Ski tours to Austria. Ski Austria Where to ski Austria
Austria is the recognized queen of the Alps, and this is not surprising - the Alps cover most of it, and the abundance of lakes adds additional charm to this amazing country. Austria is famous for its picturesque resorts and an excellent level of service and quality of service.
The country is one of Europe's leading ski holiday destinations. Austria is home to many famous ski resorts, and no matter your level of skiing, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety on offer.
Ski resorts in Austria are usually a little lower than those in France and Switzerland, but this does not prevent excellent skiing in season, and the famous Austrian glaciers are at your service out of season.
The most famous and popular ski resorts are located in federal states Tyrol, Salzburgerland, Styria, Carinthia.
Tyrol rightfully leads this worthy list with its star capital Innsbruck (twice the capital of the Winter Olympic Games).
The main resorts of Tyrol: Innsbruck and the surrounding area (Igls, Axamer-Litzum, Fulpmes, Neustift, Tulfes, Imst) Arlberg (St. Anton, Lech) Ski Circus with the famous White Circle, which includes St. Anton, St. Christoph, Lech and Zürs offers excellent and memorable skiing. Zillertal valley (Mayrhofen, Zell am Ziller, Fügen, Kaltenbach) with the famous Hinterhoeks glacier Seefeld Kitzbühel and Kirchberg Otztal valley (Sölden, Obergurgl, Hochgurgl) Sölden, one of the most popular resorts Austria, where thousands of fans of the white miracle flock every year; Ischgl, practically a mecca for skiers, Pitztal Serfaus
The ski center of Styria, the second largest state of Austria, was and remains Dachstein Tauern with its largest resort center of Schladming.
The land of Salzburg is famous for its European sports region, which includes the villages of Zell am See and Kaprun with the glacier of the same name. To the south are the thermal and ski resorts of Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein (Gasteinertal Valley). Whichever resort you choose for your holiday, you will receive equivalent Austrian quality service and very acceptable prices.
As a rule, resorts in Austria offer not only ski holidays, there are many thermal complexes at resorts, sports centers, entertainment centers, including children's. Often at the resort you can get a guest card, which provides discounts on services, including the ski pass.
Après-ski in Austria deserves special mention – people here know how and want to have fun. The famous bars and nightclubs of St. Anton are practically the hallmark of Austrian après ski. However, this does not mean at all that for a great evening leisure you must choose big resort– even in the smallest village there is always an excellent bar with music and dancing.
By choosing Austria, you choose great service V mountain alps at a reasonable price.
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 ski centers, and 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 ≈ 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, the average air temperature is −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 before Christmas, 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
Identify the leader among Austrian centers winter holiday Even a seasoned expert will not undertake it. All of them are in picturesque places and are famous for their comfort. Ski resorts in Austria have first-class hotels, professional slope maintenance and training centers for newbies. 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 in late XIX 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 a large area for virgin snow lovers. 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 is a prestigious resort business card which is considered 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 most long route- 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, such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing, which 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€. Take a kit for the day ski equipment or a set for snowboarding can cost 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 skiing countries. People are used to spending time on these slopes free time celebrities and rich people.
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 holidays.
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 snowpark.
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 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 a premium class in the world of ski holidays. And this is not surprising: skimming the cream off the legendary alpine meadows not only in the emerald summer, but also in the frosty snowy winter, the inhabitants of the Austrian Tyrol and Salzburg came up with the idea before anyone else in the world - more than 100 years ago. The first downhill competitions took place in the Austrian Alps in 1904, in 1922 the first ski school was opened, in 1928 the first ski lift and, in fact, the ski resort were launched. travel business generally.
Over the course of a century, hardworking, careful, stubborn Austrians managed to build a real snow empire on the slopes of their native Alps, including more than 800 ski resorts and about 50 ski areas, almost 20% of which operate all year round.
Today, Austria is a leader in receiving skiers and snowboarders. A short flight, well-equipped, varied slopes - both for children and beginners, as well as for severe off-piste skiing, a wide choice of accommodation - from 5-star hotels to more than budget apartments that can be rented “shared”, 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.
Thanks to 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, which will delight you with a variety of slopes and high-quality service.
