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 ski resorts in Austria. We will tell you about the most popular ski areas, look for thermal springs and places for quality family recreation. Particular attention will be paid to weather and prices.

Popular ski resorts in Austria

Austria is dominated by mid-altitude ski centers suitable for professionals and beginners. 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 - these are 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 presence of an international airport. we posted in the previous article.
  • . The slopes of this largest ski center in Austria occupy the slopes of two mountain peaks at once. This is an ideal place for beginners - professional ski schools, soft slopes, and an abundance 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 lakes, a museum of hydroelectric power plants, a 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 in the world ski ranking). 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 is combined with moderate (for an elite resort) prices.

Thermal springs and recreation with children

For those who want 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 a holiday in the thermal baths, and at the same time visit spa salons. The 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 is a prestigious resort that 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. We will therefore focus on prices relating 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 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.

Today, Austria is one of the leaders in receiving tourists, skiers and snowboarders. The ingredients for success are simple: a short flight, excellent slopes and many accommodation options - from luxury five-star hotels with spas and thermal springs to budget apartments. Thus, this alpine country can satisfy the needs of different categories of tourists who are in love with the mountains.

So how do ski resorts in Austria differ from each other? Where is the best place for you to go? Where is it better to relax with the whole family, and where is it better to relax with a noisy group? What are the prices for ski passes at Austrian resorts? In our material you can find answers to these questions and get information about popular and not so popular ski resorts in Austria. So, let's open 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 known for its thermal springs since the Middle Ages, quickly gained popularity among winter sports enthusiasts thanks to the many trails of varying difficulty levels. There are both very steep descents and gentle slopes for “dummies”. The ski season lasts from mid-December to April.

In addition to skiing, here you can improve your health at the Baths of St. Catherine (water temperature 24-33 degrees; 2 indoor pools and one outdoor) and the Roman Baths (water temperature 28-36 degrees; one indoor and one outdoor pool).

In the evening there are many bars, discos, various shows are held, and from 18-30 to 0-30 there is a free Apres-Ski bus.

Kutchburg

An Austrian ski resort in the state of Carinthia, which in summer turns into an excellent place for eco-tourism. Katschberg is located very close to 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 Katschberg.

Nassfeld

Nassfeld is one of the largest ski resorts in Austria in the state of Carinthia, but so far practically unknown to Russian tourists. It is partially located in Italy. Most 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 the “Alpine Monte Carlo”: a holiday here is not a cheap pleasure, but the local slopes 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 great 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 lift system 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 holidays and skiing.

  • Trails, lifts and prices of the Dachstein West and Lammertal resorts

Saalbach and Hinterglemm

This Austrian ski resort in the Glemmtal Valley, thanks to its many interesting slopes, both steep and gentle, has gained popularity among many ski lovers of various skill levels. The villages of Saaalbach and Hintreglemm are located very close to each other, at an altitude of 1003 and 1050 meters respectively. At the same time, Saalbach traditionally has more tourists than the less noisy Hinterglemm. Both villages are surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

  • Trails, lifts and prices of the resorts 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 its magnificent slopes, but also with its 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 trails.

Obertauern

One of the most exciting Austrian resorts in terms of skiing, this is where the steepest and most difficult slopes in the land of Salzburg are located, although there is more than enough space for beginners. The village of Obertauern itself is quite small, but with its own Alpine flavor.

Zell am See and Schuttdorf

Situated at an altitude of 760 meters on the shores of a beautiful lake, the town of Zell am See offers its visitors a wonderful holiday and skiing on the quality slopes of the Schmittenhöhe mountain. In addition, you can go shopping in the town.

The administrative part of Zell am See, the resort of Schuttdorf is less famous than its larger neighbor, but it is combined with it by one ski area, and is also more suitable for those who do not mind saving a little on accommodation. There are many excellent cafes, shops and discos, so there is plenty to do in Schuttdorf after skiing.

