, you need to travel through Salzburg, from which Saalbach is 90 kilometers away. Buses run regularly between the two cities.
Here are the main benefits of the resort:
- 200 tracks of all difficulty levels;
- an abundance of snowboard and ski schools;
- the presence of entertainment facilities with live music;
- bowling alley;
- swimming pool;
- excellent weather conditions.
Also worth paying attention to is Obertauern. "Upper Tower" - this is how the Austrians called the resort, covered with fluffy snow up to the ears. The weather allows skiing here until April. Excellent service combined with moderate (for elite resort) prices.
Thermal springs and recreation with children
For those looking to combine skiing with wellness treatments, we recommend visiting the thermal springs. They are concentrated in the following places:
- Burgenland;
- Tyrol;
- Styria;
- Salzburg.
Also pay attention to Upper Austria, where the imperial baths of Bad Ischl are located.
As for Salzburg, here you can enjoy relaxing in the thermal baths, and at the same time visit the spa. Most popular resort in these lands is Gastein.
Lech and Zell am See are ideal for families. You need to go to Lech via Innsbruck. This is a prestigious resort that not everyone can afford.
Among the undeniable advantages are a wide selection of slopes, "soft" slopes and respected ski schools.
The town of Zell am See, nestled on the coast of a picturesque mountain lake, is worthy of special mention. The abundance of short descents will allow children to hone the skills acquired in the classroom with the instructor.
Additional benefits of the resort include:
- kindergartens;
- torchlight processions;
- carnivals;
- medieval architecture;
- natural half-pipe;
- four snowboard parks.
Price panorama
It is rather difficult to calculate the cost of travel to each of the resorts we have described. The budget will depend on the chosen hotel, room, mode of travel (train, plane, personal / rented car) and the number of days of your vacation. Therefore, we will focus on prices related to package tours and ski passes:
- Sant Anton - from 50 euros (day ski pass);
- Ischgl - from 45;
- Serfaus - from 41;
- Saalbach-Hinterglemm - from 40;
- Kitzbuehel - from 42;
- Kirchberg - from 42;
- Innsbruck - from 30;
- Montafon - from 27.
On average, about a thousand dollars per person per week (if you choose a package tour). The price will include accommodation, airfare, insurance and visa.
Here are specific examples of package ski tours:
- Lech - 950 USD / week (a six-day ski pass will cost 214 "green")
- Sant Anton - 1000 (plus $ 193 for a six-day ski pass);
- Saalbach-Hinterglemm - 700 (plus $ 164 for a ski pass);
- Mayerhofen - 900 (for a six-day ski pass you will pay another 164);
- Kitzbühel - 700-900 (and 180 for a ski pass).
By the way, you can go to the same Mayerhofen on your own, pick up a tiny inexpensive hotel and have a decent rest for a week for 400-500 euros. The resort is year-round - you can go there in the height of summer and enjoy skiing. But Ishtl is significantly more expensive - the minimum budget that you have to lay down for a week is 1000 euros.
Summing up, we note that Austria in winter is to the liking of both seasoned professionals and novice skiers. Many resorts are adapted for children, so it is quite possible to "come off" with the whole family. The main thing is to know what you want and how much you are willing to spend.
They open their doors to millions of tourists from November to April, and the summits of the alpine glaciers offer excellent skiing all year round. The main ski area is located in the southwestern part of the country, in the federal states of Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Austrian ski centers known all over the world for the excellent quality of the tracks, modern infrastructure, excellent service and a huge selection of entertainment for every taste. A special charm to winter holidays in Austria is given by the mesmerizing landscapes of mountain lakes, snowy slopes covered with fir trees and Tyrolean village houses. 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. Holidays in St. Anton will bring real pleasure to experienced skiers and adrenaline lovers: the tracks here are interesting and quite difficult. 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 km trail in Arlberg is also located in St. Anton. In addition, the resort offers excellent freeride opportunities thanks to its spacious and steep slopes and excellent snow cover. Fans of active pastime after skiing will be delighted by the St. Anton ski resort with a huge selection of restaurants and noisy nightclubs.
2. Lech (Vorarlberg)
The Lech ski resort is a real paradise for connoisseurs of luxury hotels, great restaurants, fine Austrian cuisine and, of course, beautiful slopes. Leh has long been a favorite place winter holiday European aristocrats, world celebrities and crowned heads. You will definitely not be able to save on vacation here, but in return for the money spent, you can enjoy the highest level of service and a huge variety of services offered. Of the 300 km of ski trails in Lech, slopes of average difficulty prevail. There are many comfortable slopes with a slight incline, suitable for lovers of leisurely and comfortable skiing. Skiers with impeccable physical training will surely like heli-skiing - off-piste slopes with delivery upstairs by helicopter. Lech is the only Austrian resort where this rare and exciting skiing is officially allowed. 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 Austrian ski resorts. Its indisputable advantages are a large skiing area with a total length of more than 150 km, impeccable tracks of an average difficulty level, affordable prices and a lively night life... The Mayrhofen resort is very popular among the European public, so you shouldn't be surprised that during the high season its slopes are often congested, and there are long queues at the lifts. The Hintertux glacier has excellent opportunities for descending, the summit of which is at an elevation of 3250 m. The snow cover here lasts all year round, so skiing on the upper glacier zone is possible both in winter and in summer. And finally, the main highlight of Mayrhofen is the most dangerous track in Austria with the eloquent name "Harakiri": its incredibly steep incline reaches 78%.