Attention! The ski regions of Austria have their own rules, which are somewhat different from the global ones. Therefore, please note:
*there are no traditional amateur “green” trails on the local slopes. Their place is taken by “blue” ones - they are intended for training beginners;
*most lifts operate between 8:30 and 16:00. Only some slopes provide the opportunity for evening skiing. So it makes sense to think about evening leisure in advance;
*booking a room in hotels and apartments here is accepted from Saturday to Saturday: checking in mid-week can be difficult.
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-quality service and an active social life off the piste. Concerts of world-famous stars regularly take place here - Madonna, Sting, Elton John “celebrated” in Ischgl... Another feature of Ischgl is the abundance of shopping places: the resort has official stores of many of the world's most famous brands. As for the skiing opportunities, they are also excellent here: 90% of Ischgl’s pistes are located above 2000 m above sea level, and therefore they are not threatened by winters with little snow, 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, “tailored” to work with children, and a kindergarten.
Trails: the total length of the descents reaches 238 km. More than half of the slopes are classified as “red” - intended for experienced skiers. There are also cross-country ski trails. A special treat for snowboarders: Ischgl is among the top best resorts for snowboarding in Europe. It offers boarders a half-pipe, four jumps and ample opportunities for off-piste skiing.
Ski season: mid-November - early May.
Ski pass cost: from 210 to 240 euros depending on the season (during the periods from November 24 to December 23, from January 7 to 20, from April 18 to May 1, the cost of the ski pass is reduced). Children's passes 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 (salons for spas and beauty treatments, radon baths, salt adits), thanks to which tourists can combine a ski holiday with relaxation in the sauna and general wellness.
Trails: up to 220 kilometers of perfectly prepared slopes at altitudes up to 2700 m. More than 60% are red slopes (of medium difficulty). The resort also has cross-country ski trails, a fan park and two half-pipes for snowboarders. There are opportunities for virgin skiing.
Ski season: December - March.
Ski pass cost: 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 welcoming skiers back in the 1920s and is now considered the cradle of alpine skiing in Austria. You can ride not only in the (very expensive) Kitzbühel itself, but also in the surrounding regions associated with the “cradle” common system routes
For example, it’s a stone’s throw from Kitzbühel to the Söll region, which unites several small ski villages with more than humane costs of living and an abundance of easy “family” slopes.
Trails: up to 200 km of well-equipped and groomed trails, more than a third of which are intended for beginner skiers, including children. However, this does not mean that a professional has no place to turn around in Kitzbühel: the steepest slalom track in the Alps, Streif, is located here, where the world's most serious downhill competitions are held: a slope angle of 85 degrees ensures a descent speed of up to 140 km/h.
Ski season: December - March.
Ski pass cost: about 200 euros for six days. The resort offers a discount for children (up to 15 years old) and youth (up to 19 years old). Ski passes for 12 days are also available for around 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 roads connect in Mayrhofen mountain valleys, each of which provides opportunities for varied riding. But, of course, the most famous is the Tuxertal valley, leading to the largest glacier in Austria - Hintertux, thanks to which skiing is possible all year round in Mayrhofen. In general, the Tyrolean Valley unites ten skiing regions at altitudes from 550 m to 3286 m, connected by both common trails and excellent by bus. Therefore, to ride the legendary Hintertux or relax in the water park in the evenings, you don’t have to live in Mayrhofen itself: you can find inexpensive apartments in one of the villages nearby.
Trails:up to 150 km of groomed trails, most of which belong to the blue (entry level of difficulty) or red (intermediate) categories. The length of the black slopes is up to 20 km: this also includes a slope with the eloquent name “Harakiri”, the slope of which reaches 78 degrees.
Ski season: all year round.
Ski pass cost: 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 from 92 euros for 6 days of skiing.
Kaprun
For real fabulous place for those who want not only to have a great ride, but also to breathe in the atmosphere of the real, original Alps. Touching provincial town located at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn mountain with a height of 3203 m, from which the “tongue” of the Kaprun glacier stretches, providing the opportunity for year-round skiing.