  • Trails, lifts and prices of the resorts Zell am See and Schuttdorf

Schladming

Situated in the Dachstein Mountains in Styria, the resort is particularly attractive for extreme riding enthusiasts and freeriders, as the area has several excellent off-piste slopes. However, most of the slopes in Schladming are red, so even not the most experienced skiers have room to turn around. The largest ski area is the Planai area. Schladming itself has long gained a reputation as one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Sportvelt Amade

The Sportvelt Amade is 10 ski areas combined with one ski pass. There are a huge number of trails suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. Among the towns and villages included in this region, there are ancient ones - St. Johan im Pongau, Altenmarkt and Radstadt, as well as the more modern small towns of Eben, Flachau, Filzmoos, Wagrain and Kleinarl. Especially worth highlighting is Flachau, which combines a wonderful ski resort and a place where you can have great fun. In addition, it was in Flachau that Hermann Mayer, nicknamed “The Herminator,” one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, was born.

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 most beautiful villages in Austria. Westendorf is best suited for families who prefer a quiet and relaxing holiday and comfortable skiing. This is also a good place to take your first steps into the world of skiing.

Akzamer Lycium

A ski resort in the state of Tyrol that has twice hosted the Olympic Games. Despite this, Axamer remains a quiet mountain village adjacent to Lycium, a beautiful basin ideal for skiing.

Galtyur

An ideal place for those who prefer silence, privacy and quiet skiing to the noise of large ski resorts. Galtür is located near Ischgl, just a 15-minute drive, but it is both quieter and cheaper. This small alpine village, by the way, is located at a fairly high altitude - 1584 meters.

Gerlos

This beautiful ski resort is located near the border of the states of Tyrol and Salzburg and is considered the pearl of the region. There are not only many excellent slopes here, located at a decent altitude and guaranteed to be covered with snow, but also excellent 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 ski tracks in the country, for which this place is primarily famous, which, by the way, 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 it can be said that it has not lost its 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 Valley (Ötztal) and is adjacent to other popular resorts in the area - Ventem, Hochseldenem, Hochgurgl and Obergurgl. According to some reports, 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 has an elongated shape 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, hosted the Olympics twice.

Ischgl

Ischgl is one of the resorts (together with Samnaun) of the Silvretta ski area, and its main difference from many others is its hyperactive life, many tourists, discos, parties, combined with stunning slopes for skiing (though not extreme). The resort gained popularity about 30 years ago and since then has the reputation of being one of the most popular in the whole country.

Kappl

Kappl is a fairly small resort very close to Ischgl, and both have the same ski pass. Kappl is a calmer and more peaceful resort and is covered with snow all season due to its altitudes.

Kirchberg

A fairly well-known Tyrolean resort, located 6 kilometers from Kitzbühel and connected with it by ski lifts. In general, from Kirchberg you can easily reach other ski resorts in the Pengelstein and Hankenkamm area. Kirchberg is considered a not-so-quiet resort - there are plenty of après-ski bars, restaurants and noisy discos, so nothing can stop you from having a great time after skiing.

Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel has long been known as one of the most popular and famous ski resorts not only in Austria, but throughout the world. Kitzbühel declared itself as a skiing center back in the 20s of the last century. Today you can see both the “powers that be” skiing here, staying in luxury hotels in the region, and many young people who eagerly hang out after skiing in ancient Kitzbühel. One of the pearls of the resort is the Streif slalom track, famous far beyond the borders of Austria, which hosts stages of the world championships.

Mayrhofen

Located in the famous “Tyrol Valley”, the resort of Mayrhofen is considered one of the best ski resorts - everything here is connected with this sport, and the local valleys and slopes will not leave any speed skiing fan indifferent. In total, the region unites 4 valleys, of which the most famous is the Tuxertal with the Hintertux glacier. The Ahorn area is suitable for “dummies”, Penken for the more experienced, and Hintertux for the “advanced”.

