The highest ski resorts in Austria. Ski resorts in Austria: how to find on the map, rating of the best places, weather, prices. The path ratio is

The European Sports Region (Europa-Sportregion), which includes the resorts of Zell am See, Piesendorf and Kaprun, is located in the northern part of the Austrian Alps. In terms of popularity and opportunities for outdoor activities, it has no equal in Austria. Here, at an altitude of 800 to 3000 meters above sea level, they do not talk about snow - it is guaranteed. The winter season in the region lasts from November to the end of April. But thanks to the proximity of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, skiing is possible all year round.
The ski pass of the region is valid in three ski areas: on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, in the ski area near the village of Kaprun Maiskogel and on the "home" mountain Zell am See Schmitten. The Zell am See-Kaprun region offers more than 60 ski lifts; over 130 km of ski slopes of all difficulty levels - from training and simple "blue" to interesting "red" and "black"; 200 km of flat skiing; toboggan runs, more than 10 ski schools, including for children.
There are all conditions for practicing 30 sports. This is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Guests have at their disposal indoor tennis courts, squash and horseback riding, bowling, gyms, indoor pools, saunas, a large spa complex with TAUERN SPA mineral water pools, parachuting and paragliding and much more. Zell am See (757 m) and Kaprun (786 m) - you can enjoy your vacation in any weather and at any time of the year.

The Pitztal is a ski resort famous for its glaciers and excellent skiing conditions. Here skiers will find about 129 km. trails of different difficulty levels, and you can ride on the glaciers from September to May.
The region includes three ski areas - Hochzeiger (1450-2450 m), Rifflsee (1680-2880 m) and Pitztaler-Gletscher (1740-3440 m), the last two have a single ski pass. You can also purchase a PitzRegioCard ski pass, which is valid in all ski areas of the Pitztal valley and on the lifts of the High Imst. The free shuttle takes guests anywhere in the Pitztal.
At the beginning of the valley, above the village of Jerzens, there is the largest ski area in the region - Hochzeiger. This is 40 km of various slopes, 9 lifts, a height difference of 1000 m. Trails of medium difficulty prevail here. There are opportunities for freestyle, extreme and off-piste skiing. There is a snowpark for snowboarders. There is also a 6 km illuminated toboggan run.
The lifts to the glacier and to the Rifflsee ski area are located at the very end of the valley, near the village of Mandarfen (1675 m), which is administratively part of the village of St. Leonhard. The total length of the slopes of these ski areas is 41 km, they are served by 12 lifts. There are many difficult beautiful red slopes (40 km) and a snow park with various obstacles and time measurements. There are suitable trails for beginners. The Rifflsee ski area is equipped with a special children's chair lift.
In the Pitztal ski resort, travelers are given the opportunity to try a variety of entertainment. You can watch the mountain panorama from the highest cafe in Austria (3440 meters), climbers can master 17 interesting icefalls at once, there is also the opportunity to go paragliding, curling, ice fishing or visit museums, hiking trails and temples of the valley.
Nearest railway station: Imst-Pitztal: 11 km / 24 km / 36 km

Innsbruck is a unique symbiosis of a first-class resort and a beautiful museum city with a history of about 800 years. Innsbruck is located in the heart of the Eastern Alps, at the foot of the Karwendel ridge. The height of the mountain ranges surrounding it exceeds 2500 m, which guarantees stunning views from almost anywhere in Innsbruck.
Above the city rises Mount Patscherkofel (Patscherkofel), on the slopes of which the Winter Olympic Games were held in 1964 and 1976. From them, the city inherited an excellent ski infrastructure: stadiums, ski jumps, skating rinks, various tracks and much more. Impeccably groomed slopes, which attract skiers from all over the world, offer slopes of varying degrees of difficulty and for all tastes, as well as trails illuminated at night twice a week. There are also family trails, and the smallest is waiting for the Sunny Kids Park.
The Patcherkofel ski area is located 20 km from Stubai with its numerous ski slopes. At the foot of the mountain are charmingly picturesque Tyrolean villages: Igls, Lans, Ville, Natters, Mutters, Patch.

Video: Mayrhofen , Zillertal(links to youtube)

Lake Wörth is the largest lake in the Carinthian region. On its banks there are several resort towns connected by water tram routes. In summer, the water temperature in the lake reaches +25 +27 degrees Celsius. Tourists come to the Wörthsee to swim, play golf, and also see the Cheppaslucht waterfalls, the Hochosterwitz castle, the capital of the region - Klagenfurt and the Kartti abbeys with monasteries.

