Austrian alps

The 10 best ski resorts in Austria

A comprehensive guide to the top 10 best Austrian ski resorts, designed to help you choose the perfect destination for your winter skiing holiday in the Austrian Alps.
20th August, 2024
5 min read time

Austria, a country synonymous with majestic mountains and rich cultural heritage, is also a haven for ski enthusiasts. In this guide, we've selected the best ski resorts in Austria, known for their breathtaking alpine scenery and world-class facilities. For each resort, we provide an in-depth look at their special features and what sets them apart, ensuring you have all the information to craft your memorable ski adventure in the Austrian Alps.

Top Austrian ski resorts

  1. St Anton am Arlberg
  2. Saalbach
  3. Ischgl
  4. Mayrhofen
  5. Zell am See
  6. Kitzbühel
  7. Lech
  8. Sölden
  9. Kaprun
  10. Bad Gastein

1. St Anton am Arlberg

St Anton ski resort

Known for

St Anton is renowned for its challenging ski slopes and vibrant après-ski scene.

Best for

Experienced skiers and those seeking lively nightlife

Highlights

  • Vast ski area with over 305 km of pistes
  • Challenging ski terrain
  • Lively town with a range of bars, restaurants, and high-end shops
  • Lively après-ski

Closest airports

The nearest airport is Innsbruck, just over an hour's drive away

Why ski St Anton

St. Anton is a haven for expert skiers seeking challenging runs and an active social scene. The resort's connection to the larger Alberg area offers extensive skiing opportunities, making it hard to get bored. For those who enjoy après-ski, St. Anton provides one of the most vibrant scenes in the Alps.

The town

St. Anton boasts a quaint, traditional Alpine village atmosphere, with a bustling center filled with shops, cafés, and bars. It's a place where you can indulge in high-end shopping during the day and enjoy lively après-ski activities in the evening

2. Saalbach

Saalbach ski resort

Known for

Saalbach is famous for being part of the Skicircus Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn, one of Austria's largest interconnected ski areas with over 270 km of slopes.

Best for

Skiers who love a blend of varied slopes and après-ski fun.

Highlights

  • Vast and varied ski area with 270 km of pistes
  • Modern and efficient lift system
  • Charming town featuring an array of bars, restaurants, and shops

Closest airports

The nearest major airport is Salzburg, about an hour and a half drive away.

Why ski Saalbach

Saalbach offers an incredible mix of extensive skiing opportunities and a lively après-ski scene. It's perfect for intermediates and those who enjoy a good party atmosphere after a day on the slopes. The beautiful alpine setting and the efficient lift system add to its appeal.

The town

The village of Saalbach transforms from peaceful in the morning to a lively hub of activity during après-ski hours. Filled with packed venues and a party atmosphere late into the night, it's ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant social scene. However, there are quieter suburbs for those who prefer a more relaxed environment.

3. Ischgl

Ischgl ski resort

Known for

Ischgl stands out for its vibrant après-ski scene and large freeride area.

Best for

Party-goers and skiers of all levels, especially intermediates.

Highlights

  • Huge ski area spanning two countries
  • 230 km of pistes
  • Consistent and quality snow
  • Long season from November to May
  • Super-modern and efficient lift network

Closest airports

The nearest airport is Innsbruck, approximately 1.5 hours away

Why ski Ischgl

Ischgl is an ideal destination for those who love skiing and snowboarding on diverse terrain and enjoying a lively après-ski scene. Its expansive area and quality snow conditions offer a satisfying experience for all skiers, from beginners to experts.

The town

The village of Ischgl is a blend of traditional Tyrolean style and modern features. It's particularly known for its wild après-ski action and is a hub for major seasonal parties featuring international music stars.

4. Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen ski resort

Known for

Mayrhofen is known for its energetic après-ski and the Snowbombing music festival.

Best for

Skiing groups seeking a mix of skiing and partying

Highlights

  • Large ski area with varied terrain
  • 540 km of pistes
  • Modern lift system
  • Lively après-ski scene

Closest airports

The nearest airport is Innsbruck, about an hour's drive away

Why ski Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is perfect for skiers looking for a mix of challenging and beginner-friendly slopes. The vast terrain and the link to the Zillertal area make it a skier's paradise. The resort's vibrant après-ski scene is also a major draw for those looking to enjoy lively entertainment after a day on the slopes.

The town

The village of Mayrhofen offers a pleasant atmosphere with scenic walks along the Ziller river and a variety of off-slope attractions, including an ice rink and indoor climbing. The après-ski scene is bustling with numerous pubs, bars, and nightclubs.