Neustift

This is a small Tyrolean village in the Stubai Valley, just a couple of tens of kilometers from Innsbruck. One of the skiing centers of the region is the Stubai Glacier, to which a free ski bus runs along the valley from Innsbruck. The resort of Neustift includes the tiny ski villages of Neustiftdorf, Kampl and Neder. Innsbruck Airport is only 26 kilometers from Neustift, so you can get there by taxi or bus.

Obergurgl and Hochgurgl

These are two fraternal villages at the end of the famous ski valley Otztal (Etztal), located at a decent altitude - about 2 kilometers above sea level. In fact, 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 of the Obergurgl and Hochgurgl resorts

St. Anton

This resort is iconic for the world of skiing. It was here that the first ever competitions took place in 1904, and in 1922 the world’s first ski school was opened. St. Anton is included, together with the resorts of St. Christoph, Zürs, Lech, Oberlech and Stuben, in the famous and popular Arlberg ski region. Riding here is not so cheap, but the prices for accommodation are more or less reasonable.

Serfaus

A fairly new ski resort in the western part of Tyrol, near 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 in the country.

Fulpmes

Fulpmes is one of the ski resorts in the Stubai Valley with excellent slopes, toboggan runs, skating rinks, etc. It is a beautiful Alpine town with a wonderful atmosphere created by the historical center with its cozy bars and shops. Fulpmes's ski area is called Schlick 2000.

Fügen

A beautiful resort town in the Ziller Valley, famous, among other things, for its Gothic architecture. Fügen consists of two parts - Fügen itself and Fügenberg. The main ski areas are Spieljoch and Hochfügen. The first is great for family skiing, the second will appeal more to skilled skiers and snowboarders. Innsbruck Airport is located 40 kilometers from Fugen, Munich - 130. From the airports you can get to the resort by shuttle bus or by train to Jenbach station and by bus to Fugen.

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 après-ski fans, outdoor enthusiasts 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 the ten largest ski regions in Austria, the ski area in Sölden is the highest - 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. A regular bus leaves from the station every hour; the trip 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, the lower station of the Hahnenkamm cable car 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:

– the highest point of 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 is the Wilder Kaiser/Brixental ski world. 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 the local railway, which will take you to the lower cable car station in Hopfgarten in 10 minutes.

The most popular ski resorts in Austria:

Land of Tyrol (Ischgl, Serfaus, Sölden, Seefeld, Mayrhofen, Kitzbühel, and others)

Voralberg Land (St. Anton, Lech)

Salburgerland (Saalbach, Zell Am See, Kaprun, Badgastein, Badhofgastein and others)

How to choose a resort?

There are many ski resorts in Austria, and even more so, a lot of hotels. In order not to make a mistake in choosing the appropriate level of pistes, the availability of thermal pools, apres-ski, or a hotel, it is important to work with a knowledgeable and reliable partner. It is with such partners that we select, specifying all your wishes, a resort, a hotel, and a comfortable flight. We think through every component of your vacation. And in addition to making the right choice, the partner you trust will check the availability of a specific room in a specific hotel, make sure that your check-in is comfortable and smooth, and will always be there if you have any questions during your vacation.

The main advantages of skiing in Austria are a huge selection of slopes, modern infrastructure, thoughtful pricing policy and, of course, the famous Austrian “apres ski”. How to choose the right route for your ski trip to Austria? There are opportunities for winter holidays in Austria at any resort. We hope that our information will help you make the right choice.

Brief overview of ski resorts in Austria:

1. Ski resorts with the most extensive ski area

There will never be a shortage of different trails to choose from. You can choose a new route for yourself every day.
Ischgl - 210 km of pistes
Ziller Valley (Mayrhofen - Zell am Ziller - Hippach) - 624 km of pistes
Region "Arlberg" (St. Anton - Lech - Zürs) - 276 km of pistes
Saalbach-Hinterglemm - 200 km of pistes

2. The highest ski resorts in Austria.

The high altitude of the resort guarantees good snow throughout the season.
Sölden + Obergurgl - Hochgurgl - max. 3250 m
Mayrhofen - max. 3250 m
Kaprun - max. 3030 m
Arlberg (St. Anton, Lech) - max. 2868 m

3. The most youthful and fun ski resorts in Austria.

After skiing, numerous bars and restaurants, night shows and discos, fashion shops and many other entertainment await you. It's always noisy and fun here.
Sölden, Mayrhofen, St. Anton, Ischgl, Saalbach, Kitzbühel, Zell Am See.