The Wildschenau Valley, which brings together four picturesque villages, is located in Tyrol, 75 km from Innsbruck, 115 km from Munich, 130 km from Salzburg and 360 km from Zurich. The peculiarity of this ski resort is its idyllic seclusion, as well as wide, not crowded ski slopes, which will delight both experienced skiers who want to enjoy nature away from the noise and test themselves in the Race`n`Sport Arena professional training area, as well as beginner ski lovers and, first of all, young guests. Fan park on Schatzberg Mountain awaits snowboarders (freeride, jumps, quarter pipes, wave rides, snake, rails, Half Pipe – 90 m). A bus service is organized between the ski areas, from Thursday to Saturday there is also a night bus (from 20:00 to 03:00). Here you can also take snowshoe walks along well-groomed winter routes with a total length of 40 km, visit swimming pools and saunas, and go sledding (three tracks plus one illuminated).
In Wildschenau there is the Tyrolean Wood Museum, the Museum of Mountain Farming, and a half-hour drive in the town of Wörgl is the water park and sauna world WAVE.
Since December 16, 2012, the Wildschönau ski area has been connected to the Alpbachtal ski area in the new Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area.
Wildschönau is above all an ideal place for a family skiing holiday. The name of the valley, which combines the words wild, schön and Au, in translation “beautiful pristine valley”, speaks for itself. Guests will enjoy not only the pristine beauty of nature, but also a combination of reasonable prices and high quality.

The Telfs ski resort is located just 25 kilometers from Innsbruck in a small Tyrolean valley. It has everything for outdoor activities: an indoor pool, a sauna, a large skating rink, a toboggan run, a sports center with a large climbing wall and even a real sauna. Nearby is the large ski resort Seefeld, one of the most famous sports centers in Tyrol. Seefeld, one of the most famous sports centers in Tyrol, is located on a sunny plateau at an altitude of 1200 m, surrounded by the Karlwendel and Wetterstein mountain ranges. The proximity of Innsbruck (20 km) and the famous German resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen (20 km) only adds to the treasury of this ski area.

In the very south of Austria, in the Carnic Alps, there is one of the ten most popular ski resorts in the country - Nassfeld. This is the sunniest ski area in Austria, with an average of 100 more hours of sunshine during the winter season than in other regions. The resort is located on the border with Italy, and some slopes lead straight to the border. The elevation difference here is 1300–2020 m. Trails of varying degrees of difficulty with a total length of 110 km are served by 30 modern lifts, including the longest gondola lift in Europe, the Millennium Express. And in children's ski schools, mini-clubs and gardens, they will take care to teach skiing to the youngest guests of the resort.

On the border of the two Austrian federal states - Carinthia and Salzburg, on a sunny pass at an altitude of 1640 m above sea level, is Katschberg, ideal for a family holiday. The skiing area starts here at 2220 m, climatic conditions guarantee high-quality snow cover (all slopes are equipped with snow cannons for safety), wide pistes with a total length of 70 km provide interesting skiing for both beginners and experienced skiers. Athletes will find here 10 km of "black" slopes and the Aineck fun park. Restaurants, bars open until late in the evening and discos provide great leisure after skiing.

East Tyrol is one of the largest resort regions of Tyrol with excellent conditions for family skiing, training for beginner skiers and snowboarders. Lienz, the capital of East Tyrol, is considered the sunniest place in Austria, and the picturesque view of the Dolomites will enchant even seasoned travelers. Here is one of the highest peaks in Austria - Grossglockner (3798 m) and the Moelltal glacier (3122 m).
Well-equipped slopes, excellent infrastructure, hotels and pensions for every taste and budget make your stay here pleasant and memorable. Cross-country skiers will find excellent conditions in East Tyrol to practice their favorite sport. The region is part of Dolomiti Nordic Ski, a system of 1,300 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails in Austria and Italy.

Heiligenblut is a small village in Carinthia, at the foot of the highest mountain in Austria, Grossglockner. Its symbol is the Gothic church of St. Vincenza, which contains a sacred relic - the blood of Christ, brought from Constantinople by a crusader knight. Hence the name of the village, which in German means "holy blood".
Gold was mined in the mountains around Heiligenblut in the Middle Ages, and now the area thrives on ski tourism and mountaineering. A unique railway tunnel to Mount Flyisalm was built here, which operates only in winter, delivering tourists to the ski slopes.

The romantic and charming spa town of Baden bei Wien, surrounded by fields and vineyards, is located right next to Vienna, only 26 km away. The excellent climate with moderate heat in summer and comfortable temperatures in winter allows you to relax here at any time of the year. First of all, Baden is famous for its sulphurous springs. Even the city coat of arms, bestowed by Emperor Frederick III, depicts a man and a woman in a bath tub. The healing power of the Baden mineral waters was known to the ancient Romans. The place where warm sulphurous springs rise from crevices in the rocks, they called "aquae" - "water". At one time, the Baden baths were chosen by the crowned persons. For centuries, emperors have come here for rest and treatment. And still Baden is considered a prestigious suburb of Vienna and one of the best thermal resorts in Austria.

