Grossarl is often called the “Valley of Alpine Meadows,” and it doesn’t take long to see why. With rolling pastures, welcoming hotels, and lift access into one of Austria’s largest ski networks, it strikes a perfect balance between tranquil alpine charm and modern convenience. Families love its easy‑to‑navigate kids’ areas and fun off‑slope activities, while more adventurous skiers sneak into quiet off‑piste routes around Fulseck.
Here’s a practical guide to help plan your perfect Grossarl ski holiday, covering everything from local highlights and slopes for all levels to the best places to eat and unwind after a day on the mountain.
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Grossarl is nestled in the Grossarltal Valley of Salzburg Province, about 78 km (48 mi) south of Salzburg.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Once a small farming community, Grossarl has evolved into a four season alpine destination, well‑known for its clusters of 4 star hotels and a year‑round leisure centre. Many lodging options feature wellness facilities, think heated indoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments, an ideal complement to a day on the slopes. Families in particular appreciate Grossarl’s compact layout and friendly atmosphere, where children can play safely, and parents can easily stroll from hotel to lift station. Yet despite these modern comforts, the village retains a down‑to‑earth charm reflective of its farming roots.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Part of the extensive Ski amadé network (759 km/472 mi of pistes) | Lower altitude can affect snow quality late in the season |
| Family-friendly | Limited advanced ski terrain |
| Modern ski infrastructure | Après-ski is relatively low-key |
| Numerous 4 star hotels with wellness facilities | Fewer dining and entertainment options |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Grossarl has to offer.
Gentle nursery slopes and dedicated kids’ zones, often near T‑bar lifts or magic carpets, make learning to ski straightforward and fun. Local ski schools are known for their child‑centric approach, ensuring beginners feel safe and supported.
Red graded slopes dominate, presenting plenty of scenic, cruisy runs that wind through forested areas back to the valley. An easy‑to‑navigate ridge lets you cross into Dorfgastein mid‑day, so intermediates can clock extra miles with minimal hassle.
Grossarl only has around 2 km (1.24 mi) of black‑rated pistes, but certain red runs under Kruezkogel can still challenge experienced skiers. For more extensive advanced terrain, day‑trip to other Ski amadé spots such as Wagrain (27 km/16 mi) or Flachau (38 km/23 mi).
Boarders will find minimal flats, smooth transitions, and a 500 m (1,640 ft) snowpark near the Sonnenbahn slopes, complete with boxes, kickers, and gentle features for newbies. The kids’ Funslope, outfitted with wave tracks and tunnels, is a fun break for boarders of all ages.
Despite its family‑friendly rep, Grossarl conceals quieter freeride options near Fulseck and Seekar. The Hüttschlag Valley extension offers untapped backcountry routes for confident intermediates or advanced skiers. Always check avalanche conditions before venturing off marked trails.
The ski season in Grossarl started on December and is supposed to end by April 26th. If for next winter you're planning a ski holiday to Grossarl, be sure to explore our Grossarl deals for the best offers available.
Grossarl, offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 18 cm (7.0 in) and 20 cm (7.8 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.1 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 18 cm (7.0 in) but occurs more frequently across 3.3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Grossarl, with 30 cm (11.8 in) of snow over 4.0 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 10 cm (3.9 in) of snow over 1.9 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 18 cm/7.0 in | 2.9 days |
| January | 20 cm/7.8 in | 3.4 days |
| February | 18 cm/7.0 in | 3.3 days |
| March | 13 cm/5.1 in | 3.0 days |
| April | 10 cm/3.9 in | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
From scenic summit terraces offering classic Tirolean dishes, to relaxed hotel dining rooms and village restaurants, Grossarl’s dining scene has you covered. Highlights include:
Après‑ski in Grossarl balances a friendly buzz with an otherwise calm atmosphere. Umbrella bars at the base stations liven up late afternoon with music and dancing, but the vibe is more about chatting over mulled wine than an all‑night rave. Try the Schirmbar at Laireiteralm or the Hotel Auhof’s outdoor bar for relaxed socializing. If you prefer something cozier, pop into Piccolo in the market square for a warm drink, or head to B3 for a bit more action.
Download Grossarl village map pdf here