4. Resorts for a relaxing and respectable holiday.

Here you will find a calm and measured holiday + excellent skiing.
Obergurgl+Hochgurgl (near Sölden). Family resorts with a relaxed, homely atmosphere.
Lech and Zurs. Lech is more expensive and pretentious, attracting VIP guests and celebrities. Zurs is quieter, calmer and more homely (but no less expensive).
Seefeld. An elegant and inexpensive resort for VIP guests. A favorite vacation spot for the European artistic elite.
Bad Gastein / Bad Hofgastein. Resorts for the respectable public. There are casinos, thermal baths, and restaurants. The atmosphere at the resort is calm and respectable. People come here for health and inspiration.

Hinterglemm (near Saalbach). Calm, family resort.

5. Alpine skiing in Austria, best for children.

Children's ski gardens, amusement parks, mini-clubs, children's schools, and children's discos are waiting for your children.
Serfaus is an ideal option. A specialized resort designed primarily for families with children. Many hotels specialize in family holidays. The resort has 2 huge children's amusement parks and much more.
Sölden, Mayrhofen, Zell am See

6. Austrian mountains, the most popular among snowboarders.

The best conditions for snowboarding: fan parks, slopes, opportunities for freeride and freestyle.
Ischgl (one of the four best European snowboarding areas)
Serfaus, Fiss (according to the Austrian snowboarders themselves, Serfaus is the best in Austria for this sport)
Sölden (the season opens every year with the Snowboard World Cup)
St. Anton (one of the best snowboarding areas in the world)
Zell am See (considered an ideal place for beginner snowboarders)Zillertal Valley (Zell am Ziller, Mayrhofen, Hintertux)

In such places there are many wide and easy trails, which are very convenient for beginners to practice alpine skiing.
Serfaus, Seefeld, Oberlech, Zell am See, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, Saalbach

8. Ski resorts in Austria, popular among professionals.

These resorts have many interesting and challenging trails for advanced skiers.
St. Anton, Lech, Ischgl, Innsbruck, Sölden, Mayrhofen, Kitzbühel

9. Austrian resorts with ample opportunities for off-piste skiing:

Hinterglemm, St. Anton / Lech / Zürs, Kitzbühel

10. Ski tours that combine skiing opportunities and thermal resorts:

Sölden/Längenfeld (Aqua Dome)
Badgastein, Badhofgastein

11. Resorts with glacier skiing areas.

These resorts offer year-round skiing!
Innsbruck, Mayerhofen, Sölden, Zell Am See

Alpine skiing is Austria's No. 1 sport. New ski slopes and hotels are opened here every year, infrastructure is improved, services are improved, and new air routes are opened. In total there are about 800 skiing regions in Austria. Most of them are located in Tyrol, Salzburg region, Vorarlberg. Less - in Carinthia and Styria. Alpine skiing has been very popular in Austria for a long time.

Ski tours to Austria - these are extensive ski areas and a wide variety of slopes; comfortable and cozy hotels, boarding houses and apartments for every taste and budget and a good price-quality ratio; democratic atmosphere and very varied apres ski.

Alpine skiing tours in Austria are available to you throughout the year, because... the country has 8 year-round ski resorts located on glaciers.

How to get there:

You can get there on direct charter flights to Salzburg and Innsbruck, as well as on direct regular flights of Austrian Airlines from Dnipro and Kiev. It is also convenient to get to Tyrol from Munich, where there are direct regular flights from Kyiv. Klagenfurt Airport is located 3 km from the capital of Carinthia. You can only fly to this airport with a transfer.