The balneological resort Bad Tatzmannsdorf is an ideal place for those who want to improve their health and have a good rest. It is located 116 km from Vienna, on the territory of the federal state of Burgenland. This region has long earned the love of the Austrians for its unusually beautiful nature, mild sunny climate, clean air, gastronomic traditions and excellent entertainment infrastructure.
Hydrotherapy at the resort has centuries-old traditions. The hallmark of Bad Tatzmannsdorf are mineral waters of various compositions, hot springs and peat mud. Here, such medical procedures with the use of mineral waters as baths and drinking courses are successfully applied.

Austria is a premium class in the world of ski holidays. And this is not surprising: the inhabitants of the Austrian Tyrol and Salzburg thought of it before anyone else in the world - more than 100 years ago - to skim the cream from the legendary alpine meadows not only in the emerald summer, but also in the frosty snowy winter. The first downhill competitions took place in the Austrian Alps in 1904, in 1922 the first ski school was opened, in 1928 the first lift was launched and, in fact, the ski tourism business as a whole.

For a century, hardworking, neat, stubborn Austrians have managed to build a real snow empire on the slopes of their native Alps, which includes more than 800 ski resorts and about 50 ski areas, almost 20% of which are open all year round.

Today, Austria is a leader in the reception of skiers and snowboarders. Short flights, well-equipped and diverse slopes - both for children and beginners, and for severe off-piste skiing, a wide choice of accommodation - from 5-star hotels to more than budget apartments that can be rented “purchased”, the best apre-ski in the world - all this attracts tens of thousands of tourists “armed” with skis and snowboards to the Austrian slopes of the Alps every year.

Express info by country

Austria (Republic of Austria) is a state in Central Europe.

Capital - Vein

Largest cities: Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck

Form of government- Federal Republic

Territory- 83,871 km 2 (112th in the world)

Population– 8.4 million people (94th in the world)

Official language- German

Religion– Catholicism

HDI– 0.885 (23rd in the world)

GDP– $436.88 billion (27th in the world)

Currency– euro

Borders with: Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Germany

Thanks to the visa-free travel, Austria has become much more accessible than before. We have compiled for you a list of the most interesting Austrian ski resorts that will please you with a variety of slopes and high-class service.

Attention! The ski regions of Austria have their own rules, which are somewhat different from the global ones. So keep in mind:

*traditional amateur "green" trails on the local slopes do not exist. Their place is occupied by “blue” ones - they are intended for training beginners;

*most lifts operate between 8:30 and 16:00. Only a few trails provide the opportunity for evening skiing. So it makes sense to think about evening leisure in advance;

*reservations in hotels and apartments are usually made from Saturday to Saturday: it can be difficult to check in in the middle of the week.

Ischgl

The most fashionable and pretentious ski resort in the Tyrol region. Ischgl is often called the "Austrian Courchevel" - for the same focus on expensive high-class service and an active social life off the slopes. Concerts of world-famous stars are regularly held here - Madonna, Sting, Elton John “celebrated” in Ischgl ... Another feature of Ischgl is the abundance of places for shopping: the resort has official stores of many of the world's most famous brands. As for the opportunities for skiing, they are also excellent here: 90% of the Ischgl pistes are located above 2000 m above sea level, and therefore winters with little snow do not threaten them, snow - real, alpine, sparkling - is always here. The resort is suitable for families with children: there is a ski school with more than a hundred instructors, “sharpened” for work, including with kids, and a kindergarten.

Tracks: the total length of the slopes reaches 238 km. More than half of the slopes are classified as "red" - designed for experienced skiers. There are also trails for cross-country skiing. Special expanse for snowboarders: Ischgl is one of the top snowboarding resorts in Europe. The boarders offer a half-pipe, four ski jumps and ample opportunities for off-piste skiing.

ski season: mid-November - early May.

Ski pass price: from 210 to 240 euros depending on the season (from November 24 to December 23, from January 7 to 20, from April 18 to May 1, the price of the ski pass is reduced). Children's subscriptions are cheaper - about 150 euros.

Bad Gastein

If Ischgl is the “Austrian Courchevel”, then Bad Gastein, located near Salzburg, is called the “Austrian Monte Carlo” - thanks to the oldest mountain casino, the town's classic European architecture and a wide range of après-ski options. The ski resort has several thermal springs and the corresponding infrastructure (spa and beauty salons, radon baths, salt galleries), thanks to which tourists can combine ski holidays with relaxation in the sauna and general health improvement.

Tracks: up to 220 kilometers of well-prepared slopes at altitudes up to 2700 m. More than 60% are red slopes (of medium difficulty). The resort also has cross-country skiing trails, a fun park and two half-pipes for snowboarders. There are opportunities for virgin skiing.

ski season: December - March.

Ski pass priceA: about 200 euros for six days. For children (under 15 years old) and youth (under 19 years old) prices are one and a half to two times lower.

Kitzbühel

One of the most famous and popular ski resorts not only in Austria, but throughout the world. The ancient town of Kitzbühel began to welcome skiers back in the 1920s and is now considered the cradle of Austrian skiing. You can ride not only in the (very expensive) Kitzbühel itself, but also in the regions adjacent to it, connected with the “cradle” of a common system of tracks.

