Austria is famous throughout the world for composers, beer and schnitzels. But equally important fame for this small country comes from its stunning alpine ski resorts, the rumor about which flies throughout Earth. High mountain climate, snow-white slopes, amazing service - all this can be seen in Austria.

In total, there are just under 400 resorts in Austria. Most skiers choose alpine places, since prices in this country are relatively lower than neighboring countries- France, Switzerland, Germany. And the quality in some is even better than expensive settlements.

But before choosing a resort, you should remember that the alpine slopes are not for beginners, and there are no “green slopes” on most of them. Of course, there are ski schools, but if you want to build up your experience, it is better to choose easier mountains.

Ski resorts in Austria on the map (TOP 5):

Ischgl

Now this resort is considered one of the most visited. And statistics don’t lie. They love it for its excellent slopes, because even during a thaw, skiers will not be disappointed - snow cannons are placed everywhere.

Various tracks are suitable for amateurs and professionals: for cross-country skiing you can find wide plains, but for thrill-seekers there will be bright “red” and “black” tracks.

The ratio of the routes is as follows:

  • "Greens" - 0
  • "Blues" - 40
  • "Reds" - 80
  • "Black" - 15

The total length of the tracks is 230 kilometers.

Photos of the ski resort Ischgl:

Modern lifts transport athletes in a matter of minutes. Here you can see the world's first double decker lift which can accommodate up to 180 people.

Other types of lifts:

  • 23 chairlifts
  • 3 cabins
  • 2 funiculars

The ski pass has the same price in both “high” and “low” seasons - 45 euros per day.

Read the full article about the Ischgl ski resort.

Hotels in Ischgl:

Sölden

This resort is famous for hosting the first stage of the Alpine Ski World Cup since 2002. And Sölden itself attracts tourists with a large selection of slopes and trails, of which there are 146.

In addition, there are two glaciers here - Rettenbach and Tiefenbach. The cable cars can take you to a height of 3300 meters. And for a peaceful rest of soul and body, not far from the resort there is health Center Aquadom.

Photos of the resort Sölden:

In the “high” season, a ski pass for a day will cost 50 euros, and in “low” 46 euros.

Hotel prices in Sölden:

St. Anton

We can say that this is where the origins of the Austrian ski holiday. Back in the 30s of the last century, Hannes Schneider opened the first ski school on the site of today's resort. A little later, the neighboring village of Zurs became famous for the country's first ski lift.

Perpetually snow-capped St. Anton is a very diverse place - 100 runs, 96 lifts, and some of them have warm seats. Local schools employ smart and educated instructors who will teach you how to ride even from scratch. And in the settlement itself there are always types of evening and night recreation.

The price of a ski pass for both seasons is 50 euro/day.

Photos of the resort St. Anton:

Hotels in St. Anton:

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

When asked what is the largest mountain arena in Austria, you should undoubtedly answer about the resort, which includes Saalbach, Hinterglemm and Leogang. They say about it that you can travel along the slopes all day and never ride the same lift.

The 200 kilometers of trails are divided into:

  • 29 "blue"
  • 26 "red"
  • 5 "black".

There won't be any green ones here, but professionals will love the challenging 4-kilometer-long track. If the skier is still not confident in his skills, then it is advised to try simple slopes below forest level.

Photos of the resort Saalbach-Hinterglemm:

A ski pass in the “high” season will cost 47 euro/day, and in “low” 40 euros.

Hotels in Saalbach:

Kirchberg and Kitzbühel

Both resorts are located next to each other - the distance between them is only 6 kilometers. This is where you can feel the real Tyrolean atmosphere. It is sometimes said that its name is inseparable from the concept of “skiing”. But in small Kirchberg there is the famous Streif track.

There are practically no queues for the lifts here - each has about 70 lifts of different types.

Photos of the resorts Kirchberg and Kitzbühel:

A ski pass purchased at one of these resorts is valid throughout Tyrol. It will cost 47 euros during the high season, and 42 euros to "low".

Hotels in Kitzbühel:

Climate, weather and seasons in Austria

The Alps primarily influence the country's climate - they do not allow large quantity precipitation inland. But on the outskirts of the mountains, up to 3000 mm falls per year. But the country also never gets cold - in winter in the capital the average is +3, and at ski resorts it drops to a maximum of -5 degrees and a little lower at higher points.

The Austrian summer is warm, sometimes even hot, but there is still no scorching sun there. Dry weather helps cope with the heat. If in winter most tourists flock to the mountains, then in spring and early summer it is best to visit the sights and tourist places countries. People often come here to relax on the warm lakes of Carinthia.

In autumn, you can enjoy the nature of Austria and feel a real influx of inspiration to the music of Mozart. Mild weather will allow you to walk along the streets of ancient cities and not be afraid of a sudden downpour.

Cost of accommodation and food

Housing prices primarily depend on the season - from December to February and from July to August they are highest, since the influx of tourists on these days is the greatest. Of course, you can find an inexpensive apartment for 35 euros per day, but there is an option to relax on a grand scale in a spacious cottage; the cost, accordingly, will rise several times.