LAND TYROL

This is one of the most interesting mountain regions in the world. The most famous resorts, castles and other attractions are located here. Tyrol is often called the “heart of the Alps”. There are about 600 mountain peaks in Tyrol with a height of more than 3000 m. Five high-mountain glaciers. There are more than 119 ski areas in total. For snowboarders, 32 ski areas in Tyrol have created fun parks with jumps, halfpipes and other obstacles.


Sölden is considered one of the best ski centers in Austria. Guaranteed snow cover (2 glaciers). 150 km of varied trails. Excellent opportunities for freeriding. Very good opportunities for snowboarders. Excellent opportunities for après ski. Noisy discos and bars, a large sports center with swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzi, bowling. The prices are quite affordable.

Elevation difference - 1377 - 3250 m. / 141 routes - 23 blue, 73 red, 45 black.

Kitzbühel

A cute town with a small historical center. Perfect for ski safari lovers and snowboarders. Fashionable party. Casino. Excursions and other sports are offered. Suitable for both young people and athletes, and for families with children.

Elevation difference - 800 - 2000 m / 327 pistes - 73 blue, 71 red, 23 black.


For many years now, it has rightfully maintained the image of the most prestigious and sought-after resort. It is famous for its slopes, most of which are located above 2000 m, so the season lasts until the beginning of May. Excellent opportunities for both skiers and snowboarders. And also for après ski and shopping. Many fashionable and prestigious bars, restaurants, discos, boutiques of elite brands.

The resort is famous for its rich range of entertainment events. The most interesting part of the resort life of Ischgl begins in the evening after 22.00-23.00 hours and continues until dawn. Particularly popular among resort guests are the Kushtal bar, which offers relaxation right outside in good weather, and the Trofana Alm cafe. Disco lovers prefer to have fun in hotel nightclubs, such as the Wunderbar in Madlein or the disco bar of the Elisabeth Hotel, where strip shows are held, and the Tene club is considered the most impressive. More accessible entertainment is curling, bowling, hang gliding, horse riding. The city has a sports complex with saunas and swimming pools. The performances of world-famous stars, marking the opening of the ski season, also brought considerable fame to the resort. Ischgl has many shops and boutiques. In addition, it is convenient to travel to the Swiss resort of Samnaun, where duty-free shopping flourishes. Local Duty Free sells tobacco products, alcohol and perfume. When shopping, you should not get too carried away, as customs officers may check overloaded bags and backpacks.

Elevation difference - 1377 - 2864 m. / 200 pistes - 30 blue, 130 red, 40 black.

The total length of the trails is 238 km, the black trails alone are 45 km!

Trofana Royal 5* is a luxury hotel with a huge wellness center, a gourmet restaurant awarded a Michelin star and luxurious rooms. Located 100 m from the cable car.

Piz Buin 4*sup. - a very popular hotel thanks to its high quality for reasonable money. The hotel is completely renovated, excellent rooms, large spa complex. Hotel ski in/ski out.

Elisabeth Arthotel 5* is a luxurious hotel with new, magnificent rooms. The hotel is a few meters from the cable cars. The spa complex is located on the top floor with panoramic windows.

Mayrhofen

The most democratic resort. Cheerful, youthful, noisy. The skiing is very interesting and varied. There is a separate area for children and beginners. Guaranteed snow cover on the Hintertux Glacier (20 minutes from Mayerhofen by bus). Holidays here are quite economical. Guests can enjoy not only skiing, but also snowshoeing, rock climbing, and paragliding. Hot air balloon flights and much more.

Elevation difference - 600 - 2095 m. / 143 pistes - 42 blue, 84 red, 17 black.

Serfaus - Fiss - Ladis

A resort that boasts 100% snow from November to March. What’s interesting is that there are no cars or ski buses at the resort, only sleds, motorized sleds, and teams.
Elevation difference - 1200 - 2700 m. / 160 pistes - 40 blue, 96 red, 24 black.