5. Zell am See

Zell am See ski resort

Known for

Zell am See is renowned for its scenic lake views and family-friendly atmosphere

Best for

Families and skiers who appreciate natural beauty

Highlights

  • Modern lift system
  • 100% snow-making coverage
  • Wonderful variety of terrain
  • Glacier resort
  • 136 km of pistes

Closest airports

The nearest airport is Salzburg, about 1 hour and 25 minutes away

Why ski Zell am See

Zell am See is ideal for those seeking a diverse skiing experience, from beginner to intermediate slopes, with easy access to more challenging terrain at the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. The stunning lakeside setting and proximity to other premium ski regions like Saalbach Hinterglemm add to its appeal.

The town

The town center of Zell am See is both gorgeous and vibrant, featuring lively bars and nightlife. The old town area, centered around a historic Gothic church, is filled with shops, good restaurants, and bars, making it a charming place for après-ski activities.

6. Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel ski resort

Known for

Kitzbühel is known for its blend of charm, history, and Hahnenkamm race

Best for

Families and skiers of all levels

Highlights

  • Wide range of terrain
  • Modern lift system
  • Charming town
  • Perfect snowmaking coverage at lower altitudes
  • 179 km of pistes

Closest airports

The closest airport is Salzburg, about 1 hour and 15 minutes away

Why ski Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is ideal for those seeking a mix of challenging and intermediate-friendly slopes in a historic and stylish setting. The resort's reputation and amenities make it a delightful destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The town

The old town of Kitzbühel exudes charm and sophistication. It's well-known for its après ski scene, with a range of bars catering to every taste. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy off the slopes, including cultural day trips to nearby cities.

7. Lech

Lech ski resort

Known for

Lech is known for attracting an exclusive crowd, and high-quality skiing

Best for

Luxury seekers and families desiring a quieter, upscale experience

Highlights

  • Vast ski area with varied terrain
  • Ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers
  • High-quality accommodation and service
  • Excellent snow record
  • 305 km of pistes

Closest airports

The closest airport is in Innsbruck, with other options including Zurich and Munich.

Why ski Lech

Lech is perfect for those seeking a luxurious ski experience with a great snow record and a variety of slopes. It's particularly appealing for those who enjoy high-quality accommodation and service in a beautiful alpine setting.

The town

Lech maintains its charm as a former mountain farming village while offering luxury accommodations and services. The village’s relative isolation adds to its exclusivity and appeal, although it means the journey can be challenging in bad weather.

8. Sölden

Solden ski resort

Known for

Sölden is known for its extensive and diverse ski offerings, and hosting World Cup races

Best for

Skiers and snowboarders looking for a vibrant ski experience with varied terrain

Highlights

  • Two glacier skiing areas
  • Excellent snow conditions
  • A modern lift system
  • 146 km of pistes

Closest airports

The closest airport is Innsbruck, located about 90 km away.

Why ski Sölden

Sölden's vast and diverse terrain, excellent snow conditions, and modern infrastructure make it an ideal destination for a wide range of skiers. The resort's unique features like the James Bond Experience and the Big 3 Rally offer additional excitement to the skiing experience.

The town

The village of Sölden, while known for its lively après-ski scene, also caters well to families. It has a good selection of ski schools, kindergartens, and other amenities. The town offers a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine

9. Kaprun

Kaprun ski resort

Known for

Kaprun is renowned for its year-round skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier.

Best for

Skiers looking for reliable snow and diverse activities

Highlights

  • Guaranteed skiing from October to July on the Kitzsteinhorn
  • Quality snow
  • Varied terrain
  • Modern lift system
  • Breathtaking views
  • Easy accessible
  • 136 km of pistes

Closest airports

The closest major gateway airports are Innsbruck and Salzburg.

Why ski Kaprun

Kaprun is perfect for those who love diverse skiing experiences, from the snow-sure glacier to the family-friendly Maiskogel. Its combination with nearby Zell am See and Skicircus Saalbach offers an extensive ski area, suitable for all levels.

The town

Kaprun has a relaxed and friendly air, featuring traditional-style buildings and a picturesque setting. While the village itself can be quiet, its proximity to the more lively Zell am See offers a balance for those seeking more vibrant après-ski activities.

10. Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein ski resort

Known for

Bad Gastein is renowned for its stunning surroundings, and natural hot-spring spas and therapeutic climate caverns.

Best for

Wellness enthusiasts and skiers of all levels

Highlights

  • Varied terrain suitable for all skill levels
  • Natural hot-spring spas
  • Picturesque town
  • 177 km of pistes

Closest airports

The closest airport is Salzburg, which is about a 90-minute drive away

Why ski Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein is perfect for those seeking a blend of skiing and relaxation. Its thermal waters and spa facilities offer a unique way to unwind after a day on the slopes. The resort's scenic setting and variety of slopes make it a great destination for a winter getaway.

The town

Bad Gastein is known for its central area around the pedestrian Salzburger Platz, picturesque riverside, and a crag-perched church. The town is relatively quiet most of the time, offering a serene and elegant ambiance, contrasting with the more lively nearby town of Zell am See.

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