Perched high in the Austrian Alps, Obergurgl captivates with its traditional Tyrolean architecture and excellent snow conditions, making it an ideal destination for family ski vacations. Nestled among stunning mountain peaks, the resort is celebrated for its high-quality hotels and efficient, no-wait lift system, making it a top choice for skiing.
As one of the top ski resorts in Austria for families, Obergurgl offers a seamless blend of comfort and adventure. This guide is your key to easily planning the perfect Obergurgl ski holiday. It covers everything you need—from Obergurgl's prime location and expansive ski terrain to its historical snow patterns and top dining and après-ski venues. But that's not all. By the end of this guide, you'll find all the essential contact details and useful links you'll need.
Let's get started!
Obergurgl, Austria - overview
- Where is Obergurgl?
- Obergurgl the resort
- Obergurgl ski area
- Skiing in Obergurgl
- Obergurgl ski season dates
- Obergurgl snow history
- Restaurants in Obergurgl
- Things to do in Obergurgl
- Obergurgl après-ski, and nightlife
- Obergurgl resort map
- Practical information
Where is Obergurgl?
Obergurgl is located in the Tyrol region of Austria, nestled high in the Ötztal valley, just 13 km south of Sölden and close to the Italian border.
For a detailed view of Obergurgl's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Obergurgl the resort
- Resort altitude: 1930 m
- Resort permanent residents: 400
Obergurgl, presents a peaceful and traditional atmosphere, characterized by its Tyrolean architectural style. The village features charming wooden chalets and a notable historic church, contributing to its picturesque Alpine setting. This architecture, combined with luxurious modern amenities in its hotels and guesthouses, crafts a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. The village's traffic-free center enhances its serene and relaxed vibe, making it ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful holiday retreat amidst the stunning mountain landscape.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| High-altitude skiing | Most runs above treeline |
| Classic Austrian village atmosphere | Pricey accommodations |
| Quality ski-in/ski-out hotels with spas | Limited non-skiing activities |
| Family-friendly | Poor nightlife |
Here is how Obergurgl looks like
Watch Obergurgl on YouTube .
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Obergurgl ski area
- Highest lift: 3082 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 112 km
- Vertical drop: 1289 m
- Ski lifts: 25
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, offers 112 kilometers of well-maintained pistes across two main sectors; Hochgurgl and Obergurgl, with each providing about 56 km of slopes (60.2 km easy blue runs, 33.2 km intermediate red runs, 14.3 km difficult black runs, and 4.5 km ski route), all connected efficiently by 25 modern lifts that ensure minimal wait times.
- Obergurgl sector: This area offers a varied skiing experience with most slopes leading directly back to the village, allowing for easy ski-in & ski-out access. Beginners can enjoy gentle slopes near the Gaisberg and Mahdstuhl lifts, while more experienced skiers might prefer the moderately challenging Festkogel runs or the demanding mogul piste from Hohe Mut. The Rosskarbahn, a new lift, improves access from the village center to the ski area, enhancing convenience for both skiers and pedestrians.
- Hochgurgl sector: Ideal for skiers looking to advance their skills, Hochgurgl features numerous blue slopes suitable for beginners ready to progress. For advanced skiers, challenging runs await at Schermerspitze and the steep trail from Top Mountain Star to the Wurmkogl middle station. The longest run, spanning 8 km with a 1260-meter altitude difference, offers a thrilling descent from Wurmkogl to Obergurgl/Pill.
Skiing in Obergurgl
Beginners
Obergurgl offers beginner skiers convenient and accessible nursery areas near the village center and at the lower end of the village, ensuring short distances to practice those initial turns. Once ready to move on from the basics, beginners can take the Hohe Mut gondola for gentle runs below the Bruggenboden chairlift, which are perfect for building confidence.
Intermediates
The Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski area is an intermediate paradise, featuring a network of cruisy blues and reds. Intermediate skiers can enjoy the spacious runs at the top of the Festkogel gondola, which offer spectacular mountaintop views. For those days when the snow falls, the tree-lined pistes near the Steimannbahn chairlift provide excellent skiing conditions.