Serfaus, which has gained the status of a family resort, does not boast as intense a nightlife as other ski resorts in Austria. There are only two discos here - Filou Bar Dancing and Noldis Kellerbar, whose dance floors can accommodate 180 and 100 people respectively. The main entertainment remains night sledding, but every village of Serfaus has excellent conditions for active recreation. Guests can enjoy paragliding flights, allowing you to enjoy the majestic mountain landscapes, and exciting sleigh rides along a track that rises to a height of 500 m and then descends into the valley. In Comperdelle, one of the Serfaus stations, there is a “Take off Center” - a rental point for the most modern equipment. Here you can find everything, even scooters, and for a fee you can learn up to four new sports in one day. The new fan park “Tubing-park” has created excellent conditions for riding scooters and skidoo - motorized sleds on ski-tracks. Not far from “Tubing-park” there is a mini-skidoo park for children from 6 to 16 years old. Once a week, from 6 to 10 p.m., a torch show by instructors from the Serfaus ski school is held on Copmerdell with fireworks, light and color special effects; Drinking gluwein contributes to general merriment. The show program includes the “dance of snowcats” - bulky machines for rolling snow.

Hotel Lowe & Bar 4* - a hotel consisting of two buildings - Lowe 4*sup. and Bar 4*. Excellent family hotel with alpine style rooms. The hotel has everything for children - a playroom, Hipp baby and canned food, a real water park. For adults - a luxurious spa center, outdoor and indoor heated pools.

Hotel Cervosa 5* - the hotel combines modernity and Tyrolean-Alpine style. Expensive luxury hotel. Gorgeous views of the mountains from all rooms, a huge wellness center, outdoor and indoor pools, a restaurant with gourmet cuisine.

Hotel Alfa 4* - the hotel opened in 2012. Located just a couple of minutes walk from the ski area. The hotel is of a very good standard for a reasonable price. Nice rooms, spa complex.


This is one of the most popular and famous mountain regions in Austria. It is located on the border of Tyrol and Vorarlberg. There are five resorts in the entire region, united by a ski area and a shared ski pass. Heliskiing is very popular in this region - skiing on virgin soil with a helicopter transfer to the top.

St. Anton

It occupies one of the first places among the elite ski centers of the world. Overall assessment: variety of slopes, their length, excellent ratio of the length of slopes and lifts. In general, skiing here is for experienced and well-prepared people.

Elevation difference - 1304 - 2868 m. / 160 pistes - 40 blue, 80 red, 40 black.

Leh is considered the most fashionable and prestigious in high society. One of the first ski lifts was built here. The tracks rise directly from the hotels. The village has a unique appearance thanks to the grandiose landscape around it.

Elevation difference - 1450 - 2453 m / 260 pistes - 100 blue, 100 red, 60 black.

Saalburgerland

There are 25 large ski areas in the region.

Bad Gastein - Bad Hofgastein

Thermal springs + interesting skiing. Suitable for family and relaxing holidays. In addition to skiing, you can take courses of treatment or health improvement.

Elevation difference - 830 - 2686 m. / 201 routes - 60 blue, 117 red, 24 black.

In Bad Hofgastein, nightlife is calm and measured, but the resort has acquired the status of an elite and prestigious holiday destination thanks to its healing thermal springs. The Thermal Temple health and wellness center has developed a set of treatment procedures aimed at restoring health and relieving fatigue. Wellness programs use minerals, oils and herbs, various types of baths, mud and serum treatments, all kinds of scrubs and douches. Underwater therapy carried out in a thermal pool is especially effective for diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Bad Hofgastein has apres-ski restaurants on the mountain tops, and the large leisure center at Stubenkogel station offers an alternative to winter fun. Guests can enjoy playgrounds, children's cinemas, a children's playroom and computers. There are also kindergartens.
Recommended hotels:

Norica Therme 4* (Bad Hofgastein) - a hotel with an underground passage directly to the thermal baths, through which hotel guests can go directly to the thermal pools in their bathrobes. The ski lift is 400 meters away. Cozy rooms, excellent cuisine.