4. Sölden (Tyrol)
The Sölden ski resort is well known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of recreational opportunities. Here are a variety of accommodation options from budget hotels to luxury hotels. A huge number of restaurants, bars, discos and nightclubs make a vacation in Sölden especially attractive for fans of a stormy après ski: the most noisy and incendiary parties in Tyrol take place here. As for skiing, among the 150 km of first-class ski slopes everyone, from beginner to professional, will find a route according to their preferences. And due to the fact that the top of the Sölden Glacier is covered with snow all year round, the skiing 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 itself 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 get-together, where, according to tradition, all Austrian bohemia gathers to “see people and show themselves”, and at the same time (as a pleasant addition to the rest) and go skiing. Annual opening ski season in Ischgl is a grandiose show: in different years Elton John, Tina Turner, Sting, Rihanna and other legendary performers of world magnitude took part in it. The quality of the tracks and infrastructure here is, of course, at the highest level. The total length of the tracks exceeds 200 km, most of them are rather 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 its impeccable groomed trails and state-of-the-art infrastructure, it has retained its inimitable natural charm. Zell am See together with the high-mountainous Kaprun glacier form a single ski area with a total length of trails of about 140 km, and the season on the glacier lasts all year round. Zell am See offers its guests a wide range of opportunities for active pastime: alpine and classic skiing, snowboarding, sledging and skating, horse riding, sailing on the ice of the lake Zell, mountain climbing, paragliding and parachute jumping. The health-improving effect of the resort is 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 Bad Gastein is known primarily as a spa resort: as early as the 19th century, the 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 referred to as the “Alpine Monte Carlo”. The unique flavor of the town is given by old architectural ensembles, a picturesque waterfall in the heart of the resort, elite spa complexes, as well as the oldest mountain casino. For alpine skiers, Bad Gastein offers about 200 km of impeccable trails, most of which are ideal for measured, comfortable skiing. There are not many difficult slopes here, but there are several ski schools for beginners, including children's ones. As for the après-ski vacation, you definitely cannot call it stormy and lively here: 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 is rightfully reputed to be the snowiest 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 slopes, and a modern artificial snow cover support system works below. Of the 100 km of ski routes, more than half are blue slopes designed for the average level of skiers. There are interesting red tracks with an increased difficulty level. For fans of extreme skiing, Obertauern can offer only 4 black tracks, but thanks to the abundant snow, there are excellent opportunities for freeriding. 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 vacation in Europe among Europeans - Nassfeld will be an excellent option for you. Among the main advantages of the Nassfeld resort are the guaranteed abundance of snow, the excellent quality of the pistes and the very convenient location of hotels and apartments, allowing you to ski, as they say, "from the door". On the slopes of the Nassfeld, with a total length of about 100 km, there is enough room for both beginners and professionals. Interestingly, it is in Nassfeld that the longest gondola lift in the Alps operates, taking skiers to the start 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 rink.
10. Serfaus - Fiss - Ladis (Tyrol)
The ski resorts Serfaus, Fiss and Ladis, united by a common 200-kilometer piste zone, are an excellent option for active family holidays in Austria. There are excellent conditions for intermediate skiers and childrens skiing. At the Serfaus resort, everything is thought out to the smallest detail for the most comfortable holiday with children: the mountain kindergarten famous throughout Europe 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. Another unique feature of the resort is the one-of-a-kind silent metro, consisting of one line and four stations, and completely free of charge delivering vacationers from the center of the resort to the ski lifts.
Here you can ride until you lose your strength, without repeating the same descent in one day, there are slopes of different difficulty levels, and after-ski parties - for every taste and budget. None of the resorts are like the other, each has its own characteristics, charm and charm. We present to you the ten largest ski resorts in Austria for the 2013/2014 season.
Mayrhofen ski resort, so beloved and popular with russian tourist, offers action & fun to the full: the famous après-ski in Brück'n Stadl, where four beers will be poured in a record 11 seconds, and discos in Snowbombing. If we count only the ski area above Mayrhofen, then in terms of its size and the length of tracks, it will take 10th place in Austria. Meanwhile, the height difference here is the largest in the surveyed ten: the tracks are located between 620 m and 2,250 m above sea level. The length of the slopes prepared by snow groomers 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 gone down the Harakiri is happy to buy a T-shirt in the nearest shop with the inscription “I survived Harakiri”.