For example, Kitzbühel is a stone's throw from the Söll region, which combines several small ski villages with more than humane living costs and an abundance of uncomplicated “family” slopes.

Tracks: up to 200 km of well-equipped and well-groomed slopes, more than a third of which are intended for beginner skiers, including children. However, this does not mean that a professional in Kitzbühel has nowhere to turn around: here is the steepest Streif slalom track in the Alps, which hosts the most serious world competitions in downhill: an 85-degree slope ensures a descent speed of up to 140 km / h.

ski season: December - March.

Ski pass price: about 200 euros for six days. For children (under 15 years old) and youth (under 19 years old) the resort makes a discount. Ski passes for 12 days are also available for about 320 euros.

Mayrhofen

Located in the Ziller Valley (also called the Tyrolean Valley), the resort is considered a real ski mecca of the Alps. Four narrow mountain valleys join together at Mayrhofen, each providing a variety of skiing opportunities. But, of course, the most famous is the Tuxertal valley, leading to the largest glacier in Austria - Hintertux, thanks to which Mayrhofen is possible year-round skiing. In general, the Tyrolean Valley unites ten skiing regions at altitudes from 550 m to 3286 m, interconnected both by common routes and by excellent bus links. Therefore, in order to ride the legendary Hintertux or relax in the water park in the evenings, it is not necessary to live in Mayrhofen itself: you can find inexpensive apartments in one of the nearby villages.

Tracks:up to 150 km of groomed pistes, most of which belong to the blue (beginner) or red (intermediate) categories. The length of the black slopes is up to 20 km: this also includes a slope under the eloquent name "Harakiri", the slope of which reaches 78 degrees.

ski season: year-round.

Ski pass price: 205 euros for 6 days or 377 euros for 13. Children (under 15 years old) and youth (under 19 years old) are provided with significant discounts: prices for a children's ski pass start at 92 euros for 6 days of skiing.

Kaprun

A truly fabulous place for those who want not only to have a great ride, but also to breathe in the atmosphere of the real, primordial Alps. The touching provincial town is located at the foot of the 3203 m high Kitzsteinhorn mountain, from which the “tongue” of the Kaprun glacier stretches, which makes it possible to ski all year round.

Kaprun itself is more like a classic alpine village framed by a mountain wall: there is no snobbery, noise, fuss, and therefore it is ideal for a family vacation. The local medieval castle and prepared trails for mountain walks in any season will give tourists a special atmosphere. For many years, the mountain train, which could take you to the glacier area, was considered the signature attraction of the ski resort, but it was replaced with a cable car - which is also not bad.

Tracks: about 50 km of prepared blue and red slopes, as well as over 30 km of cross-country skiing trails. If desired, enjoying the alpine atmosphere of Kaprun, from the town you can easily and quickly get by bus to Zell am See - a more modern and noisy resort with an abundance of various slopes, including black ones.

ski season: all year round.

Ski pass price: 209 euros for 6 days. For children (under 15 years old) and youth (under 19 years old) prices are reduced by about one and a half to two times.

Where to go if you…

... just learn to ski and snowboard: Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Kaprun, Lech, Serfaus, Obertauern;

… you ride confidently and love speed: Ischgl, Bad Gastein, Kitzbühel, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, St. Anton, Serfaus, Saalbach;

… love off-piste and freeride: Ischgl, Kitzbühel, Zell am See, Mayrhofen, Lech, Serfaus, Saalbach, Obertauern;

…prefer snowboarding: Ischgl, Mayrhofen and the entire Zillertal region, Bad Gastein, Sölden;

... appreciate not only mountain, but also cross-country skiing: Mayrhofen, Kaprun, Zell am See, Innsbruck;

... love to slide down the slope right to the door of the hotel: Hochgurl, Obergurgl, Obertauern, Zürs;

…thirsty for a varied holiday with a daily change of activities: Ischgl, Sölden, Lech, St. Anton, Saalbach-Hinterglemm;

…want to relax with your family and children: Kitzbühel, Kaprun, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Serfaus;

… do not ski, but want to feel the atmosphere of a ski resort and not get bored: Kitzbühel, Kaprun, Bad Gastein, Seefeld, Innsbruck;

… love delicious food: Ischgl, Kitzbühel, Bad Gastein, Mayrhofen, Seefeld, Innsbruck, Kirchberg, Seefeld;

… you need a variety of evening entertainment, parties and shopping: Ischgl, Mayrhofen, St. Anton, Obertaurn, Bad Gastein, Innsbruck, Seefeld.

Among connoisseurs of winter sports, Austria is known as the ski capital.

Nature itself has created all the conditions for the emergence and development of this popular entertainment:

• Alpine mountains occupy 70% of the territory;
• Moderately frosty and snowy winter confidently maintains its position for 4-5 months;
• The sun shines most of the days of the year.

