Skiing In Austria: What You Need To Know

Austria is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with its large ski resorts offering varied slopes and fun parks. The country caters to all levels of skiers, from beginners to advanced, with renowned destinations such as St. Anton am Arlberg, Bad Gastein, and Solden. Austria's ski resorts provide the perfect backdrop, with many hosting historic Olympic and World Cup runs, including the notorious Streif downhill course in Kitzbuhel. The country is also known for its après-ski scene, considered the best in Europe by many.

Austria has 440 ski resorts served by 2,632 ski lifts, with 7,282 kilometres of slopes available. The largest ski areas in the country include Arlberg, SkiWelt, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Ischgl, Kitzbühel, Mayrhofen, Obergurgl, and Sölden. These resorts offer a range of pistes, from gentle blues and reds to challenging blacks, as well as off-piste terrain and snow parks.

Austrian ski resorts are easily accessible, with modern infrastructure, well-maintained slopes, and sustainable cable cars. They also offer a blend of adventure and culture, inviting visitors to explore quaint villages, hamlets, and vibrant cities.

Austria's largest ski resorts

Skiing is a cherished tradition in Austria, with the country's large ski resorts offering varied slopes and fun parks.

Arlberg, Vorarlberg

Arlberg is Austria's largest ski resort, with 305km of downhill skiing and 87 ski lifts. The area is covered by one lift pass, and its state-of-the-art lift system makes it easy to get around. Arlberg is also one of Austria's most snow-sure resorts, with an altitude of 2,811m. The area includes the legendary resorts of St. Anton, Lech, St. Christoph, and Zürs.

SkiWelt, Tyrol

The second-largest ski resort in Austria, SkiWelt connects picturesque resorts, including Ellmau, Söll, and Westendorf, with 284km of pistes. It's a great destination for families and intermediates, with a variety of wide, gentle pistes and dedicated areas for beginners and children.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Saalbach-Hinterglemm offers 270km of pistes, fantastic for intermediates with plenty of blues and reds. Advanced skiers can find challenging terrain on the north-facing side. The SkiCircus challenge involves a 72km circuit linking the five villages of the ski area.

Ischgl, Tirol

Ischgl, with its 240km of pistes, is a popular resort with a long ski season and high-altitude slopes reaching 2,900m. It offers a variety of blues, reds, and blacks for all standards of skiers and is also a popular destination for snowboarders, with the largest Fun Park in Europe.

Kitzbühel

Scenic Kitzbühel is widely known for the notorious Hahnenkamm Downhill course and offers 179km of groomed pistes. The resort has invested in a high-speed, modern lift system, and its extensive range of blues and reds will keep intermediates happy, while experts can explore over 200 square kilometres of off-piste terrain.

St. Anton

St. Anton is known for its infamous après scene and incredible, advanced ski terrain, with challenging runs and some of the best off-piste in the world. It is part of the vast Arlberg area, with 305km of fantastically maintained pistes.

Lech

Lech, part of the Arlberg, gathers an average of 10m of snow per season and offers some of the best pistes and powder in the Zürs ski area. The resort limits the number of lift tickets sold during busy periods to preserve its peaceful slopes.

Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen attracts crowds from all over the world, hosting one of Europe's biggest snowboarding music festivals, Snowbombing. Skiers can explore the resort's two local mountains, Ahorn and Penken, or purchase a Zillertaler Superskipass for access to 180 lifts and a thrilling choice of terrain.

Obergurgl

Obergurgl is a long-standing favourite for families, favoured for its peaceful, wide-open pistes and quaint town with a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. It offers 110km of winding reds and blues, with an impressive top altitude of 1,930m.

Sölden

Sölden has access to two glaciers, three mountains, and an extensive network of slopes stretching over 144km. Adventurous skiers will enjoy the long 15km run from the top of the glaciers down into the valley.

Other Large Resorts

Other large ski resorts in Austria include Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in Tirol, with 214km of slopes; Zillertal Arena in Tirol, with 150km of slopes at 2,500m above sea level; and Silvretta Montafon in Vorarlberg, with 140km of pistes offering a variety of choices for all skill levels.

Skiing and snowboarding in Austria

Top ski resorts in Austria

St. Anton am Arlberg

St. Anton am Arlberg is famed as the birthplace of skiing. It is the biggest ski area in Austria, with 305km of downhill skiing and a wealth of varied runs to suit every skier. The area is covered by one lift pass and has a state-of-the-art lift system. St. Anton is also known for its famous après-ski scene, with dancing and steins of beer.

SkiWelt

The second biggest ski resort in Austria, SkiWelt is located in the Tyrol region and connects picturesque ski resorts, including Ellmau, Söll and Westendorf. Skiers can explore 284km of piste with dedicated areas for beginners and children, and snow parks for freestylers. SkiWelt is a great destination for families and intermediates, with a variety of wide, gentle pistes.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

With 270km of pistes, Saalbach-Hinterglemm is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, offering a diverse range of blues and reds. Advanced skiers can find challenging terrain on the north-facing side of the ski area, such as The Nordabfahr piste, a black run with panoramic views.

