Skiing In Austria: What's The Law?

Skiing is a popular activity in Austria, with the country offering some of the world's best ski resorts. The Austrian ski scene is known for its cute alpine villages, gently wooded slopes, and lively après-ski culture. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ski slopes remained open despite nationwide lockdowns, though with restrictions in place. Austria's ski resorts attract a range of skiers, from beginners to experts, and are generally considered more affordable than those in France or Switzerland. The country's ski areas are owned by a mix of farmers, the state, previous royalty, and the church, and the sport is deeply ingrained in Austrian culture, with many locals taking ski trips annually.

Skiing is allowed in Austrian forests, but only on marked pistes or ski routes

In the area of ascending aids, such as cable cars, alpine skiing is only permitted on marked slopes or ski routes. The 'area of ascending aids' is defined as the area that can be reached from the top station of a lift facility without having to walk for more than thirty minutes, and an area of 500 metres on both sides of the lift facility, piste, or marked ski slope.

Outside of these designated areas, skiing or snowboarding is equivalent to entering a forest and is generally permitted as long as the necessary care is taken. However, it is important to note that new afforested or re-afforested areas with vegetation of less than 3 metres in height are excluded from the right of entry and must not be used for skiing or snowboarding.

Cross-country skiing outside of marked courses is also permitted, provided that the necessary care is taken. The use of forests beyond this, such as laying route markers and using those routes, requires the consent of the forest owner.

Cable cars are considered an essential service in Austria and remained open during the Covid-19 lockdown

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Austria imposed a series of lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus. However, cable cars and ski lifts were deemed an "essential service" and remained open, even during the nationwide lockdown in November 2021. This decision raised some eyebrows, especially considering that the Ischgl ski resort in Austria was an epicentre of Europe's first coronavirus outbreak.

The Austrian government's decision to keep cable cars running was based on safety concerns, as they wanted to prevent people from getting stuck on mountains. However, the ski lifts and cable cars were only open to those who could provide proof of vaccination or recovery from the virus. Additionally, hotels were ordered to shut down, and only locals were allowed to use the ski facilities.

The Austrian ski industry urged the government to allow catering facilities to open as well, arguing that it was a safety risk to bring people up to high altitudes without providing basic infrastructure. Despite this, many ski resorts that had opened for the season decided to close due to the lockdown.

Austria's lockdown rules varied over time and according to vaccination status. During the second lockdown, bigger shops and small businesses were allowed to reopen, and schools resumed in-person instruction. In the third lockdown, only essential shops were open, and people were instructed to work from home whenever possible. The fifth COVID-19 Emergency Measures Regulation, adopted in November 2021, prohibited people from leaving their homes except for specific reasons and mandated the use of FFP2 face masks in most indoor public spaces.

There are 435 ski resorts in Austria

Austria is a popular destination for skiing, with 435 ski resorts operating across the country. The Austrian government has historically supported the skiing industry, even allowing ski slopes to remain open during the countrywide Covid lockdown in 2021.

Austria offers a range of ski resorts, from mega-resorts with big reputations, like St. Anton, to hidden gems like Zell am See-Kaprun. The country is known for its cute alpine villages, gently wooded slopes, and friendly bar staff. It is also relatively cheap compared to other world-class skiing destinations, with more affordable accommodation, lift passes, and drinks.

Austrian ski resorts cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Intermediates can enjoy wide pistes, while experts can explore some of Europe's best off-piste itineraries. The country also boasts some of the continent's best snow parks and fantastic freeride destinations.

In addition to skiing, Austria is famous for its après-ski scene, with world-renowned venues like the Mooservirt in St. Anton. The country's ski resorts offer a unique cultural experience, with traditional Austrian villages, delicious cuisine, and lively bars.

Overall, with its diverse ski resorts, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture, Austria is an excellent choice for skiers of all levels looking for a memorable winter sports experience.

Austria is relatively cheap for a world-class skiing destination

Austria: A Top-Tier Skiing Destination That Won't Break the Bank

Austria is a world-class skiing destination, offering a range of experiences for skiers of all levels. From mega-resorts with big reputations, like St. Anton, to hidden gems like Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria has something for everyone. And the best part? It won't break the bank.

A Range of Resorts to Suit All Budgets

Austria is known for its charming Alpine villages, gently wooded slopes, and friendly bar staff. The country's 435 ski resorts cater to all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. For those just starting out, Austria's slopes offer a more gentle introduction, with an arm around the shoulder rather than a shove down the slope. Intermediates can enjoy wide-open pistes, while experts can explore some of Europe's most epic off-piste itineraries.

Affordable Accommodation and Lift Passes

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Austria as your skiing destination is the cost. Lift passes, ski lessons, and mountain lunches tend to be significantly cheaper than in France or Switzerland. This means you can spend more time on the slopes and less time worrying about your bank balance.

A Variety of Après-Ski Options

Austria is also the spiritual home of après-ski. Whether you're looking for world-famous venues like the Mooservirt in St. Anton or the ubiquity of banging slopeside bars, Austria has you covered. And the best part? A round of drinks won't cost you a fortune.

Easy Access to Other Resorts

Many of Austria's resorts are easily accessible, with short transfer times, making it easy to explore multiple resorts during your stay. This means you can ski in a different location every day, without spending a fortune on transportation.

A Range of Snow Conditions

Austria offers a range of snow conditions, from the snow-sure slopes of Obergurgl, where the village sits at 1,930 meters, to the anomaly of Damüls, which sits at just 1,400 meters above sea level but is one of the snowiest places in the Alps.

In conclusion, Austria is a relatively affordable option for a world-class skiing destination. With a range of resorts, snow conditions, and après-ski options to suit all budgets, it's no wonder Austria is a popular choice for skiers from all over the world.

The Ski Plus City Pass offers access to 13 ski resorts and 22 museums and attractions in Innsbruck

Skiing is allowed in Austria, and the country is known for its ski resorts. In 2019, Innsbruck introduced the Ski Plus City Pass, a single ski pass that offers access to 13 ski resorts and 22 museums and attractions in the city. This pass is perfect for those who want to combine their skiing with urban experiences and culture.

The Ski Plus City Pass provides access to a variety of ski resorts around Innsbruck, each offering something different. For beginners, there are the gentle slopes of Mutteralm. For those looking for a challenge, Nordkette and Kühtai offer serious off-piste opportunities and challenging terrain. Axamer Lizum is another resort known for its excellent off-piste skiing. If you're visiting early or late in the season, the Stübai glacier offers snow-sure skiing. With such a variety of resorts, there is something for every type of skier in Innsbruck.

In addition to skiing, the Ski Plus City Pass also includes access to 22 museums and other attractions in Innsbruck. The pass provides the flexibility to ski in the morning and then explore the city in the afternoon. Innsbruck is a beautiful university town known for its world-class restaurants, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural life. The pass also includes transportation, making it easy to get around the city and between the ski resorts.

The Ski Plus City Pass is available for purchase online, at ticket offices, and from participating distribution partners. It offers excellent value for money, especially when combining a city trip with a skiing holiday. With this pass, you can make the most of your time in Innsbruck and experience the best of both the alpine and urban worlds.

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