The very first resorts appeared in Austria. Its ski schools are considered among the best in the world, because instructors with Austrian thoroughness consider it their duty not only to teach beginners the technique of skiing, but also to advise where and how to choose a ski suit, talk about the advantages and disadvantages of different manufacturers.

The number of excellent resorts is approaching a thousand. In Austria, they are distinguished by a special flavor: the center of ski life is formed around a small mountain village, whose inhabitants still honor the traditions of the original Alpine village.

Most of the resorts in this country are considered medium-high, of which the most famous are:

• Mayrhofen;
• Kaprun;
• Zell am See;
• Ischgl;
• at a considerable height in Austria are the small Tyrolean complexes of St. Anton and Lech, as well as the famous Sölden.

Description of ski resorts in Austria

Mayrhofen

One of the most famous ski resorts is Mayrhofen, located in the Simmertal valley. In Austria, it is the most popular winter holiday destination for beginner skiers. In Mayrhofen, there are 3 zones for tourists with different levels of practice:

• Ahorn - for beginners;
• Penken - for skiers who are confidently skiing;
• Glacial areas of Hintertux, which, according to experts, are the most interesting routes in Europe.

The difference between the heights is just under 2000 meters. The total length of 4 ski routes is almost 160 km, of which 94 km are reserved for skiing athletes of an average level of training, beginners roll their first kilometers on 45 km of gentle slopes. And only 20 km is reserved for professionals. The scale of the resort is clearly emphasized by the number of lifts - 42, of which two are air trams. In Austria, ordinary cross-country skiing is no less popular; their lovers can enjoy 20-kilometer routes. Several ski schools are open on the territory of the ski complex, the staff of the equipment rental points approach their work very responsibly - they will not only advise the best options, but also select skis according to the height and build of the skier.

Holiday cost:
48.50 € is a daily ski pass, for 6 days it will cost 230.50 €. There are significant discounts for children and teenagers.

Resort infrastructure:
The resort has 28 cafes and cozy restaurants. Night clubs and discos make life very intense after sunset. At an altitude of 2000 meters, the highest children's camp in Austria "Kinderland" was opened. Young skiers can spend time there as soon as before lunch, so train under the supervision of professional instructors all day. A modern water park with many attractions will not leave indifferent neither children nor their parents. And if you want something more unusual, you can ride a sleigh pulled by fast horses or ride along the railroad in a train made at the beginning of the last century. Many hotels and apartments offer tourists to find shelter within their walls.

Kaprun and Zell am See

The common European sports region combines 2 ski resorts - Kaprun and Zell am See. Both of them are located on relatively low alpine slopes near Salzburg and have slopes suitable for skiing both beginners and experienced professionals. Every year, tens of thousands of tourists visit Austria to enjoy the purity of the alpine snow of this region and spend a few days in a unique atmosphere.

Ski resorts are located at an altitude of just over 700 meters, 77 km is the total length of all routes. The number of easy, medium and difficult tracks is divided equally. 26 lifts tirelessly deliver tourists to the start. Also, the resort is equipped with 4 toboggan runs, 2 tracks for snowboarders, 20 km of cross-country skiing. 10 excellent ski schools fully prepare tourists for the career of a skier - issues are covered, starting with the technique of movement and ending with the choice of equipment and the rules for preparing alpine skis for the season. 20 rental shops provide equipment rental services.

Holiday cost:
A 2-day ski pass, valid on the territory of both complexes, costs 91 €, 6-day - 232 €, for children under 16 - half the price.

Resort infrastructure:
Tired of intense outdoor activities, Austrian guests can visit the wellness center, soak in the sauna or splash in the pool. You can also play tennis, go sleigh rides or go horseback riding. 90 restaurants and 35 cafes are fighting for the right to feed tourists. Numerous hotels are always ready to provide shelter for tourists from all over the world.

Sölden

The ski resorts of the Otztal valley are considered the highest in the Republic of Austria. Sölden is one of the most popular resorts and a venue for various competitions, including the World Cups.

The resort has 150 kilometers of trails, including:

• 69 km are for training beginners;
• on 51 kilometers of medium difficulty, intermediate skiers can hone their skills;
• 28 kilometers will delight virtuoso athletes.

35 lifts tirelessly deliver tourists to the Alpine peaks.

Holiday cost:
A daily ski pass is offered at a price of 48.50 €, a 6-day one is 228 €, and discounts are available everywhere for children and young people in Austria.

Resort infrastructure:
26 restaurants are open all year round on the territory of the resort, many hotels are waiting for the arrival of their guests.

Ischgl

Ischgl has not only the glory of an excellent ski resort, but also a year-round center of party life. Ski lovers not only from Austria, but from all over the world come here for high-quality alpine snow, sunny frosty weather and bright nightly entertainment. The season in Ischgl runs from November to May, and snow is guaranteed until the end of April. 230 km of slopes and an altitude difference of 1464 meters make this resort one of the largest in the country. Most of the slopes have red and blue markings, only 20 km of slopes are intended for the pros. 44 operating lifts are constantly modernized and improved. It also operates the world's first two-level lift.