Also on the list popular places accommodation there are excellent hotels and inns around affordable price. In resort villages you can always stay close to the center and have access to all the entertainment within walking distance.

You don't have to worry about food - there are grocery stores, cafes, restaurants and bars everywhere. The quality is excellent, but you have to pay for it. You can pay 10–20 euros for lunch. Hotels most often offer free breakfast.

Other leisure activities at resorts

Experienced skiers can get bored of skiing all day in a row, and then they want change and new sensations. Then there is an option to try out a snowboard by renting it; take a breeze on a snowmobile; experience the beauty of the Alps at night while riding after sunset.

In the villages and nearby cities there are cafes, bars, and night clubs. Austrian resorts are also good because they always have a decent spa. The stores have a huge assortment of souvenirs and gifts for relatives for every taste. Sometimes there are skating rinks, and there are playgrounds for the little ones.

It's very difficult to get bored in Austria - it's a diverse amazing country. The ski resorts will satisfy even the most experienced skier, and he will definitely want to return here, because the Alps are simply impossible to forget!

Most of the Austrian territory is occupied by the Alps, so the country's specialization in winter holidays was predetermined. The ski areas in Austria are dotted with small ski villages, where an atmosphere of comfort reigns and ancient traditions are maintained. Thousands of small and large resorts amaze the tourist imagination.

This article opens a section dedicated to mining ski resorts Austria. We will tell you about the most popular ski areas, look for thermal springs and places for quality family vacation. Particular attention will be paid to weather and prices.

Popular ski resorts in Austria

Mid-rise buildings dominate in Austria ski centers, suitable for professionals and beginner athletes. The highest slopes are located in the famous province of Tyrol - this is where the “main” ski resorts of the country are concentrated.

Austria also boasts unique areas that welcome guests all year round– this is Bad Gastein and Zell am See. We will devote separate articles to the following regions:

  • . The pearl of the Stubai Valley, whose slopes are mainly aimed at beginners. A major transport hub, Innsbruck, is located nearby. 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 love this picturesque place.
    An important advantage is the availability international airport. we posted in the previous article.
  • . The slopes of this largest ski center in Austria occupy the slopes of two mountain peaks. For beginners this perfect place– professional ski schools, soft slopes, plenty of equipment rental companies.
    Young people will enjoy the abundance of nightclubs, restaurants, bars, modern discos and theatrical performances.
  • . This popular resort is located in the picturesque Otsal Valley. Snowboarders and skiers are delighted with Sölden - the reputation of this town was created by two-kilometer drops, forming 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. Let us note the following:

  • Seefeld;
  • Innsbruck (plus its surroundings);
  • Kirchberg;
  • Pitztal;
  • Sant Anton;
  • Ischgl;
  • Serfaus;
  • Ziller Valley.

Six best resorts in the country

Among the thousands of ski resorts in Austria, it is very difficult to single out the “best”. The reason lies in the fact that the towns and villages in the ski areas are scattered very densely, 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.

  1. Lech. This resort belongs to the Arlberg region. You need to go here in winter, since the ski season ends in March. You can get to Lech by bus running through Innsbruck.
    The level of service is extremely high, and the tracks are in perfect condition. Slopes equipped for skiers stretch for 260 kilometers. There are gentle slopes for children.
    Snowboarders will love the halfpipe. A swimming pool, skating rink, discos, bars and restaurants - there is plenty of entertainment in Lech.
  2. Ischgl. You will have to fly here in the usual way - through Innsbruck. Then – 100 km by bus (options could be a train or a rented car, you can look for a cheap car rental). Skating in Ischgl begins in December, and the season ends in May. Ischgl is home to high-quality and fairly challenging pistes, which is why experienced skiers flock here. The slopes and lifts united Ischgl with the general infrastructure of the region.
    By the way, the roads there extend for 238 kilometers. The altitude range is 1400-2860 meters. The difficulty of the slopes is also indicated by the fact that half of the slopes are “red”, another 18% are “black”. Beginners can also try their hand here - there are specially equipped “soft” areas for them. Ischgl is well-respected by snowboarders and is a state-of-the-art platform for board enthusiasts.
    Weather conditions rarely fail, but if this happens, snow compaction machines and cannons come into action.
  3. Kaprun. This commune, located in the state of Salzburg, is considered the center of youth fun and glamorous entertainment. The Kitzsteinhorn glacier has quite steep slopes that attract snowboarders and skiers of all categories. Three picturesque lake, hydroelectric power museum, national park with trails for ecotourists - all this will appeal to lovers of attractions. , or at any other time of the year, is truly unforgettable.
    The power plant dams can be reached by cable cars and buses. The main feature of Kaprun is the mountain train that runs between the city and the glacier.
    In summer it is warm in Kaprun (up to 24 degrees), so the ski season ends in March.
  4. Salzburg. This is a vast region that includes many popular ski resorts. We have already written about Kaprun. The second most popular town is Saalbach. Also located in the state of Salzburg are the resorts of Zell am See, Maiskogel, Bad Gastein, Obertauern, and Bad Hofgastein. All this is part of the ESR, the European Sports Region.
  5. Schladming. One of the most prestigious European resorts(top 10 world ski rating). The trails there are equipped for both regular skiing and downhill/slalom skiing. The four peaks included in 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 it will be a little difficult for beginners.
    The wonderful landscapes of Schladming are complemented by excellent weather, which allows real snow to be preserved in its original form (though not everywhere).