Osterreichischer 4* (Bad Hofgastein) is a small, cozy hotel. The rooms are decorated in warm colors. There is also a covered passage to the thermal baths. Like everywhere else, there is a spa complex.

Das Alpenhaus Gastein 4* (Bad Hofgastein) is an Alpine-style hotel after recent renovation. Tasty and healthy food is the pride of the hotel. The thermal complex is 300 meters away, the ski lift is 500 meters away, a ski bus runs.

Goal Am See - Kaprun

A town with its own history. There is a variety of skiing for skiers of all skill levels. Very funny. Many discos/bars, restaurants with varied cuisine. Thanks to the developed railway connection, you can visit many attractions located in the region. The goal of Am See can be called economical.

Elevation difference - 760 - 2000 m. / 75 trails - 25 blue, 25 red, 25 black.


This is one of the largest mountain regions in Austria. The skiing in the region is simply wonderful. The network of lifts is well thought out. There are ski and snowboard schools for both children and adults. A very noisy and fun après ski, often until late at night. Good conditions for snowboard lovers.

Elevation difference - 1000 - 2100 m. / 200 pistes - 15 blue, 95 red, 90 black.

Very interesting après-ski of Saalbach. Young people have fun until the morning in discos, bars and restaurants with live music, and Austrian national shows are popular among tourists of all ages. Guests can enjoy cozy alpine huts, horse-drawn sleigh rides, sports centers with swimming pools and saunas, and a bowling alley.

Hinterglemm has indoor tennis courts, an indoor swimming pool and an ice skating rink. As part of the annual Russian Ski Weeks program, Hinterglemm hosts many events for Russian tourists, including noisy folk festivals. The party club "Avalanche" and the more reputable club "Classic" are always happy to welcome guests - lovers of evening entertainment.

The resort of Sölden is known for its lively and noisy atmosphere after a day of skiing. It offers numerous apres-ski establishments and 23 cozy mountain huts. Eight discos in Sölden, 26 bars and pubs invite you to have fun and dance until dawn. For fans of active daytime recreation, there are sled and cross-country ski slopes, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and a sports center with a swimming pool, sauna and solarium. Horseback riding, snowmobile riding, and snowshoe hiking are possible. There is a cinema.

The resorts of Obergurgl and Hochgurgl are quiet and peaceful at night. For late-night lovers, only the Nederhuette restaurant and the Edelweiss hotel bar are open. Those who want to listen to Tyrolean singing (yodeling) should visit the “KrumpnStadl” at the Austria Hotel and the “Hexenkuch"l” at the Jenewein Hotel. The main apres-ski entertainment is ice skating and swimming in the indoor pool.

AUSTRIAN CUISINE

Surely, when you hear the word “Austria” you will immediately think of Vienna, the waltz, and, of course, the delicious Viennese apple strudel, because Viennese pastries are some of the most luxurious in the world.

About Austrian cuisine, first of all, it should be said that it is very traditional, in the sense of its regionality. Tyrolean cuisine has a strong Italian influence, while Salzburg has German influence; but in general there is a lot in common with the cuisines of Eastern Europe (the imperial past, after all): with Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovenia. And also with Turkey. This is due to long-term military conflicts. In particular, the famous strudel (or strudel - an apple roll made from very thin dough) is of Turkish origin, as is the Viennese coffee culture (Kaffehaus). The influence of other countries is visible even in the names: Salzburg dumplings, Viennese strudel, Linzer torte, Burgenland kripfels, etc.

