Marj's Austrian Adventure: Exploring A New Country

If you're looking for a brilliant choice of ski resorts, Austria is the place to go. With a range of resorts to choose from, you can enjoy skiing in Austria any time from December to April. Each month offers something different, so whether you're looking for a quiet slope experience or bluebird days, there's a resort that's right for you.

December in Austria is a brilliant time for families, with many resorts offering traditional alpine charm and festive activities. The cuisine at this time of year is also fantastic, with plenty of glühwein and alpine dishes available. One recommended resort is Obergurgl, which has excellent snow conditions and a great mixture of accommodation near the slopes.

January is a quieter time to enjoy the mountains, even for locals. Temperatures tend to drop, resulting in firm snow or powder days. The Arlberg ski area is an excellent choice, as it is one of the snowiest destinations in Europe and offers a great range of runs for all abilities, as well as fantastic luxury ski accommodation options.

February is peak season for most European ski resorts, and Austria is no exception. Despite being busy, ski conditions remain brilliant and the atmosphere is fun and lively. The SkiWelt ski area is a great family-friendly option, with 284km of slopes to explore and excellent links between Söll, Ellmau and Westendorf.

March brings more frequent sunshine, and for the most part, it is quiet in Austrian ski resorts. This is the last time snow depths hit heights before the snow starts to melt in spring, and the days are longer compared to December through to February. Mayrhofen is an ideal choice, with high-altitude slopes up to 3,250m.

Before the ski season draws to a close, April is a great time to enjoy the sun and the last of the season's snow. The snow goes softer a lot quicker, but up high, the piste conditions remain good. Pack high-factor sun cream and head to Sölden, one of the highest-altitude ski resorts in Austria, which has a reputation for having the longest season. There's also a great party atmosphere at this time of year, with end-of-season music events and festivals.

Christmas and New Year celebrations in Austrian ski resorts

Christmas in Austrian ski resorts is generally less commercial and more traditional. Villages are decorated festively throughout Advent, and many have Christmas markets. Glühwein is served as a winter warmer, and you can expect to experience ancient customs, such as Christmas tree diving in Zell am See, Kitzbühel's 'living advent calendar', and Ischgl’s ‘Christmas in the Mountain’ concerts.

Best Resorts for Christmas

• Snowsure: Obergurgl, Kaprun, Solden
• Scenery: Kitzbühel, Lech, Zell am See
• Après ski: St Anton, Ischgl, Mayrhofen
• Families: Mayrhofen, Obergurgl, Niederau
• Bargains: Ischgl, Kaprun, Solden
• Luxury: Lech, St Anton, Zell am See

New Year in Austrian Ski Resorts

New Year's in Austria is the time to go all out with the best après on the planet. There are also charming spa towns for R&R, and families are welcomed with open arms.

Best Resorts for New Year

• Snowsure: Obergurgl, Kaprun, Solden
• Scenery: Kitzbühel, Lech, Zell am See
• Après ski: St Anton, Ischgl, Mayrhofen
• Families: Mayrhofen, Obergurgl, Niederau
• Bargains: Ischgl, Kaprun, Solden
• Luxury: Lech, St Anton, Kitzbühel

Skiing in Austria in January: a quieter time to enjoy the mountains

January is a great time to go skiing in Austria, with fantastic snow conditions in the Alps and plenty of resorts to choose from. The slopes tend to be relatively quiet at this time of year, as it's mostly locals taking advantage of the ski season.

Ischgl

Ischgl is a great option for early-season skiing, usually opening in November before many other Austrian resorts. With an altitude of 1,380m-2,900m, it has a great snow record and low temperatures that keep the snow compact. Ischgl has an impressive 240km of pistes suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers, and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system guarantees a good base throughout the winter. Off the slopes, Ischgl is known for its lively après-ski scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Kühtai

Considered a hidden gem of Austrian skiing, Kühtai is another excellent choice for early-season skiing. Its north-facing slopes and high altitude of 2,020m-2,666m make it snow-sure. The ski area is small, with only 46km of pistes, but the village is right next to the slopes, and the modern lift system makes it easy to get in as many runs as you want. Kühtai has a good selection of bars and restaurants for a small village, and the atmosphere is a nice mix of lively and relaxed.