Ischgl

Ischgl is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in Austria, with a long ski season and high-altitude slopes reaching up to 2,900m. The resort offers a variety of blues, reds and blacks for all standards of skiers and is a popular destination for snowboarders, with the largest Fun Park in Europe. Ischgl also has a lively atmosphere with a range of bars and nightclubs.

Kitzbühel

Scenic Kitzbühel is one of the biggest ski resorts in Austria, offering 179km of groomed pistes. It is widely known for the notorious Hahnenkamm Downhill course. The resort has invested heavily in a high-speed, modern lift system, with an extensive range of blues and reds. Experts might enjoy hiring a guide and exploring over 200 square kilometres of off-piste terrain. The medieval town has been voted the most beautiful ski town in Europe.

Lech

Lech is one of the best ski resorts in Austria, known for its peaceful slopes and quaint town with a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. It gathers an average of 10m of snow per season and offers some of the best pistes and powder in the Zürs ski area. Lech is also the home of the first-ever ski school and the world's longest ski race. The resort's gourmet eateries and bars are brimming with character, and its scenic riverside setting gives way to beautiful vistas.

Obergurgl

Obergurgl is a long-standing favourite for families, favoured for its peaceful, wide-open pistes. Its situation just 90 minutes from Innsbruck airport makes it an ideal destination for easy, snow-sure skiing that reaches up to an impressive 1,930m.

Sölden

With access to two glaciers, three mountains and an extensive network of slopes stretching over 144km, Sölden lives up to its reputation as one of the best places to ski in Austria. Adventurous skiers will enjoy the long 15km run from the top of the glaciers down into the valley.

Best ski areas in Austria

Austria has some of the best ski areas in Europe, with extensive ski regions and modern cable cars. The largest ski areas in the country are favoured by their location and altitude, offering a guaranteed winter wonderland.

Austria's ski resorts offer varied slopes and fun parks, ensuring unforgettable ski days and sporty challenges. Well-maintained slopes, sustainable cable cars, and modern infrastructure complete the snow fun.

Austria is also known for its family ski resorts, with exciting winter fun for teenagers and children. Small and charming ski resorts offer snow-covered mountain panoramas and historic chocolate-box villages.

When to go

When planning a ski holiday in Austria, it is important to book in advance, especially if travelling during busy periods such as New Year or the February school holidays.

The summer in Austria might be hot, but cold spells in September bring snow to the high mountains. Glacier ski areas usually open in September, with non-glacier ski areas opening in November.

Getting there

Many of Austria's ski resorts are easily accessible from international airports. St. Anton am Arlberg, for example, can be reached by flying to Innsbruck and taking the train. Mayrhofen is closest to Munich international airport, and Lech is just 90 minutes from Innsbruck airport.

Austria's snow-sure ski areas

Austria is a great destination for skiing, with 440 ski resorts and 7,282 kilometres of slopes. The country's ski resorts are served by 2,632 ski lifts.

Arlberg

The Arlberg is the biggest ski area in Austria, with 305 kilometres of downhill skiing. It is also one of the country's most snow-sure resorts, thanks to its altitude, which reaches 2,811 metres. The area is covered by one lift pass, and its state-of-the-art lift system makes it easy to get around. Arlberg is home to several Austrian ski resorts, including the legendary St. Anton, Lech, St. Christoph, and Zürs.

SkiWelt

The second-biggest ski resort in Austria, SkiWelt is located in the Tyrol region. It offers 284 kilometres of pistes, with dedicated areas for beginners and children, as well as snow parks for freestylers. SkiWelt connects picturesque ski resorts such as Ellmau, Söll, and Westendorf.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, with 270 kilometres of pistes. It is an excellent choice for intermediates, with plenty of blue and red runs. Advanced skiers can find challenging terrain on the north-facing side of the ski area.

Ischgl

Ischgl is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, with 240 kilometres of pistes catering to different levels of skiers. It is known for its lively après-ski scene and is a popular destination for snowboarders, featuring the largest Fun Park in Europe.

Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is a well-known Tyrolean resort, famous for its historic Hahnenkamm downhill skiing race. The terrain is varied, making it an excellent resort for intermediates. The village has a beautiful old-world charm, with a mix of high-end hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Lech

Lech is part of the Arlberg ski area, offering access to 305 kilometres of pistes. It is known for its luxurious accommodation options and has a unique micro-climate, resulting in impressive snow records. Lech has some of the best snow reliability in the Alps and is one of the best places for ski lift-accessed off-piste.

Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is part of the Zillertal ski area and is very snow-sure. It has an impressive network of ski cannons and an altitude ranging from 630 to 3,250 metres. Mayrhofen offers skiing on two local mountains, Ahorn and Penken, and with the Zillertaler Superskipass, you can access even more terrain.

Sölden

Sölden has an excellent snow record and two glaciers that ensure reliable snow conditions. With an altitude ranging from 1,380 to 3,250 metres, it is one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in Austria. The ski area has 155 kilometres of impeccably groomed pistes and dedicated freeride areas.