Today, Austrian cuisine remains one of the few that necessarily includes first courses in the lunch menu. And for the second - meat again, most often beef or pork. The Austrians themselves, in order to introduce their cuisine, recommend trying boiled beef in the old style, Beuschel - a delicacy from the heart and lungs of domestic animals, Kuttelgrostel - tripe and Buchteln - pies with filling. And of course goulash (for example, from Jerusalem artichoke), perhaps the most popular dish in Austria. Instead of seasonings and spices, they prefer onion rings fried in oil.

Due to the distance from the sea, fish is not very popular, except for river fish. But carp is a must at Christmas. And the tourist gastronomic clichés are, of course, Wiener schnitzel, Sachertorte and Austrian beer.

There are few countries that are as strongly associated with alpine skiing as Austria. Ski Austria is as stable a combination as Mozart and Vienna - and there is every reason for this: many winter resorts with well-developed infrastructure, a variety of high-quality slopes on which you can ski for a record number of months a year, and a large-scale après ski, which has long become a byword. the talk of the ski community. In general, no matter how you look at it, it turns out that for a solid A ski holiday you need to go to Austria - this country is guaranteed not to disappoint your expectations.

A lot has been said about the advantages of winter Austria, and it would not be superfluous to put them together. Let's start with the main factor for every conscious skier - the variety and grooming of the slopes. Here, Austria did not disappoint (as well as on other issues) - in the Tyrol region alone, the unofficial capital of the local “skiing”, tourists have a choice of more than 20 resorts with a wide variety of slopes - gentle and steep, for “averages” and pros, “recreational” and "technical".

Austrian pistes are well-groomed to the envy of many competitors in snow tourism - the slightest irregularities are instantly removed from the perfectly flat surface of the piste, and the dense snow cover is monitored with no less care - if anything happens, snow cannons immediately come into play. However, everything is in order with the snow supply in skiing Austria: its alpine part is generously strewn with glaciers, freezing the surface of the mountain from the inside, so that the snow in many resorts falls already in November and does not melt until April.

It is not necessary to stick to pompous resorts - in Austria there are a large number of less popular cities with very reasonable prices.

The next nice feature of winter Austria is the extensive ski areas, consisting of neighboring resorts united by a single ski pass. For example, you can travel around the picturesque Zillertal Valley without additional expenses by purchasing a “ski pass” (Zillertal Superskipass) for five resorts at once - and this is as many as 668 km of slopes for any level of athletes. With a fairly reasonable cost - about 287 EUR per week, such a ski pass will greatly diversify your ski holiday.

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Finally, let’s mention one more feature of skiing in Austria - apresski! Even the most fanatical conquerors of slopes and heights need to “break away from society and fall” - in a pleasant figurative sense: drink a glass or two of mulled wine or “hang out” in a nightclub. In this regard, Austria has the honor of offering the best discos in the Alps, which literally thunder throughout Europe, pompous restaurants with Michelin stars and a lot of shopping opportunities at ski resorts - you can find there everything your heart desires: from traditional chronometers to gilded garden blades.

Of the few disadvantages of skiing in Austria, we can only mention the rather high price tag. You won't be able to ride cheaply here. At the same time, it is not necessary to go to pompous resorts - in Austria there are a large number of less popular cities with more reasonable prices. At the same time, the slopes and infrastructure are excellent everywhere.

Resorts of Tyrol

Traditionally, the best skiing area is Tyrol. Its central part includes the state capital Innsbruck, site of the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976, and areas such as Ranger Kempfl, Patscherkofel, Hungerburg-Seegrube, Glusenger, Mutterer Alm. This also includes part of the ski villages of the Zillertal Valley and the famous resort of Seefeld, which provides a wide range of entertainment besides skiing.

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Resorts of Salzburg

No less interesting in terms of skiing are the resorts that are part of the land of Salzburg. Zell am See, Kaprun, Saalbach - Hinterglemm, with a well-developed tourist infrastructure, numerous ski lifts and 130 km of pistes, attract a large number of tourists every year. The Großglockner High Road is a local natural attraction. Prices on the page are as of November 2018.

The best ski resorts in Europe and the world

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