Kaprun itself is more like a classic alpine village framed by a mountain wall: there is no snobbery, noise, or fuss, and therefore it is ideal for a family holiday. The local will give tourists a special atmosphere medieval castle and prepared trails for mountain walks in any season. For many years, the signature attraction of the ski resort was the mountain train, which could take you to the glacier area, but it was replaced by a cable car - which is also good.
Trails: about 50 km of prepared blue and red slopes, as well as over 30 km of cross-country ski trails. If you wish, after enjoying the alpine atmosphere of Kaprun, you can easily and quickly get from the town by bus to Zell am See - a more modern and noisy resort with an abundance of different trails, including black ones.
Ski season: all year round.
Ski pass cost: 209 euros for 6 days. For children (under 15 years old) and youth (under 19 years old) prices are reduced by approximately one and a half to two times.
Where to go if you...
…just learn how 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 skiing 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 the mountains, but also cross-country skiing: Mayrhofen, Kaprun, Zell am See, Innsbruck;
…love to roll down the slope straight to the hotel door: Hochgurl, Obergurgl, Obertauern, Zürs;
...thirst varied recreation with daily change of activities: Ischgl, Sölden, Lech, St. Anton, Saalbach-Hinterglemm;
…would like to have a peaceful holiday with your family and children: Kitzbühel, Kaprun, Mayrhofen, Zell am See, Serfaus;
...don’t ski, but want to feel the atmosphere of a ski resort and not get bored: Kitzbühel, Kaprun, Bad Gastein, Seefeld, Innsbruck;
…love to eat delicious food: Ischgl, Kitzbühel, Bad Gastein, Mayrhofen, Seefeld, Innsbruck, Kirchberg, Seefeld;
...need a variety of evening entertainment, parties and shopping: Ischgl, Mayrhofen, St. Anton, Obertaurn, Bad Gastein, Innsbruck, Seefeld.
The most popular ski resorts in Austria:
Land of Tyrol (Ischgl, Serfaus, Sölden, Seefeld, Mayrhofen, Kitzbühel, and others)
Voralberg Land (St. Anton, Lech)
Salburgerland (Saalbach, Zell Am See, Kaprun, Badgastein, Badhofgastein and others)
How to choose a resort?
There are many ski resorts in Austria, and even more so, a lot of hotels. In order not to make a mistake in choosing the appropriate level of pistes, the availability of thermal pools, apres-ski, or a hotel, it is important to work with a knowledgeable and reliable partner. It is with such partners that we select, specifying all your wishes, a resort, a hotel, and a comfortable flight. We think through every component of your vacation. And in addition to making the right choice, the partner you trust will check the availability of a specific room in a specific hotel, make sure that your check-in is comfortable and smooth, and will always be there if you have any questions during your vacation.
The main advantages of skiing in Austria are a huge selection of slopes, modern infrastructure, thoughtful pricing policy and, of course, the famous Austrian “apres ski”. How to choose the right route for your ski trip to Austria? There are opportunities for winter holidays in Austria at any resort. We hope that our information will help you make the right choice.
Brief overview of ski resorts in Austria:
1. Ski resorts with the most extensive ski area
There will never be a shortage of different trails to choose from. You can choose a new route for yourself every day.
Ischgl - 210 km of pistes
Ziller Valley (Mayrhofen - Zell am Ziller - Hippach) - 624 km of pistes
Region "Arlberg" (St. Anton - Lech - Zürs) - 276 km of pistes
Saalbach-Hinterglemm - 200 km of pistes
2. The highest ski resorts in Austria.
The high altitude of the resort guarantees good snow throughout the season.
Sölden + Obergurgl - Hochgurgl - max. 3250 m
Mayrhofen - max. 3250 m
Kaprun - max. 3030 m
Arlberg (St. Anton, Lech) - max. 2868 m
3. The most youthful and fun ski resorts in Austria.
After skiing, numerous bars and restaurants, night shows and discos, fashion shops and many other entertainment await you. It's always noisy and fun here.
Sölden, Mayrhofen, St. Anton, Ischgl, Saalbach, Kitzbühel, Zell Am See.
4. Resorts for a relaxing and respectable holiday.
Here you will find a calm and measured holiday + excellent skiing.