Obergurgl

Obergurgl is located at the end of the Ötztal Valley, with an altitude ranging from 1,930 to 3,080 metres. It offers excellent snow conditions and one of the longest ski seasons in Austria, typically running from mid-November to the end of April.

Kaprun

Kaprun, a small mountain village near Zell am See, is one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in Austria. It has a great snow history and offers glacier skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. With a full lift pass, you can access 138 kilometres of pistes.

Schladming – Dachstein

Despite the Schladming resort's low altitude, the Planai ski area usually has good snow conditions throughout the year. Additionally, the Dachstein Glacier guarantees excellent skiing during the season, making Schladming – Dachstein a snow-sure resort. The ski area offers 238 kilometres of slopes to explore.

Zell am See

Zell am See is known for its exceptional snow conditions, enhanced by the nearby Kaprun Glacier. With an altitude ranging from 757 to 2,900 metres, it benefits from natural snowfall and a robust snowmaking system. Zell am See offers 138 kilometres of well-groomed slopes catering to all ski levels.

Family ski regions

Austria is the birthplace of alpine skiing and has 86 major ski areas within a few hours of each other, with over 400 ski areas in total. Here are some of the best family ski regions in Austria:

SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental

SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental is one of the largest and most modern ski resorts in the world, with child-safe chairlifts, gentle and well-prepared slopes, and numerous blue runs that make it ideal for a family holiday. There are 22 ski schools for children aged 2 and above, and fun options off the slopes include illuminated toboggan runs and a village of 18 igloos.

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in Tirol might be one of the most child-friendly ski areas in the world. The resort has a great selection of family-friendly accommodation, 125,000m2 of slopes reserved for children, and 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. There's also tobogganing and winter hiking, including with pushchairs.

Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau

The new children's paradise JUPPI-DO offers a range of obstacles, jumping courses, and ski trails for children to hone their skiing skills. Off the slopes, attractions include the “Lauser Sauser” Alpine coaster (you’ll ride in two-seater sleighs reaching speeds of up to 42 kmph), an igloo-building workshop, and the opportunity to ride shotgun on a piste basher.

Zell am See-Kaprun

The Schmittenhöhe mountain is a sure bet for family skiing. Here, mascot Schmidolin the Dragon will entertain children and teach them how to ski, while parents are free to enjoy one of the many pistes, including on the glacier Kitzsteinhorn. Afterwards, the local XXL Fun Slope and the snow park await. Children of all ages will also enjoy the world's longest toboggan run in the neighbouring Wildkogel Arena.

Kitzbüheler Alpen

Practise lifts and magic carpets for infants in the valley, as well as 400 km of blue pistes throughout the skiing region, ensure plenty of family skiing options in Kitzbüheler Alpen. Take your holiday pictures at designated photo points and join a guided family hike if you need a break from the pistes.

St. Anton

St. Anton is considered the birthplace of alpine skiing and offers many 4-star family-friendly hotels. It has a big 4,944' vertical, 41 modern lifts, and an excellent ski school for kids. There's also great mountain chalets and après ski for parents.

Small ski resorts

Austria has 440 ski resorts to choose from, and many of them are small and cosy. Here are some of the best small ski resorts in Austria:

• Alpbach: Voted Austria's most beautiful village in the eighties, this resort is straight out of a snow globe. The village is full of ancient wooden chalets, colourful coaching inns, and postcard-ready chapels. It's also off the beaten track and has fine uncrowded skiing.
• Berwang: A lesser-known resort to those outside of Austria, this family-friendly resort is located south of the Westautobahn between Salzburg and Linz. It offers enough skiing and fun activities and has a nice atmosphere.
• Waidring: Part of the Schneewinkl mini ski-circus, this small resort is connected to popular destinations such as St Johann in Tirol and Fieberbrunn.
• Pertisau: With only 460 inhabitants, Pertisau is a small village on the Achensee lake. It has a small ski area with slopes reaching an altitude of 1,860m.
• Bürserberg: This relatively small village is located just five kilometres from the larger ski resort of Brand. It has its own ski area that is now connected to Brand's ski area.
• Alberschwende: Located on the edge of the Bregenz Forest, this charming village offers a variety of activities in both summer and winter. The ski resort is situated at 655m above sea level.
• Egg: The largest municipality in the Bregenz Forest, Egg has evolved into an attractive and popular area for visitors. It has a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers.
• Söll: Söll is a picturesque ski resort that is part of the SkiWelt area, which offers 250km of wonderful slopes. It's a great destination for families and intermediates, with a variety of wide, gentle pistes.
• Ellmau: Often picked as the setting of Austrian films and TV shows, Ellmau is a picturesque village in the foothills of the Wilder Kaiser massif. It's built with sturdy wood and stone, with intricate designs and wooden ornaments on the chalets.
• Lech: Once a small village cut off from the rest of the world during winter, Lech has been transformed into a high-end ski centre, frequented by royals. It offers peaceful, wide-open pistes and a range of fine gourmet eateries and bars.

Frequently asked questions