You can ski in Saalbach from December until the end of March.

Looking for Austrian ski resorts on the map

The listed ski resorts can be found on a map of Austria. Villages and towns are packed tightly together, so it will be easy to find the right place.

Ski resort for every taste

The life of Austrians is closely connected with skiing, so the resorts are designed for everyone who is interested in quality winter recreation.

We list the key areas and levels of skier training, linking them with specific resorts:

  • Beginners. Feel free to go to Obertauern, Serfaus, Mayrhofen, Kaprun, Saalbach.
  • Confident skaters. You'll love Ischgl, Bad Gastein, St. Anton, Saalbach, Kitzbühel, Obergurgl and Galtur.
  • Wealthy people. The most elite resorts are Ischgl, Lech, Seefeld, and St. 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 are suitable for you.
  • Cross-country skiing. The best areas 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 slopes of Kaprun and Mayrhofen. Now we have to go to the border region between Vorarlberg and Tyrol - this is where the magnificent Saalbach lies. 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 advantages of the resort:

  • 200 trails of all difficulty levels;
  • abundance of snowboarding and ski schools;
  • availability of entertainment venues with live music;
  • bowling alley;
  • pool;
  • excellent weather conditions.

Also worth paying attention to is Obertauern. “Upper Tower” is what the Austrians called the resort, which was completely covered in fluffy snow. The weather allows you to ride here until April. Excellent service combined with moderate (for elite resort) prices.

Thermal springs and recreation with children

For those who want to combine skiing with health 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 a holiday in the thermal baths, and at the same time visit spa salons. Most popular resort in these lands is Gastein.

Lech and Zell am See are ideal for family holidays. You need to go to Lech via Innsbruck. This prestigious resort, which not everyone can afford.
Among the undeniable advantages are a wide selection of slopes, “soft” slopes and reputable ski schools.

The town of Zell am See, nestled on the coast of a picturesque mountain lake, deserves special mention. An abundance of short descents will allow children to hone the skills acquired in classes with an instructor.

Additional advantages of the resort include:

  • kindergartens;
  • torchlight processions;
  • carnivals;
  • medieval architecture;
  • natural halfpipe;
  • four snowboard parks.

Price panorama

Calculating the cost of travel to each of the resorts we described is quite difficult. The budget will depend on the chosen hotel, room, method 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;
  • Kitzbühel – from 42;
  • Kirchberg – from 42;
  • Innsbruck – from 30;
  • Montafon – from 27.

On average, it costs about a thousand dollars per person per week (if you choose a package tour). The price will include accommodation, air ticket, insurance and visa.

Here are specific examples of package ski tours:

  • Lech – 950 dollars/week (a six-day ski pass will cost 214 “green”);
  • Sant Anton – 1000 (plus 193 bucks for a six-day ski pass);
  • Saalbach-Hinterglemm – 700 (plus $164 for 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 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 at the height of summer and enjoy alpine skiing. But Ixtl is significantly more expensive - the minimum budget you will have to set aside for a week is 1000 euros.

To summarize, we note that Austria in winter is to the liking of both seasoned professionals and beginner skiers. Many resorts are suitable for children, so it’s quite possible for the whole family to have a blast. The main thing is to know what you want and how much you are willing to spend.

Here you can ski until you lose all strength, without ever 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 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

Data:

– length of tracks: 133 km;

– the resort will appeal to apres-ski fans and active rest 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 ten largest ski regions The ski area in Sölden is the highest in Austria - 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 trails end right at the après ski bars - you can relax after skiing in Sölden until the morning.

Data:

– 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 Munich International Airport 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

Data:

– 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, lower station cable car on Hahnenkamm 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.

Data:

– 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 is still worth going here - especially since this is one of the best resorts in the Alps in terms of transport accessibility.

Data:

– 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;

– an ideal resort for snowboarders - there are practically no long gentle slopes and flat traverses, but there are several snow parks.

Naked numbers:

– 91 cable cars;

– 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.

They open their doors to millions of tourists from November to April, and on the top 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 the federal states of Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Austrian ski centers known throughout the world for the excellent quality of the trails, 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 add 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, it 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 a favorite place winter holiday 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 Austrian resorts. 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 night life. 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 grand show: in different 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 maintained 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. Health effect 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 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 fans, 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 hectic 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 the snowiest ski resort 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 attention Russian tourists. Therefore, if you prefer a holiday in Europe among Europeans, Nassfeld will be an excellent option for you. 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 mountain kindergarten with exciting animation programs, children's restaurants, puppet theater, children's ski school, snow towns and even lifts specially adapted for loading strollers. Another unique feature of the resort is 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.