Holiday cost:
Ischgl is the most expensive ski resort, its prices are comparable to French and Swiss ones.
For a 2-day ski pass you will have to pay 88 €, a week stay will cost 226 €.

Resort infrastructure:
About 100 cafes, restaurants and bars provide excellent customer service, the doors of nightclubs and discos are always open for connoisseurs of active nightlife.

Austrians like to say: "We don't talk about snow, we guarantee it!" Find out about the most popular ski resorts in Austria, climate features, ski season, pistes, ski pass prices, equipment rentals and tourist reviews.

Most of Austria is covered by the spurs of the Alps. Winter sports are 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 not large ski centers, but small traditional resort villages. Most of them are located in the middle mountains. The best ski resorts in Austria are located in Tyrol.

Exchange rate: 1 euro ≈ 73 RUB.

Climate and weather

The country lies in the continental climate zone, so in winter it is cool in the ski resorts of Austria. The higher, the colder: for every 100 m, the thermometer drops by 0.5 ° C. In winter, the average air temperature is −10°C. The highlands are characterized by heavy snowfalls.

Skiing season. The ski season in the winter resorts of Austria lasts from December to the end of March - mid-April when the snow begins to melt on the slopes. High-lying glaciers such as the Dachstein Glacier (2700 m) are ridden all year round. Most tourists try to come to winter resorts around Christmas in order to combine holidays in the mountains with trips to bright Christmas markets.

(Photo © skiarlberg.at)

Ski resorts on the map of Austria

The best ski resorts in Austria

Even a sophisticated expert will not undertake to identify the leader among the Austrian winter recreation centers. All of them are located in picturesque places and are famous for their comfort. Ski resorts in Austria have first-class hotels, a professional slope maintenance system and training centers for beginners. The point is small - to find what 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 it has become a pleasant place for youth parties and off-piste skiing. There is a lot of snow in the mountains, so the season lasts until mid-April.

Tracks. Of the 190 km of slopes, 60 km are easy routes, and 110 km are intermediate routes. There are 12 trails on the Dachstein Glacier. There is a snow park and a large area for lovers of virgin lands. Most skiers ride on the elephants of Hochwurzen and Planai. In these places, there is the most difficult black track in the region, where the stages of the World Cup and night slalom are held. The toboggan route is 7 km long.

Prices. A day 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. Sledge rental - 7€.

Reviews. Fans of mountain skiing like that the resort has many slopes 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, branded shopping, massages, saunas and spas.

(Photo © piste-maps.co.uk)

Mayrhofen

The best ski resorts in Austria include a large winter recreation center located 65 km from Innsbruck. This is a prestigious resort, the hallmark of which is the famous narrow-gauge railway. There are a lot of après-ski activities for young people and there is the steepest slope in the country "Harakiri", the slope of which is 78%.

Tracks. The total length is 136 km, and in the area surrounding the resort - 550 km. The ski area occupies slopes from 630 to 2500 m, and it 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 kit for an adult for a day costs 32€, for a child - 18€. Hire of a helmet 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 soft slopes and can always be trained by experienced instructors. Tourists enjoy the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities - for example, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are popular. A spacious skating rink is open on the Waldbadstraße. The resort also has a 7.5 km long toboggan run.

(Photo © mayrhofenonline.com)

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 immediately three peaks above 3000 m with magnificent viewing platforms. The resort has two snow parks, a halfpipe, nightclubs, restaurants and a large sports center Freizeit Arena Sölden.

Tracks stretched for 145.5 km. The longest of them is 15 km, and the illuminated one is 4 km. Beginner trails stretch for 69.5 km, red and black trails for 29.2 km. The slopes are served by 34 lifts.

Prices. A day pass for adults costs 54.5€, for students 43.5€, for seniors 46.5€ and for children 30€. You can take a set of ski equipment or a set for snowboarding for a day for 33-58 €.

Reviews. Due to the variety of infrastructure, the resort receives flattering reviews. Vacationers love the opportunity to relax in the thermal springs, swim in the indoor pool and attend trendy nightly parties.

(Photo © oetztal.com)

The rating of ski resorts in Austria is often headed by a recreation center located in West Tyrol, 100 km from Innsbruck. St. Anton is called the sparkling diamond on the country's winter crown. This is a one-stop resort for beginners, experienced skiers, freeride fans, cross-country skiers and luge lovers.

Tracks. The ski area starts from 1300 m and has a height difference of more than 1.5 km. Freeride routes stretch for 200 km. Slopes for beginners - 130 km, slopes of medium difficulty - 123 km, and routes for professional skiers - 51 km. The slopes are served by 90 lifts.