Obergurgl+Hochgurgl (near Sölden). Family resorts with a relaxed, homely atmosphere.
Lech and Zurs. Lech is more expensive and pretentious, attracting VIP guests and celebrities. Zurs is quieter, calmer and more homely (but no less expensive).
Seefeld. An elegant and inexpensive resort for VIP guests. Favorite place holidays for the European artistic elite.
Bad Gastein / Bad Hofgastein. Resorts for the respectable public. There are casinos, thermal baths, and restaurants. The atmosphere at the resort is calm and respectable. People come here for health and inspiration.
Hinterglemm (near Saalbach). Calm, family resort.
5. Alpine skiing in Austria, best for children.
Children's ski gardens, amusement parks, mini-clubs, children's schools, and children's discos are waiting for your children.
Serfaus is an ideal option. A specialized resort designed primarily for families with children. On family vacation Many hotels specialize. The resort has 2 huge children's amusement parks and much more.
Sölden, Mayrhofen, Zell am See
6. Austrian mountains, the most popular among snowboarders.
The best conditions for snowboarding: fan parks, pistes, opportunities for freeride and freestyle.
Ischgl (one of the four best European snowboarding areas)
Serfaus, Fiss (according to the Austrian snowboarders themselves, Serfaus is the best in Austria for this sport)
Sölden (the season opens every year with the Snowboard World Cup)
St. Anton (one of the best snowboarding areas in the world)
Goal Am See (considered ideal place for beginner snowboarders)Zillertal Valley (Zell am Ziller, Mayrhofen, Hintertux)
In such places there are many wide and easy trails, which are very convenient for beginners to practice alpine skiing.
Serfaus, Seefeld, Oberlech, Zell am See, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, Saalbach
8. Ski resorts in Austria, popular among professionals.
These resorts have many interesting and challenging trails for advanced skiers.
St. Anton, Lech, Ischgl, Innsbruck, Sölden, Mayrhofen, Kitzbühel
9. Austrian resorts with ample opportunities for off-piste skiing:
Hinterglemm, St. Anton / Lech / Zürs, Kitzbühel
10. Ski tours, which combine opportunities for skiing and thermal resorts:
Sölden/Längenfeld (Aqua Dome)
Badgastein, Badhofgastein
11. Resorts with glacier skiing areas.
These resorts offer year-round skiing!
Innsbruck, Mayerhofen, Sölden, Zell Am See
Alpine skiing is Austria's No. 1 sport. New ones open here every year ski slopes and hotels, infrastructure is being improved, service is being improved, and new air routes are opening. In total there are about 800 skiing regions in Austria. Most of them are located in Tyrol, Salzburg region, Vorarlberg. Less - in Carinthia and Styria. Alpine skiing has been very popular in Austria for a long time.
Ski tours to Austria - these are extensive ski areas and a wide variety of slopes; comfortable and cozy hotels, boarding houses and apartments for every taste and budget and a good price-quality ratio; democratic atmosphere and very varied apres ski.
Alpine skiing tours in Austria are available to you throughout the year, because... the country has 8 year-round ski resorts located on glaciers.
How to get there:
Can be reached by direct charter flights to Salzburg and Innsbruck, as well as on direct regular flights of Austrian Airlines from Dnepr and Kyiv. It is also convenient to get to Tyrol from Munich, where there are direct regular flights from Kyiv. Klagenfurt Airport is located 3 km from the capital of Carinthia. You can only fly to this airport with a transfer.
LAND TYROL
This is one of the most interesting mountainous areas peace. Here are the most famous resorts, castles and other attractions. Tyrol is often called the “heart of the Alps”. In Tyrol there are about 600 mountain peaks more than 3000 m high. Five high-mountain glaciers. There are more than 119 ski areas in total. For snowboarders, 32 ski areas in Tyrol have created fun parks with jumps, halfpipes and other obstacles.
Sölden is considered one of the best ski centers in Austria. Guaranteed snow cover (2 glaciers). 150 km of varied trails. Excellent opportunities for freeriding. Very good opportunities for snowboarders. Excellent opportunities for après ski. Noisy discos and bars, a large sports center with swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzi, bowling. The prices are quite affordable.
