Austrians like to say: “We don’t talk about snow, we guarantee it!” Find out about the most popular ski resorts in Austria, climate characteristics, ski season, pistes, prices for ski passes, equipment rentals and reviews from tourists.
Most of Austria is covered by spurs of the Alps. Winter sport It is so popular in the country that there are about 1,000 ski centers here. There are plenty to choose from! The Austrians prefer to develop small traditional resort villages rather than large ski centers. Most of them are located in the middle mountains. The best ski resorts in Austria are located in Tyrol.
Exchange rate: 1 euro ≈ 84 RUB.
Climate and weather
The country lies in the continental climate zone, so in winter the ski resorts in Austria are cool. The higher it is, the colder it is: for every 100 m the thermometer drops by 0.5°C. in winter average temperature air -10°C. Mountainous areas are characterized by heavy snowfalls.
Skiing season. The ski season continues in the winter resorts of Austria from December to late March - mid-April when the snow on the slopes begins to actively melt. On high-lying glaciers, such as the Dachstein Glacier (2700 m), you can ride all year round. Most tourists try to come to winter resorts around Christmas in order to combine a holiday in the mountains with trips to the bright Christmas markets.
Ski resorts on the map of Austria
The best ski resorts in Austria
Even a seasoned expert would not be able to identify the leader among Austrian winter recreation centers. All of them are located in picturesque places and are famous for their comfort. Ski resorts Austria has first-class hotels, a professional slope maintenance system and training centers for beginners. All you have to do is find something you like!
Schladming
The list of the most popular ski resorts in Austria includes a winter recreation center in the Dachstein mountains. The resort, 90 km from Salzburg, began to develop at the end of the 19th century, and today has turned into a pleasant place for youth hangouts and off-piste skiing. There is a lot of snow in the mountains, so the season lasts until mid-April.
Trails. Of the 190 km of descents, 60 km are easy routes, and 110 km are moderate routes. There are 12 trails on the Dachstein Glacier. There is a snow park and large area for lovers of virgin lands. Most skiers ride on the Hochwurzen and Planai elephants. In these places there is the most difficult black track in the region, where World Cup stages and night slalom are held. The toboggan route is 7 km long.
Prices. A day ski pass for an adult costs 53.5€, for a student - 40€, and for a child - 27€. Renting a ski or snowboard kit for a day costs 21.5-32.4 € for adults and 10.8-16.2 € for a child. Sled rental - 7€.
Reviews. Fans of alpine skiing like that the resort has many slopes laid through the forest, and long trails that lead from the top to the foot of the mountains. Near the ski areas there are great opportunities for après-ski: bars, discos, restaurants, brand shopping, massage, saunas and spas.
Mayrhofen
The best ski resorts in Austria include a large winter recreation center located 65 km from Innsbruck. This prestigious resort, the hallmark of which is the famous narrow-gauge railway. There is a lot of après-ski entertainment for young people and the country's steepest slope, Harakiri, with an incline of 78%.
Trails. The total length is 136 km, and in the area surrounding the resort - 550 km. The ski area covers slopes from 630 to 2500 m, and is served by 57 lifts. Trails for beginners stretch for 40 km. The longest route is 10 km.
Prices. A day ski pass for adults costs 53.5 €, for youth - 42.5 €, for children - 24 €. Renting a ski set for an adult for a day costs 32 €, for a child - 18 €. Helmet rental costs 4€, and a snowboard kit costs 26€.
Reviews. Mayrhofen is considered perhaps the best ski resort in Austria for beginners. Beginners have a lot of fun on the soft slopes and can always get training from experienced instructors. Tourists enjoy the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities - for example, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are popular. There is a spacious ice skating rink on Waldbadstraße. The resort also has a 7.5 km long toboggan run.
Sölden
Sölden, one of the famous ski resorts in Austria, is located in the largest Otztal valley in the Eastern Alps. On its territory there are three peaks above 3000 m with magnificent observation decks. The resort has two snowparks, a halfpipe, nightclubs, restaurants and a large sports center, the Freizeit Arena Sölden.
Trails stretched for 145.5 km. The longest of them is 15 km, and the illuminated one is 4 km. The routes for beginners stretch for 69.5 km, the red and black routes for 29.2 km. The slopes are served by 34 lifts.
