Austria is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders from all over Europe. They are lucky to have a long snow period, so it is one of the best places to go for guaranteed snow-filled fun! Plus, Austria has charming villages and hospitality that will have you coming back season after season. But with over 400 resorts to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming picking the right one!
Here’s some of our favourite Austrian ski resorts:
For us, Innsbruck is a fantastic place to start if you’ve never skied before. Not only does it have an airport you can easily fly into from the UK, but it also has snowy peaks for any ability and a gorgeous town to explore. In 2019, Innsbruck introduced the Ski Plus City Pass, which gives you entry to 13 nearby ski areas, three swimming pools and 22 of the city’s museums and other attractions.
From the beginner-friendly slopes of Mutteralm to the challenging off-piste terrains of Axamer Lizum, or even the après-ski in the city, there really is something for everyone.
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate
The lovely area of Lech is somehow still something of a hidden gem, even though it is one of the largest ski areas in the world! But don’t let its size fool you, Lech still has plenty character and charm and you’re sure to fall in love with this winter wonderland. We’d recommend Lech for more advanced skiers, thanks to multiple snow parks and un-pisted back country routes but intermediate skiers shouldn’t shy away, as they also cater to you with many runs to choose from.
Lech is also popular with the rich and famous, so keep your eyes peeled for a celebrity sighting!
Great for: Intermediate, Advanced
No matter your skill level, Mayrhofen has a slope for you! It is a very popular resort, especially for those traveling from the UK. One of the main attractions to Mayrhofen is Snowbombing Festival, the world’s largest (and arguably best) winter music festival. It’s an incredible experience and one to add to the bucket list of any avid skier. Mayrhofen village is as picture-perfect as you’d expect and turns into a party town in the evenings, to keep you entertained throughout the night.
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced
Söll is a favourite for families because of all the extra activities it has to offer, like ice skating and taking a dip in the leisure centre pools. This resort is perfect for beginners as there is so much to do if you find snow sports aren’t your thing. But, if you do go as a ski-lover, be sure not to miss out on the night skiing run for a truly magical experience.
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate
St Anton is a confident skier’s playground, as you can find some of the most challenging slopes in the Alps there. Guides are available to take you up to the Valluga lift and then down to Zürs, taking in all the incredible scenery along the way, or you’re able to explore the routes on your own.
The village is also very special, with the centre being proud of its car-free zone status. Once you’ve exhausted yourself on the slopes, the village gets lively!
Great for: Advanced
Ideal for intermediate skiers, Saalbach-Hinterglemm is one of the biggest ski resorts in all of Austria and is home to plenty of blues and reds to choose from. Advanced skiers can also find challenging runs on the north-facing side of the area. For mind-blowing views of Saalbach, we’d recommend the black run, The Nordabfahr piste.
If après-ski is what you’ve come for, you can find interesting haunts in Saalbach, like a goat themed bar and a former jail.
Great for: Intermediate, Advanced
As soon as you see Alpbach, you’ll understand why it’s often voted Austria’s most beautiful village. It’s dripping in charm, tradition and everything you’d hope from a snow-covered holiday, making it perfect for a romantic getaway. The slopes are fantastic for beginners and intermediate skiers alike and the local bars are full of fun.
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate
Kitzbühel is home to the world famous Hahnenkamm downhill skiing race, held annually since 1931. It’s an incredible sight to see, and if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a spectator’s ticket, it’s well worth the trip. It is a notoriously dangerous run, with blind drops and unforgiving grade steeps, so isn’t for the faint of heart, even if you’re just watching!
Although don’t let us put you off heading there for a ski trip of your own, the terrain across the resort is great for intermediates.
Great for: Intermediate, Advanced
If you’re wanting to party, look no further than Ischgl. It’s après-ski is infamous throughout Europe, if not the world! As well as partying, Ischgl has good slopes for all abilities and is a popular destination with a lot of snowboarders because of the ‘Fun Park’, which includes 35 obstacles to explore.
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced
Obergurgl is a favourite for families, because of its relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. It is also guaranteed snow until around May, which is amazing to get in those last-minute runs before summer. The quaint town is very welcoming and local eatery Nederhütte is a must-do while you’re there, its house band is a highlight!
Great for: Beginners, Intermediate