Elevation difference - 1377 - 3250 m. / 141 routes - 23 blue, 73 red, 45 black.
Kitzbühel
Cute town with little historical center. Perfect for lovers of ski safaris and snowboarders. Fashionable party. Casino. Excursions and other sports are offered. Suitable for both young people and athletes, and for families with children.
Elevation difference - 800 - 2000 m. / 327 pistes - 73 blue, 71 red, 23 black.
For many years now, it has rightfully maintained the image of the most prestigious and sought-after resort. It is famous for its slopes, most of which are located above 2000 m, so the season lasts until the beginning of May. Excellent opportunities for both skiers and snowboarders. And also for après ski and shopping. Many fashionable and prestigious bars, restaurants, discos, boutiques of elite brands.
The resort is famous for its rich range of entertainment events. The most interesting part of the resort life of Ischgl begins in the evening after 22.00-23.00 hours and continues until dawn. Particularly popular among resort guests are the Kushtal bar, which offers relaxation right outside in good weather, and the Trofana Alm cafe. Disco lovers prefer to have fun in hotel nightclubs, such as the Wunderbar in Madlein or the disco bar of the Elisabeth Hotel, where strip shows are held, and the Tene club is considered the most impressive. More accessible entertainment is curling, bowling, hang gliding, horse riding. Works in the city sports complex with saunas and swimming pools. The performances of world-famous “stars”, marking the opening of the ski season, also brought considerable fame to the resort. Ischgl has many shops and boutiques. In addition, it is convenient to travel to the Swiss resort of Samnaun, where duty-free shopping flourishes. Local Duty Free sells tobacco products, alcohol and perfume. When shopping, you should not get too carried away, as customs officers may check overloaded bags and backpacks.
Elevation difference - 1377 - 2864 m. / 200 pistes - 30 blue, 130 red, 40 black.
The total length of the trails is 238 km, the black trails alone are 45 km!
Trofana Royal 5* is a luxury hotel with a huge wellness center, a gourmet restaurant awarded a Michelin star and luxurious rooms. Located 100 m from the cable car.
Piz Buin 4*sup. - a very popular hotel thanks to its high quality for reasonable money. The hotel is completely renovated, excellent rooms, large spa complex. Hotel ski in/ski out.
Elisabeth Arthotel 5* is a luxurious hotel with new, magnificent rooms. The hotel is a few meters from the cable cars. The spa complex is located on the top floor with panoramic windows.
Mayrhofen
The most democratic resort. Cheerful, youthful, noisy. The skiing is very interesting and varied. There is a separate area for children and beginners. Guaranteed snow cover on the Hintertux Glacier (20 minutes from Mayerhofen by bus). Holidays here are quite economical. Guests can enjoy not only skiing, but also snowshoeing, rock climbing, and paragliding. Flights to hot-air balloon And much more.
Elevation difference - 600 - 2095 m. / 143 pistes - 42 blue, 84 red, 17 black.
Serfaus - Fiss - Ladis
A resort that boasts 100% snow from November to March. What’s interesting is that there are no cars or ski buses at the resort, only sleds, motorized sleds, and teams.
Elevation difference - 1200 - 2700 m / 160 pistes - 40 blue, 96 red, 24 black.
Serfaus, which has gained the status of a family resort, does not boast as intense a nightlife as other ski resorts in Austria. There are only two discos here - Filou Bar Dancing and Noldis Kellerbar, whose dance floors can accommodate 180 and 100 people respectively. The main entertainment remains night sledding, but every village of Serfaus has excellent conditions for active recreation. Guests can enjoy paragliding flights, allowing you to enjoy the majestic mountain landscapes, and exciting sleigh rides along a track that rises to a height of 500 m and then descends into the valley. In Comperdelle, one of the Serfaus stations, there is a “Take off Center” - a rental point for the most modern equipment. Here you can find everything, even scooters, and for a fee it is offered to master up to four newest types sports in one day. The new fan park “Tubing-park” has created excellent conditions for riding scooters and skidoo - motorized sleds on ski-tracks. Not far from “Tubing-park” there is a mini-skidoo park for children from 6 to 16 years old. Once a week, from 6 to 10 p.m., a torch show by instructors from the Serfaus ski school is held on Copmerdell with fireworks, light and color special effects; Drinking gluwein contributes to general merriment. The show program includes the “dance of snowcats” - bulky machines for rolling snow.