Prices. A day ski pass for adults costs 54.5€, for students - 43.5€, for seniors - 46.5€, and for children - 30€. You can rent a set of ski equipment or a snowboarding kit for the day for 33-58 €.
Reviews. Thanks to the variety of infrastructure, the resort receives flattering reviews. Vacationers enjoy the opportunity to relax in the thermal springs, swim in the indoor pool and attend fashionable night parties.
St. Anton am Arlberg
The rating of ski resorts in Austria is often topped by a recreation center located in West Tyrol, 100 km from Innsbruck. St. Anton is called the sparkling diamond in the country's winter crown. This is a universal recreation center for beginners, experienced skiers, fans of freeride, cross-country skiing and tobogganing.
Trails. The ski area starts at 1300 m and has an elevation difference of more than 1.5 km. Freeride routes stretch for 200 km. There are 130 km of slopes for beginners, 123 km of intermediate slopes, and 51 km of routes for professional skiers. The slopes are served by 90 lifts.
Prices. A full day ski pass for an adult costs 54.5€, for youth and seniors 49.5€ and for a child 32.5€. Renting alpine skis, poles, boots and a helmet for the day, depending on the model, costs 46-68.4 €. You need to pay the same amount to use a complete snowboard kit.
Reviews. Vacationers are satisfied with the après-ski resort. There are 80 cafes and restaurants, a couple of dozen shops and nightclubs here. There are saunas, jacuzzi and indoor pools. Connoisseurs active rest can go ice skating and paragliding.
Infrastructure, lifts and slopes at the resort of St. Anton
Lech
Popular ski resorts in Austria include a winter recreation center, which is part of the famous Arlberg ski area. Lech is considered the most expensive and snowy resort, as well as the cradle of skiing in the country. Celebrities and the rich are used to spending their free time on the local slopes.
Trails. The ski area has an elevation difference of 1 km. About a third of all trails are green. Difficult routes occupy 24%, and the off-piste ski area covers 200 km of slopes. Snowboarders use a halfpipe and two fan parks.
Prices. A full-day ski pass for an adult costs 54.5€, for youth and pensioners - 49.5€, and for a child - 32.5€. Renting mountain skis for 6 days costs 110-213 €, snowboard - 46-132 €, helmet - 35 €, snowshoes - 64.8 €.
Reviews. Vacationers note the incredibly high level of service and delicious Austrian food in local restaurants. The resort is recommended for skiers of any skill level and is considered great place For family vacation.
Bad Gastein
The prestigious year-round resort is located 100 km from Salzburg at an altitude of 1600 m. Due to its high cost, pretentiousness and the oldest mountain casino in the country, Bad Gastein is often called the “mountain Monte Carlo”. One of its symbols was a picturesque waterfall. In addition to skiing, here you can undergo wellness treatments in spa centers, hot radon springs and salt adits.
Trails. There are few easy slopes, so Bad Gadschein is not considered an Austrian ski resort for beginners. The slopes are dominated by red and blue runs, which are more suitable for advanced skiers. The quality of the infrastructure is so high that the resort hosts World Cup stages. There is a boardercross track, a halfpipe and a modern snow park.
Prices. The cost of a ski pass for an adult in the low season is 41.5 €, in the high season - 44.5 €. A child's ski pass costs 14-22.5 €. Children under 6 years old are allowed on the ski lifts free of charge. Renting a ski kit for adults for a day costs 21-40 €, and for a child - 7-17 €. Renting a snowboard costs 24€, a helmet - 6€, a toboggan - 5€, ski poles - 2€, snowshoes - 8€. Every year the collection of equipment for rental is updated with models of the new season.
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, rumors of which fly throughout the entire Earth. High mountain climate, snow-white slopes, amazing service - all this can be seen in Austria.
Where to go skiing in Austria: review of resorts
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 World Cup since 2002. alpine skiing. 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 also for have a relaxing holiday soul and body, not far from the resort there is the Aquadom health center.
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 climate of the country - they do not allow more precipitation to pass into the interior of the country. 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 time Since most tourists flock to the mountains, spring and early summer are 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 includes excellent hotels and inns at affordable prices. 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 for the little ones there are playgrounds.
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 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 availability international airport. we posted in the previous article. - . The routes of this largest ski center Austria occupied the slopes of two mountain peaks. 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.
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.- 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. 
