Austria is known for its world-class ski resorts, offering diverse terrain, picturesque alpine landscapes, and charming mountain villages. Whether you’re an experienced skier, a snowboarder, or a family looking for a winter getaway, Austria has a resort to suit your needs. Here are some of the best ski resorts in Austria, where you can enjoy the ultimate winter holiday.
1. St. Anton am Arlberg
Best For: Advanced skiers, après-ski, and lively nightlife.
St. Anton, located in the Arlberg region, is one of the most famous ski resorts in Austria, known for its challenging slopes and vibrant après-ski scene. It attracts experienced skiers and snowboarders looking for both adventure on the slopes and lively entertainment off them.
- What to Expect: With over 300 kilometers of ski runs, St. Anton offers some of the best off-piste skiing in the Alps. The resort is also renowned for its après-ski, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Highlights: The Valluga area offers expert-level skiing, while the Galzig and Kapall areas are great for intermediate skiers. After skiing, head to the après-ski spots like MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh for some fun.
- Location: St. Anton am Arlberg, Tyrol.
2. Kitzbühel
Best For: A mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes, luxury, and family-friendly options.
Kitzbühel is one of Austria’s most iconic ski resorts, known for hosting the famous Hahnenkamm downhill race. The town itself is charming, with cobblestone streets and traditional Tyrolean architecture, while the slopes offer something for skiers of all abilities.
- What to Expect: Kitzbühel offers over 200 kilometers of slopes, with both challenging runs and beginner-friendly terrain. The resort is family-friendly, with excellent ski schools and child-care options, as well as après-ski activities and luxury accommodations.
- Highlights: The Streif racecourse, the site of the Hahnenkamm race, is a must-see for skiing enthusiasts. The resort is also great for après-ski, with plenty of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
- Location: Kitzbühel, Tyrol.
3. Zell am See-Kaprun
Best For: Families, beginner to intermediate skiers, and non-skiers.
Zell am See-Kaprun is a popular ski resort in Salzburg that offers guaranteed snow, thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. The resort provides a wide range of slopes and activities for all skill levels, making it ideal for families and skiers of various abilities.
- What to Expect: The resort offers over 130 kilometers of slopes, with both beginner and intermediate runs. The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier allows for year-round skiing, and the nearby town of Zell am See provides a beautiful lakeside setting for après-ski.
- Highlights: Skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier for guaranteed snow, visiting the Tauern Spa for wellness treatments, and exploring the charming town of Zell am See. Non-skiers can enjoy ice skating, tobogganing, or scenic winter walks around the lake.
- Location: Zell am See, Salzburg.
4. Ischgl
Best For: Snowboarding, après-ski, and luxury.
Ischgl, in the Silvretta Alps, is known for its modern ski infrastructure, extensive slopes, and vibrant après-ski scene. It attracts skiers and snowboarders looking for adventure, luxury, and a lively atmosphere after a day on the slopes.
- What to Expect: Ischgl offers over 230 kilometers of ski runs, including cross-border skiing into Switzerland. It’s also a popular destination for snowboarders, with terrain parks and halfpipes.
- Highlights: The Ischgl Skyfly zip-line, skiing in the Silvretta Arena, and après-ski activities at famous spots like Schlosshotel Fiss and Pacha Ischgl. Don’t miss the Top of the Mountain Concerts, which feature live performances by world-renowned artists.
- Location: Ischgl, Tyrol.
5. Sölden
Best For: Glacier skiing, après-ski, and snowboarding.
Sölden, located in the Ötztal Alps, is a high-altitude resort known for its glaciers, excellent snow conditions, and lively après-ski scene. It’s perfect for those who want to ski on glaciers and experience the excitement of the slopes and nightlife.
- What to Expect: Sölden boasts over 140 kilometers of slopes, two glaciers, and diverse terrain for all levels. Skiing on the Rettenbach Glacier ensures snow even in the off-season, making it a great choice for those who want to ski early or late in the season.
- Highlights: Skiing on the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach Glaciers, après-ski at Schirmbar and Ice Q, and visiting the Gaislachkogl peak for panoramic views. Sölden is also home to some of Austria’s best snowboarding parks.
- Location: Sölden, Tyrol.
Conclusion
Austria offers a diverse range of ski resorts that cater to every type of skier and snowboarder. Whether you’re looking for the lively après-ski atmosphere in St. Anton and Ischgl, the luxury of Lech Zürs am Arlberg, or the family-friendly vibe in Zell am See-Kaprun and Zauchensee, there is something for everyone. With world-class snow conditions, modern infrastructure, and breathtaking alpine views, Austria is the perfect destination for a memorable winter holiday.