Hotel Lowe & Bar 4* - a hotel consisting of two buildings - Lowe 4*sup. and Bar 4*. Great family hotel with Alpine style rooms. The hotel has everything for children - game room, Hipp baby and canned food, a real water park. For adults - a luxurious spa center, outdoor and indoor heated pools.
Hotel Cervosa 5* - the hotel combines modernity and Tyrolean-Alpine style. Expensive luxury hotel. Gorgeous views of the mountains from all rooms, a huge wellness center, outdoor and indoor pools, a restaurant with gourmet cuisine.
Hotel Alfa 4* - the hotel opened in 2012. Located just a couple of minutes walk from the ski area. The hotel is of a very good standard for a reasonable price. Nice rooms, spa complex.
This is one of the most popular and famous mountain regions in Austria. It is located on the border of Tyrol and Vorarlberg. There are five resorts in the entire region, united by a ski area and a shared ski pass. Heliskiing is very popular in this region - skiing on virgin soil with a helicopter transfer to the top.
St. Anton
It occupies one of the first places among the elite ski centers of the world. Overall assessment: variety of slopes, their length, excellent ratio of the length of slopes and lifts. In general, skiing here is for experienced and well-prepared people.
Elevation difference - 1304 - 2868 m. / 160 pistes - 40 blue, 80 red, 40 black.
Leh is considered the most fashionable and prestigious in high society. One of the first ski lifts was built here. The tracks rise directly from the hotels. The village has a unique appearance thanks to the grandiose landscape around it.
Elevation difference - 1450 - 2453 m / 260 pistes - 100 blue, 100 red, 60 black.
Saalburgerland
There are 25 large ski areas in the region.
Bad Gastein - Bad Hofgastein
Thermal springs + interesting skiing. Suitable for both family and have a relaxing holiday. In addition to skiing, you can take courses of treatment or health improvement.
Elevation difference - 830 - 2686 m. / 201 routes - 60 blue, 117 red, 24 black.
In Bad Hofgastein night life proceeds calmly and measuredly, but the resort has acquired the status of an elite and prestigious place relaxation thanks to its healing thermal springs. The Thermal Temple health and wellness center has developed a set of treatment procedures aimed at restoring health and relieving fatigue. Wellness programs use minerals, oils and herbs, apply different kinds baths, treatment with mud and serum, all kinds of rinsing and dousing. Underwater therapy carried out in a thermal pool is especially effective for diseases of the musculoskeletal system. In Bad Hofgastein there are apres-ski restaurants on the mountain tops, and in the large entertainment center, located at Stubenkogel station, you can find an alternative to winter fun. Guests can enjoy playgrounds, children's cinemas, a children's playroom and computers. There are also kindergartens.
Recommended hotels:
Norica Therme 4* (Bad Hofgastein) - a hotel with an underground passage directly to the thermal baths, through which hotel guests can go directly to the thermal pools in their bathrobes. The ski lift is 400 meters away. Cozy rooms, excellent cuisine.
Osterreichischer 4* (Bad Hofgastein) is a small, cozy hotel. The rooms are decorated in warm colors. There is also a covered passage to the thermal baths. Like everywhere else, there is a spa complex.
Das Alpenhaus Gastein 4* (Bad Hofgastein) is an Alpine-style hotel after recent renovation. Tasty and healthy food is the pride of the hotel. The thermal complex is 300 meters away, the ski lift is 500 meters away, a ski bus runs.
Goal Am See - Kaprun
A town with its own history. There is a variety of skiing for skiers of all skill levels. Very funny. Many discos/bars, restaurants with varied cuisine. Thanks to the developed railway connection, you can visit many attractions located in the region. The goal of Am See can be called economical.
Elevation difference - 760 - 2000 m. / 75 trails - 25 blue, 25 red, 25 black.