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, 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 ski season ends in March.- 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.
- 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 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. 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: wide choose 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.
Holidays in the ski resorts of Austria: St. Anton, Lech, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Bad Gastein.
The Alps occupy most area of Austria, so the country is very popular among fans of skiing. The country's ski centers are mostly small traditional ski villages rather than large modern complexes. Number Austrian resorts It’s amazing - there are about a thousand of them in the country, so everyone will be able to find something to suit their taste.
Most of the ski centers here are of medium altitude, suitable for both intermediate athletes and professionals. There are high slopes in the province of Tyrol, where the most famous ski resorts in Austria are concentrated: St. Anton and Lech. Another famous ski resort, Mayrhofen, is located in the Zillertal valley, east of Tyrol. There are also unique resorts in the country that welcome guests in both cold winters and hot summers - these are Zell am See and Bad Gastein.
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Sant Anton
The resort of Sant Anton is famous for its excellent infrastructure, challenging professional trails and enchanting alpine landscapes. The fact that the resort hosted the Alpine Ski World Championships in 2001 speaks for itself. The season here lasts from December to March. The 260 km long trails are very well maintained and there is a modern well-functioning lift system. The peak of Falluga-Grat (2660 m) attracts professionals with the most difficult trails and slopes, the snow on which is not specially leveled, which makes skiing more exciting. For beginner athletes, the slope in Galzig is more suitable, where there is a ski school and rental of the necessary equipment. Since the Sant Anton resort is well known among skiers, it is recommended to book a hotel room here in advance. On the territory of the ski center there is an indoor tennis court and a cinema, as well as many restaurants and discos. The closest airport to Sant Anton is only a hundred kilometers from the village - in Innsbruck.
Lech
Lech is a very prestigious resort, which is famous for its special microclimate, which helps maintain ideal snow conditions throughout the skiing season. Highest level service at the resort attracts representatives of high society to spend winter holidays with health benefits and in conditions maximum comfort. 260 km of trails of varying difficulty allow skiers of any level to feel at ease. There is even a special children's track with the most gentle slope possible. For snowboarders there is a half-pipe and a special park. If you are tired of skiing, you can try yourself in paragliding and get a lot of new sensations. Thanks to a well-thought-out organization, the lift system in the Lech resort operates without queues. Lech is a less noisy village than Sant Anton, so it is more suitable for quiet family holidays and mature guests. But this does not mean that the resort can be boring: more than 50 restaurants, luxurious bars, a swimming pool and an ice skating rink are always at the service of vacationers. The best way to get to the resort is by train or bus from Innsbruck.
Mayrhofen
Trails large resort Mayrhofen is located on the slopes of two mountains, which are connected by a cable car built in 2007. Mayrhofen is very popular with beginners, and this is understandable: soft slopes and good schools do their job. In addition, après-ski youth entertainment is widely represented here: fashionable nightclubs and modern discos, noisy bars and restaurants, cinemas and theatrical performances.
Zell am See
The resort of Zell am See is located on the shore of the lake. Along with the neighboring resort of Kaprun, Zell am See is part of the special "Sports Europe" district, which welcomes guests from all year round different countries who want to improve their skills in a particular sport. A distinctive feature of this center is a sufficient number of short slopes, on which it is very convenient to hone your skiing skills. The resort has 10 European-level ski schools and several kindergartens, where carnivals and torchlight processions are regularly held. Due to the fact that the town was founded in the Middle Ages, it boasts beautiful old houses and shops.
Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is a resort located near Salzburg. This ski center hosts the World Cup, so the quality of the slopes here exceeds expectations. For snowboarders, the Gastein Snowboard Park and halfpipe are built here, and there is also a boardercross track. In addition to the ski resort, Bad Gastein is famous for its spa center, so everything in the city is subordinated to a healthy lifestyle: prices for nightlife are especially high. Therefore, many tourists combine healthy sports with a pleasant relaxation in a bathhouse or sauna. Plus, the resort has thermal springs, the water of which is rich in radon.
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 Mayrhofen ski resort, so beloved and popular among Russian tourist, fully offers action & fun: the famous après-ski in Brück´n Stadl, where four glasses of beer will be poured in a record 11 seconds, and discos in 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. 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 top of 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 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 local railway, which will take you to the lower cable car station in Hopfgarten in 10 minutes.