Obergurgl

Located at the end of the Ötztal Valley, Obergurgl is one of the highest ski resorts in Austria, with an altitude of 1,930m-3,080m and an excellent snow record. The season typically runs from late November to the end of April, longer than most Austrian resorts. Obergurgl has 110km of slopes suitable for different levels, with fantastic ski schools and nursery slopes for beginners, and incredible off-piste terrain for advanced skiers. The resort is only a 90-minute transfer from Innsbruck airport. There are top-class hotels, as well as fantastic restaurants and bars, including the liveliest bar in town, Krumpn’s Stadl, with live music and a great selection of drinks.

Obertauern

Obertauern is another hidden gem, with top-class snowmaking facilities and a high altitude of 1,740m-2,313m, ensuring great snow conditions in January. The resort has 100km of slopes, as well as some excellent off-piste spots, and two night-ski nights each week throughout the season. Beginners have good access to nursery slopes, and there are challenging black slopes for advanced skiers, too. The village has fantastic ski-in ski-out accommodation, as well as great bars and restaurants, including the Königsalm in the Latschenhof for traditional Austrian cuisine.

Sölden

Sölden is a fantastic option for early-season skiing, with two glaciers and an excellent snow record. Its high altitude of 1,380m-3,250m means great snow conditions in January. There are 155km of pistes to explore, and you can also head to Obergurgl by bus. The FIS Alpine World Cup tour often has its opening race of the season in Sölden in October, and during this time, the public can ski on the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach Glaciers. Off the slopes, there are great bars, restaurants, and fun activities, including the 007 Elements installation, featuring James Bond franchise exhibits.

Skiing in Austria in February: peak time for families from around the world

Like most European ski resorts, February is peak time in Austria. Families from across the globe head to its ski resorts during this time. Despite the crowds, ski conditions remain excellent, and the atmosphere is fun and lively.

Where to go?

The SkiWelt ski area is the second largest in Austria and is known for its family-friendly set-up. With a full lift pass, you get access to 284km of slopes and great links between Söll, Ellmau and Westendorf. Each village has its own charm and excellent accommodation options. The area is large enough to cope with the half-term rush.

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in Tirol is another family-friendly option. It might be one of the most child-friendly ski areas in the world. The resort has a great selection of family-friendly accommodation, with 125,000m2 of slopes reserved for children, as well as an entire kids' adventure land for playing in the snow. There are ski courses for all ages, and lunch is served in two dedicated children's restaurants.

For a more low-key experience, try the Wildkogel-Arena Neukirchen and Bramberg. This ski area is a hidden gem, away from the busy ski crowds. It caters to all skill levels and offers plenty of highlights for families. With 24 fun parks and slopes, there's something for skiers of all ages.

In Austria, helmets are compulsory for children up to the age of 15.

February is a busy time, so it's worth noting that most major resorts have excellent lift networks that cut down on queuing times.

If you're looking for a quiet, magical world and one of the most snow-sure Alpine regions, try the car-free Tauplitzalm village.

Food and drink

The most popular dish in Austria's ski huts is Kaiserschmarrn, closely followed by Käsespätzle and cheese dumpling soup.

Sunshine and softer snow: skiing in Austria in March

March is a great time to go skiing in Austria. The days are longer, the sun shines brighter, and the snow is softer. While some resorts in Austria are melting by March, there are still plenty of options for a ski holiday, especially if you're willing to travel up to an hour to find good snow. Here are some of the top resorts for late-season skiing in Austria:

Obergurgl

Obergurgl is widely considered the most reliable entirely non-glacial resort in the Alps. With a top height of over 3000m, snow quality is often good, particularly in the high bowls above Hochgurgl. The resort usually stays open until late April, and in a normal year, there is excellent cover at all levels. Obergurgl is best for beginners and intermediates.