Advanced
Advanced skiers will find ample challenges in Obergurgl, including the Hohe Mut's large mogul runs and the steep Festkogl ski routes that are thrilling in fresh powder. For more off-piste action, the Hochgurgl area’s Königstal offers excellent opportunities, and the high-altitude black runs from the top of the Wurmkogl provide exhilarating descents.
Snowboarding
Obergurgl is snowboard-friendly with few drag lifts and a mix of terrains that cater to different skill levels. Snowboarders looking for a challenge will find the snow park by the Steinmannbahn chairlift ideal, with a variety of jumps and features to test their skills.
Off-piste
Obergurgl is renowned for its pristine off-piste slopes that attract freeriders seeking powder stashes. The unmarked ski areas, especially around Hochgurgl’s Königstal, are perfect for exploring untouched snow. Always check the latest avalanche reports for safety before heading out.
Obergurgl ski season dates
The ski season in Obergurgl for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 14th and run until April 30th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions.
Obergurgl snow history
Obergurgl offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 30 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.6 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 29 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 4.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Obergurgl, with an impressive 43 cm of snow over 4.7 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 31 cm of snow over 4.3 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|
| December | 30 cm | 3.6 days |
| January | 30 cm | 3.6 days |
| February | 29 cm | 4.0 days |
| March | 32 cm | 4.4 days |
| April | 31 cm | 4.3 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
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Restaurants in Obergurgl
Mountain restaurants
- Nederhütte: renowned for its lively après-ski atmosphere and rustic charm, this mountain hut offers a traditional menu accompanied by live music and stunning alpine views, making it a favorite spot for both lunch and after-ski gatherings.
- Zirben Alm: located directly on the slopes, Zirben Alm provides a cozy retreat for skiers looking to refuel. It serves a variety of traditional Tyrolean dishes in a warm, wood-paneled setting.
- Downhill Grill: a popular choice for those seeking a quick, hearty meal focused on grilled specialties, right on the mountain.
- Schönwieshütte: this traditional mountain hut is set in a picturesque location and it offers a selection of classic Austrian dishes. The perfect spot for a break during a day of skiing.
Resort restaurants
- Alpen-Wellness Resort Hochfirst: located within the Alpen-Wellness Resort, this restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu that includes both international and local specialties.
- Austria Stuben: this restaurant provides a more intimate dining experience with a menu that showcases Austrian culinary traditions.
- Trattoria Brunello: featuring Italian classics like pasta and pizza in a warm, inviting setting, this trattoria is a great location for families and groups.
- Gourmetstube Hochfirst: situated in the prestigious Hotel Hochfirst, Gourmetstube offers a fine dining experience with exquisite dishes prepared by awards-winning chef Hans Zusser.
Things to do in Obergurgl
- Winter hiking
- Ski mountaineering
- Snowshoe hiking
- Cross-country skiing
- Motorcycle museum
- Tobogganing
- Sledding
- Wellness and beauty
- Ice skating
- Nature park
- Indoor golf
- Aqua Dome
- Freizeit Arena
Obergurgl après-ski, and nightlife
- Friedl's Bar: a cozy spot known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and an excellent selection of drinks.
- Jenewein: a popular après-ski destination, known for its lively vibe often featuring live music or DJs to keep the energy high.
- Festkogl Schirmbar: located at the base of the Festkogl lift, this bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning mountain views.
- S'Fassl: a quintessential après-ski bar, particularly famous for its festive environment where you can enjoy traditional Tyrolean music and hospitality.
- Josl Keller: a nightclub that becomes the heart of Obergurgl's nightlife once the sun sets. Known for its lively dance floor and contemporary music, it's the go-to place for those looking to dance the night away.
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Obergurgl resort map
Download Obergurgl resort map here
- Tourist office website: gurgl.com
- Tourist office phone: +0043. 52566260
- Email: bergbahnen@obergurgl.com
- For visa & passport travel advice, visit here