Mayrhofen
Facts:
- length of tracks: 133 km;
- the resort will appeal to fans of après-ski, amateurs active rest and extremals.
Features:
- the steepest track in Austria and a 10-kilometer descent into the valley;
- new high-speed chairlifts with wind hoods and heated seats;
- VansPenkenPark in Mayrhofen;
- après-ski until 2 am.
Naked numbers:
- height difference - 1880 m;
- especially for those who go up 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 the 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 in 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, the descent will not cause any particular problems - the snow cannons will take care of this. Some trails end right at the apreski bars - you can relax after skiing in Sölden until the early morning.
Facts:
- length of tracks: 150 km;
- cost of a ski pass: € 48 per day;
- the resort will appeal to fans of noisy après-ski.
Features:
- snow guarantee from October to May;
- après-ski parties at the Fire and Ice bar until 3 am;
- Alpine Ski World Cup track on the Rettenbach glacier, tracks with speed measurement and automatic video filming;
- Hannibal Show performance on Rettenbach glacier in April.
Naked numbers:
- one 3S-lift (with three supporting cables), 7 gondola-type, 16 chairlifts and 9 drag-tows;
- 80% of easy and medium difficulty tracks;
- 28 km of "black" trails and a 2 km ski route.
How to get there:
By car: turn off the A12 motorway at the sign for Ötztal, 35 km on the B186 to Sölden.
By train: you will have to make a lot of changes to the Ötztal station. A regular bus leaves the station every hour, 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 skiing from the Kitzbüheler Horn. No less legendary are the races from Hahnenkamm, the Alpine Ski World Cup competition on the Streif downhill track, one of the most difficult and dangerous. Kitzbühel is only 125 km from Munich International Airport and 80 km from Salzburg Airport. The network of trails and lifts on the surrounding slopes starts at an altitude of about 2,000 m above sea level.
Kitzbuhel
Facts:
- length of tracks: 170 km;
- the cost of the ski pass: € 47 per day;
- the resort is most suitable for well-skiers, lovers of delicious food.
Features:
- in January, during the World Cup stage (January 21-26, 2014), not only the elite of alpine skiing meets here, but also the cream of society, and not only Austrian;
- downhill slope "Streif" 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's mountain area.
Naked numbers:
- 51 lifts;
- 32 km of marked, but not prepared slopes (ski-route).
How to get there:
By car: Autobahn A8 towards Salzburg, turn towards Kufstein, exit at Kufstein Süd, B178 towards St. Johann in Tirol, B161 towards Kitzbühel. From Munich - 2 hours, from Salzburg - 1 hour 40 minutes.
By train: a couple of transfers from Munich, lower station cable car on Hahnenkamm is located three minutes from the station.
Sports, shows, après-ski parties, concerts of world pop-rock celebrities: in Ischgl, of course, young people will be most interesting. A huge expanse of sunny slopes, a wide network of prepared trails and endless possibilities for freeriding.
Facts:
- length of tracks: 238 km;
- price of a ski pass: € 43.50 per day in high season.
Features:
- concerts of world rock stars;
- snow parks and mountain huts next to the slopes;
- good opportunities for freeriding and snow guarantee throughout the season.
Naked numbers:
– highest point the resort is located at an altitude of 2,872 m;
- 43 lifts;
- 16% of runs are blue, 65% are red and 19% are black.
How to get there:
By car: from Innsbruck along the Arlbergstrasse expressway, turn towards the sign for Pians, then 20 km along Silvrettastrasse B188 towards Ischgl.
Brixental
1. Wilder Kaiser / Brixental
And finally, the largest ski area in Austria is the Wilder Kaiser / Brixental ski world. In terms of the total length of prepared tracks, this region ranks 9th in Europe. Hardly anyone is able to go around all 279 km of the slopes of Brixental in one day. Despite the relatively low altitude, it is still worth going here - especially since it is one of the best resorts in the Alps in terms of transport accessibility.
Facts:
- length of tracks: 279 km;
- the cost of a ski pass: € 44 euros per day in high season;
- the resort is ideal for fans of the so-called cruise skiing, snowboarders and those who have not skated in a whole day.
Features:
- the largest day and night skiing area in Austria;
- 48% of the "blue" slopes and only 6% of the "black" slopes;
- an ideal resort for snowboarders - there are practically no long gentle slopes and flat traverses, but there are several snow parks.
Naked figures:
- 91 cable cars;
- over 70 mountain restaurants, cafes and apreski 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 am);
- The 13 km long illuminated trail is the longest in Austria.
How to get there:
By car: from Munich on the Autobahn via Rosenheim, turn onto Kufstein Süd or Wörgl Ost, then almost all SkiWelt centers are accessible via the new expressway.
By train: nearest train station in Hopfgarten. You can get here overnight, for example, from Northern Germany on the Schnee-Express. From Munich or Vienna - by EuroCity trains to Wörgl, transfer to local railroad, which takes 10 minutes to the lower cable car station in Hopfgarten.