Ischgl

Don't be put off by Ischgl's modest resort height or the lack of a glacier. Most of the ski area is above the mid-stations, and Ischgl has the greatest extent of skiing above 2000m in Austria. This means super-reliable snow cover right through until closing time in early May. You don't have to ski down the slushy runs home either, as there are three efficient lifts ready to whisk you back to base. Ischgl is best for intermediates.

Sölden

Sölden is one of the main glacier resorts in the Tyrol and also offers summer skiing. Its big draws are its two glaciers, which guarantee an extensive area of good snow. There's also plenty of high non-glacial skiing, making Sölden an excellent choice for a late-season trip. The runs home are likely to be worn or patchy by spring, but you can always catch a lift down. Sölden is best for intermediates.

Mayrhofen/Hintertux

Mayrhofen alone might not make the top 5 late-season ski resorts in Austria, but given its proximity to Hintertux, we think it's worth a mention. Mayrhofen has plenty of relatively snow-sure slopes, at least above the mid-stations. Nearby Hintertux has one of Europe's largest and most varied glaciers, with the promise of good snow, even in late spring. The glacier is open 365 days a year. Mayrhofen/Hintertux is best for intermediates.

Lech/Zürs

Lech/Zürs is the snowiest major ski area in the Alps, and cover is pretty much guaranteed until the end of April, even at resort level. With little skiing above 2500m, afternoon slush can be a concern, so morning skiing is the main focus in spring. Lech/Zürs is best for intermediates.

Other resorts that are usually open for skiing in March include Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Hochgurgl, Kaprun, and Obertauern.

April in Austria: sun, snow, and end-of-season parties

Spring in Austria brings warmer temperatures, marking the end of the ski season. However, there are still plenty of resorts that offer skiing opportunities well into April and beyond. So, if you're looking for a late-season ski trip, Austria is a great choice!

Sun and Snow

The transition to spring in Austria brings longer days, with the sun shining for up to 6 hours each day in April. The average temperature rises, with a maximum of 14°C (57.2°F) and a minimum of 6°C (42.8°F). However, don't forget that the nights can still be pretty cold, especially in the mountainous regions.

End-of-Season Parties

Several ski resorts in Austria plan their end-of-season parties and events in April. Here are some resorts to consider:

• Sölden: Sölden is a glacier resort in the Tyrol region that offers skiing until late April. It is known for its lively atmosphere and hosts the two-day Electric Mountain Festival from April 4-5 to close out the winter season.
• Lech: Lech is a non-glacier resort that usually boasts good snow depths in April. It typically plans to close around April 22, offering late-season skiing opportunities.
• Ischgl: Ischgl is famous for its end-of-season Top Of The Mountain Concert, which falls on May 3 in 2024. The official last day of skiing is scheduled for May 4, making it a great choice for late-season fun.
• Kaprun: The glaciers above Kaprun offer skiing well into the spring, with the official end of the winter season falling on April 8. However, the resort then moves into a spring period, offering reduced skiing until July.

Other Late-Season Ski Resorts

In addition to the resorts mentioned above, here are a few more options for late-season skiing in Austria:

• Hochgurgl: Located high in the Austrian Tyrol, Hochgurgl is a non-glacier resort that typically stays open until late April.
• Obergurgl: Part of the same group as Hochgurgl, Obergurgl often stays open until April 27 and sometimes even longer.
• Stubai Glacier: The Stubai glacier ski area near Neustift offers skiing well into the summer, depending on snow conditions.
• Obertauern: Located in the province of Salzburg, this high-level non-glacier resort sits at an altitude of 1750m and usually stays open through May 1.

So, if you're looking for a combination of sun, snow, and festive end-of-season celebrations, April in Austria is the perfect time to visit!

Frequently asked questions