Prices. A full day ski pass costs €54.5 for an adult, €49.5 for youth and seniors and €32.5 for a child. A daily rental of skis, poles, boots and a helmet, depending on the model, costs 46-68.4 €. The same amount you need to pay for the use of a complete snowboard kit.

Reviews. Vacationers are happy with the après-ski resort. There are 80 cafes and restaurants, a couple of dozen shops and nightclubs. There are saunas, jacuzzis and indoor pools. Outdoor enthusiasts can go ice skating and paragliding.

Infrastructure, lifts and slopes in the resort of St. Anton

Lech

The popular ski resorts in Austria include the 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 the country's skiing. Celebrities and the rich are accustomed to spending their free time on the local slopes.

Tracks. The ski area has a height difference of 1 km. Approximately one third of all pistes are green. Difficult routes occupy 24%, and the off-piste area covers 200 km of slopes. Snowboarders use the halfpipe and two fun parks.

Prices. A full day ski pass costs €54.5 for an adult, €49.5 for youth and senior citizens and €32.5 for a child. Rent for 6 days of skiing 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 all skill levels and is considered a great place for a family vacation.

(Photo © skiarlberg.at)

Bad Gastein

The prestigious year-round resort is located 100 km from Salzburg at an altitude of 1600 m. For the 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 get wellness treatments in spa centers, hot radon springs and salt galleries.

Tracks. There are few easy slopes, so Bad Gadschein is not classified as a ski resort in Austria 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 children's ski pass costs 14-22.5 €. Children under 6 years old are allowed on the lifts for free. Renting a ski kit for adults for a day costs 21-40 €, and for a child - 7-17 €. Snowboard rental costs 24€, helmet 6€, toboggan 5€, ski poles 2€, snowshoes 8€. Every year the collection of equipment for hire is updated with models of the new season.

They open their doors to millions of tourists from November to April, and on the tops of the Alpine glaciers you can enjoy excellent skiing at any time of the year. The main ski area is located in the southwestern part of the country, in the federal states of Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Austrian ski centers are world famous for the excellent quality of the tracks, modern infrastructure, excellent service and a huge selection of entertainment for every taste. A special charm of winter holidays in Austria is given by the bewitching landscapes of mountain lakes, snowy slopes covered with fir trees and Tyrolean village houses. You can get acquainted with the best Austrian ski resorts by reading our article.

1. St. Anton (Vorarlberg)

St. Anton is rightfully one of the best ski resorts in Austria. This modern resort, rich in traditions and excellent infrastructure, is called the cradle of Austrian skiing - it was here that the first ski club in the Alps was opened at the very beginning of the 20th century. Holidays in St. Anton will bring real pleasure to experienced skiers and adrenaline lovers: the slopes here are interesting and quite difficult. The total length of the routes of St. Anton is more than 300 km, most of them have a high level of difficulty. By the way, the longest 10 km track in the Arlberg is also located in St. Anton. In addition, the resort offers excellent opportunities for freeriding due to the spacious and steep slopes and excellent snow cover. Fans of active pastime after skiing will enjoy the ski resort of St. Anton with a huge selection of restaurants and noisy nightclubs.

2. Lech (Vorarlberg)

Ski resort Lech is a true paradise for connoisseurs of luxury hotels, great restaurants, gourmet Austrian cuisine and, of course, beautiful slopes. Lech has long been a favorite winter holiday destination for European aristocrats, world celebrities and crowned heads. It’s definitely impossible to save on vacation here, but in return for the money spent, you can enjoy the highest level of service and a huge variety of services offered. Of the 300 km of ski slopes in Lech, slopes of an average level of difficulty prevail. There are many comfortable trails with a slight slope, suitable for lovers of leisurely and comfortable skiing. Skiers with impeccable physical fitness will surely like heli-skiing - off-piste descents with delivery to the top by helicopter. Lech is the only Austrian resort where this rare and exciting type of skiing is officially allowed. In addition, Lech and St. Anton are united by a common ski pass, which allows you to enjoy extreme skiing on the slopes of a neighboring resort.

3. Mayrhofen (Tyrol)

Mayrhofen is one of the most famous Austrian ski resorts. Its undeniable advantages are a large area for skiing with a total length of more than 150 km, flawless slopes of medium difficulty, affordable prices and a lively nightlife. The resort of Mayrhofen is very popular among the European public, so do not be surprised that in the high season its slopes are often overloaded, and long queues line up at the ski lifts. The Hintertux glacier, whose peak is at 3250 m, has excellent opportunities for descents. The snow cover here lasts all year round, thanks to which skiing on the upper zone of the glacier is possible both in winter and in summer. And, finally, the main highlight of Mayrhofen is the most dangerous track in Austria with the eloquent name "Harakiri": its incredibly steep slope reaches 78%.