This is one of the largest mountain regions in Austria. The skiing in the region is simply wonderful. The network of lifts is well thought out. There are ski and snowboard schools for both children and adults. A very noisy and fun après ski, often until late at night. Good conditions for snowboard lovers.
Elevation difference - 1000 - 2100 m. / 200 pistes - 15 blue, 95 red, 90 black.
Very interesting après-ski of Saalbach. Young people have fun until the morning in discos, bars and restaurants with live music, and Austrian national shows are popular among tourists of all ages. Guests can enjoy cozy alpine huts, horse-drawn sleigh rides, sports centers with swimming pools and saunas, and a bowling alley.
Hinterglemm has indoor tennis courts, an indoor swimming pool and an ice skating rink. As part of the annual Russian Ski Weeks program, Hinterglemm hosts many events for Russian tourists, including noisy folk festivals. The party club "Avalanche" and the more reputable club "Classic" are always happy to welcome guests - lovers of evening entertainment.
The resort of Sölden is known for its lively and noisy atmosphere after a day of skiing. It offers numerous apres-ski establishments and 23 cozy mountain huts. Eight discos in Sölden, 26 bars and pubs invite you to have fun and dance until dawn. For fans of active daytime recreation, there are sled and cross-country ski slopes, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and a sports center with a swimming pool, sauna and solarium. Horseback riding, snowmobile riding, and snowshoe hiking are possible. There is a cinema.
The resorts of Obergurgl and Hochgurgl are quiet and peaceful at night. For late-night lovers, only the Nederhuette restaurant and the Edelweiss hotel bar are open. Those who want to listen to Tyrolean singing (yodeling) should visit the “KrumpnStadl” at the Austria Hotel and the “Hexenkuch"l” at the Jenewein Hotel. The main apres-ski entertainment is horse riding ice skating rink and swimming in the indoor pool.
AUSTRIAN CUISINE
Surely, when you hear the word “Austria” you will immediately think of Vienna, the waltz, and, of course, the delicious Viennese apple strudel, because Viennese pastries are some of the most luxurious in the world.
About Austrian cuisine, first of all, it should be said that it is very traditional, in the sense of its regionality. Tyrolean cuisine has a strong Italian influence, while Salzburg has German influence; but in general there is a lot in common with the cuisines of Eastern Europe (the imperial past, after all): with Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovenia. And also with Turkey. This is due to long-term military conflicts. In particular, the famous strudel (or strudel - an apple roll made from very thin dough) is of Turkish origin, as is the Viennese coffee culture (Kaffehaus). The influence of other countries is visible even in the names: Salzburg dumplings, Viennese strudel, Linzer torte, Burgenland kripfels, etc.
Today, Austrian cuisine remains one of the few that necessarily includes first courses in the lunch menu. And for the second - meat again, most often beef or pork. The Austrians themselves, in order to introduce their cuisine, recommend trying boiled beef in the old style, Beuschel - a delicacy from the heart and lungs of domestic animals, Kuttelgrostel - tripe and Buchteln - pies with filling. And of course goulash (for example, from Jerusalem artichoke), perhaps the most popular dish in Austria. Instead of seasonings and spices, they prefer onion rings fried in oil.
Due to the distance from the sea, fish is not very popular, except for river fish. But carp is a must at Christmas. And the tourist gastronomic clichés are, of course, Wiener schnitzel, Sachertorte and Austrian beer.
Austria is famous throughout the world for composers, beer and schnitzels. But no less important is the fame of this small country provide stunning Alpine ski resorts, the rumor about which flies throughout 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 because 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. Certainly, ski schools are present, but if you want to build up your experience, then 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. On cable cars You can climb to a height of 3300 meters. And for a peaceful rest of body and soul, the Aquadom health center is located not far from the resort.
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 Austrian ski holidays begin. Back in the 30s of the last century, Hannes Schneider discovered 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, one 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 - there are about 70 lifts on each 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 in 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 by more high points.
Austrian summer warm, sometimes even hot, but there is still no scorching sun there. Dry weather helps cope with the heat. If in winter time most of tourists flock to the mountains, then 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 the streets 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 night Alps 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 range of souvenirs and gifts for relatives for every taste. Sometimes there are skating rinks, and there are playgrounds for the little ones.
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!