Top Ski Resorts in Austria
Austrian ski resorts are known for their quaint Alpine charm and interconnected trails and lifts. They offer a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, making them ideal for family vacations. Austria is also more affordable than its French and Swiss counterparts, providing good value for money in terms of accommodation, dining, and ski passes. Additionally, glaciers allow for year-round skiing, and most resorts are conveniently located near major airports.
1. St. Anton am Arlberg
St. Anton is renowned for its challenging runs and is a hotspot for expert skiers. It boasts a rich skiing history and offers 280 kilometers of terrain. The resort is also famous for its vibrant après-ski scene and comfortable accommodations like the Himmlhof. St. Anton is accessible by train and is part of the EPIC Pass system.
Official site: www.Stantonamarlberg.com
2. Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel is a picturesque town that caters to all levels of skiers and is particularly known for the Hahnenkamm race. It offers 170 kilometers of pistes and is connected to the SkiWelt, expanding the available trails to 280 kilometers.
Official site: www.kitzbuehel.com
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kitzbühel
3. Lech-Zürs am Arlberg
Lech is a luxurious resort favored by celebrities, offering a mix of high-end and budget-friendly options. Zürs is known for its exclusivity and off-piste skiing. Together, they provide 350 kilometers of terrain.
Official site: https://www.lechzuers.com/en/winter/skiing/
4. Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is beloved by snowboarders and skiers alike for its terrain parks and open snowfields. It offers great value and includes Austria's steepest groomed ski run, Harakiri.
Official Site: https://www.mayrhofen.at/en/
5. Sölden
Sölden is known for its reliable snow and glacier skiing. It offers a diverse 150-kilometer terrain and a lively après-ski atmosphere.
Official site: www.soelden.com
6. Ischgl and the Silvretta Arena
Ischgl is famous for its après-ski culture and extensive ski terrain. The Silvretta Arena is ideal for intermediate skiers and offers cross-border skiing into Switzerland.
Official site: https://www.ischgl.com/en/Active/Active-Winter/Skiing-in-Ischgl
7. Söll and the SkiWelt
Söll is part of the SkiWelt, Austria's second-largest ski area, known for its affordability and intermediate-friendly slopes.
8. Zell am See
Zell am See offers stunning lake views and 408 kilometers of pistes with the Ski ALPIN Card. It's a good choice for non-skiers as well, with Salzburg nearby.
Official site: www.zellamsee-kaprun.com
9. Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Saalbach-Hinterglemm is part of Austria's largest linked trail network and is great for families and skiers of all levels.
Official site: https://www.saalbach.com/home
10. Alpbach
Alpbach is a picturesque village with access to the Ski Juwel area, offering 145 kilometers of runs and budget-friendly options.
Official site: https://www.alpbachtal.at/en
11. Innsbruck
Innsbruck is surrounded by six ski areas, including the Stubai Glacier, and is perfect for those who want to combine city life with skiing.
12. Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is picturesque and offers a variety of terrain, especially for intermediates. It's part of the Ski Amadé network.
Best Ski Resorts in Austria for Families
Resorts like Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Alpbach, Obergurgl, Ellmau, and Niederau are excellent for families, offering a mix of terrain and family-friendly amenities.
Best Ski Resorts in Austria for Snowboarders
Ischgl, Saalbach, and Kaprun are among the top choices for snowboarders, with dedicated parks and a variety of terrain.
Trail Ratings in Austria
Trail ratings in Austria differ from North America, with blue being beginner, red intermediate, and black expert. Orange trails correspond to double-black diamond.
The Best Ski Resorts in Europe & North America
For more skiing adventures, consider exploring resorts in Italy, Switzerland, France, and across the United States, from the East Coast to the Rockies.