4. Sölden (Tyrol)

The ski resort of Sölden has become famous for its lively atmosphere and wide range of recreational opportunities. Here you will find a variety of accommodation options from budget hotels to luxury hotels. A huge number of restaurants, bars, discos and nightclubs makes Sölden especially attractive for lovers of stormy après-ski: the most noisy and incendiary parties in Tyrol take place here. When it comes to skiing, among 150 km of first-class ski slopes, everyone, from beginner to professional, will find a route according to their preferences. And due to the fact that the top of the Sölden glacier is covered with snow all year round, the skiing season here begins earlier than usual, and the most impatient skiers come here as early as October.

5. Ischgl (Tyrol)

The reputation of the most expensive and most prestigious ski resort in Austria has firmly entrenched in the small mountain village of Ischgl. From late October to early May, Ischgl turns into a place of a huge glamorous party, where, according to tradition, all Austrian bohemia gather to “see people and show themselves”, and at the same time (as a pleasant addition to the rest) go skiing. The annual opening of the ski season in Ischgl is a grand show: in different years Elton John, Tina Turner, Sting, Rihanna and other legendary world-famous performers took part in it. The quality of the tracks and infrastructure here, of course, is at the highest level. The total length of the tracks exceeds 200 km, most of them are quite difficult. The resort has all the conditions for extreme skiing, freeride and carving, and the famous local snowboard park is considered one of the best in Europe.

6. Zell am See (Salzburg)

The picturesque town of Zell am See, located on the shores of the mountain lake Zell, is rightfully one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Austria. With impeccable groomed trails and the latest infrastructure, it has retained its unique natural charm. Zell am See, together with the high mountain glacier Kaprun, forms a single ski area with a total length of about 140 km of slopes, and the season on the glacier lasts all year round. Zell am See offers its guests a huge range of opportunities for active pastime: alpine and classic skiing, snowboarding, sledding and skating, horseback riding, sailing on the ice of Lake Zell, mountaineering, paragliding and skydiving. The healing effect of the resort is complemented by its excellent ecology, fresh mountain air and the presence of healing mineral springs.

7. Bad Gastein (Salzburg)

The expensive and prestigious Austrian ski resort Bad Gastein is known primarily as a spa resort: back in the 19th century, European intellectuals came here to improve their health “on the waters”. Thanks to the healing mountain air and numerous thermal springs, Bad Gastein is often called the "Alpine Monte Carlo". The unique flavor of the town is given by ancient architectural ensembles, a picturesque waterfall in the heart of the resort, elite spa complexes, and the oldest mountain casino. For ski lovers, Bad Gastein offers about 200 km of impeccable slopes, most of which are ideal for measured comfortable skiing. There are few difficult slopes, but for beginners there are several ski schools, including children's ones. As for the après-ski holiday, you definitely can’t call it stormy and lively here: on the territory of the aristocratic Bad Gastein, the most popular entertainment after skiing is leisurely walks along the mountain paths or a visit to the spa.

8. Obertauern (Salzburg)

Obertauern rightfully enjoys the reputation of being the snowiest ski resort in Austria. Skiing here is organized at an altitude of 1700 to 2300 m, so natural snow is always guaranteed on the upper sections of the slopes, and a modern artificial snow support system works below. Of the 100 km of ski routes, more than half are blue slopes, designed for the average level of skiers. There are interesting red runs with an increased level of difficulty. For fans of extreme skiing, Obertauern has only 4 black slopes, but thanks to the abundant snow, there are excellent opportunities for freeriding. This resort is not yet well known to the Russian public, although it certainly deserves closer attention: it has the most modern hotel stock in Austria and excellent opportunities for après-ski: many bars, restaurants and several nightclubs.

9. Nassfeld (Carinthia)

Nassfeld is another good ski resort in Austria, undeservedly deprived of the attention of Russian tourists. Therefore, if you prefer a holiday in Europe among Europeans, Nassfeld will be an excellent option for you. Among the main advantages of the Nassfeld resort are the guaranteed abundance of snow, the excellent quality of the slopes and the very convenient location of hotels and apartments, which allows you to ski, as they say, “from the door”. On the slopes of Nassfeld with a total length of about 100 km, there is enough space for both beginners and professionals. Interestingly, it is in Nassfeld that the longest gondola lift in the Alps operates, delivering skiers to the beginning of the slopes for a distance of more than 6 km. Another highlight of the resort is the mountain lake Presegger, which, after freezing, turns into a huge natural ice rink.

10. Serfaus - Fiss - Ladis (Tyrol)

The ski resorts of Serfaus, Fiss and Ladis, united by a common 200-kilometer track area, are an excellent option for an active family holiday in Austria. There are excellent conditions for skiers of intermediate level and for children's skiing. In the Serfaus resort, everything is thought out to the smallest detail for the most comfortable stay with children: a mountain kindergarten famous throughout Europe with exciting animation programs, children's restaurants, a puppet theater, a children's ski school, snow towns and even lifts specially adapted for loading strollers. Another unique feature of the resort is the only silent metro of its kind, consisting of one line and four stations, and delivering vacationers from the resort center to the ski lifts for free.