The best ski resorts in Austria

Where do the words Brettljause, Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and Kaiserschmarren make you think of (and drool over)? Yep, these mouth-watering dishes sit alongside flowing beer, fresh pow, and lively après-ski in none other than Austria.  

Across the Tyrol region, Austria’s eastern border, and more, there are some insane spots to charge the mountain, dance on tables until your feet hurt, and gorge on Spätzle and Nockerl. But which Alpine village should be at the top of your Austrian travel list? And are all Austrian ski resorts created equal?

Don’t go anywhere! We have them all right here in our ultimate guide to the best ski resorts in Austria. We’ve included big-name resorts alongside hidden gems for every type of rider – and partier. So, gather your gear and book those flights. Don’t worry about packing your lederhosen, though (unless it’s that kind of après), reach for a new ski jacket and ski pants instead. 

Best ski resorts in Austria

 Kitzbühel

The word ‘Kitzbühel’ often sends shivers down most downhill racers’ spines. That’s because it’s home to the legendary Hahnenkamm mountain and the Streif downhill ski race courses – the gnarliest, most unforgiving on the World Cup circuit. Oh, and it reaches 85% vertical in places. Anyone else suffering from vertigo just reading that fact? 

Don’t worry, though – there’s no way you’re expected to take on this reputation-making (and body-breaking) course — well, you can try the flatter sections after race day if you want to. If not, though, there’s more than enough rad, varied terrain around Kitzbühel to keep you busy – over 134 miles, to be exact. 

Intermediate riders love it here. And beginners are just as welcome – simply sharpen your skills in the Kinderland nursery area. Or, if you’re more advanced, check out one of the resort’s off-piste routes for ungroomed powder fun. Don’t forget you can also buy the Kitzbühel Alps SuperSkiCard, giving you access to the world’s largest ski network with over 1,709 miles of pistes across 21 ski areas!

Park pros will also love the two terrain parks at the Hangalm and the Horn with their varied range of kickers, boxes, and rails. And, when you’re done riding in the Hahnekamm’s shadow, venture into the famous Kitzbühel town, once voted Europe’s most beautiful ski resort. This glamorous village has an epic history, designer boutiques, luxurious hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and flash people who know how to party (including frequent visitor Arnold Schwarzenegger). 

Top tip: Do you find fresh pow to be the ultimate hangover cure? Hire a guide and head into the off-piste terrain. Kitzbühel has over 124 square miles to explore – more than enough to turn your hangover sighs into ‘yews!’. 

Söll 

After a party? Set your sights on Söll. Newbies, intermediates, and those who want to tear things up in après-ski’s spiritual home (sorry, France) will love this ski resort. Our top picks are Moonlight for classic Austrian singalongs and Whiskey Muhle to dance off those sore legs. 

If you’re after cruising over boozing, though, then you’ll love Söll. It’s the gateway to the massive SkiWelt domain with 174 miles of laid-back groomers and intermediate slopes, making it perfect for families and those finding their groove. The experts among you might want to swerve Söll, however – although you can reach Kitzbühel’s rad advanced terrain via the SkiWelt circuit for miles of ungroomed, off-piste pow. 

Riding with the family in tow? They’re sure to be huge fans of Söll’s traditional Alpine vibes and how much there is to do off the mountain. Check out the aqua-leisure center, go ice skating, and jump on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. There’s also a floodlit toboggan run for your after-hours adrenaline fix. 

This cute Tyrolean village is also perfect if you’re watching your purse strings. There are loads of budget-friendly dining and lodging options. And you’ll be surprised by how many bars and pubs there are for such a small-scale resort. Well, you are in Austria, after all, where après-ski reigns supreme! 

Top tip: Get ready to use the ‘Night Mode’ setting on your phone. Yep, if you want to ride once the sun sets rather than après, you’re in the right place. Söll is home to Austria’s biggest night skiing area, with over six miles of floodlit pistes. 

Mayrhofen

Ah, Mayrhofen. This resort holds a soft spot in our hearts thanks to its Insta-worthy aesthetic, rad slopes for skilled riders, and hella-fun party spots. It’s the perfect trifecta. Oh, and let’s not forget Vans’ Penken Park. This place is a thing of beauty with lines for all abilities – from park pros to complete newbies. Of course, powderhounds will also drool over Mayrhofen with its wide-open pow fields. 

There are two mountains in Mayrhofen: the cruisey, mellower Ahorn, and the gnarlier Penken. After something super challenging? Try Harakiri on Penken mountain, Austria’s steepest groomed run. It has a 78% average gradient, is around 4,921 feet long, and has a vertical drop of 1,230 feet. It’s also named after the Japanese term ‘seppuku’, meaning ritual suicide by samurai. Make of that what you will …

If you’re after something a little less daunting (but still pretty advanced), try the Devil’s Run. The locals call this the ‘Harakiri Test’, so make sure you can do this before attempting the real thing. Whichever you choose, you’ll want to calm your nerves in Ahorn’s White Lounge. There’s an igloo party every Tuesday. Just don’t stick your tongue to any of the walls …

Once you’ve survived the mountain, it’s time to launch into the cute, fun Mayrhofen village. Head to Mo’s Cafe and Brück'n Stadl for an après session to remember (well, depending on how much you drink). Thinking about having a white Christmas? Trust us – Mayrhofen is like a movie set come Christmas, with markets and carolers and an Advent event focusing on local customs. You’ll get into the Christmas spirit like never before!

Top tip: If you’re wondering when to visit Mayrhofen, make sure it’s when Snowbombing is on. This is the planet’s longest-running, biggest winter music festival that’s seen the likes of Mark Ronson, Fatboy Slim, Sub Focus, and Pendulum grace the stage. It’s après turned up to 11! Just make sure to get your tickets early as it sells out fast.  

Saalbach

If your mantra is ‘go big or go home’, Saalback is made for you. It provides access to one of the country’s biggest lift-linked ski areas, and there’s nothing mellow about the après-ski scene here either. Party hard in the Hinterhag Alm and Goaßstall before finishing on a high in Castello or The London Pub. 

Before you can sink a cold one, though, the days are about exploring the Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn ski area (quite a mouthful, that). As the name suggests, this is more than one resort combined. And the result is an insane 168 miles and three snowparks for you to tear up.

This vast area has something for everyone. Cry tears of joy in Fieberbrunn, a freerider’s paradise, and check out the laid-back blues around Saalbach village. Our favorite part about the area (also called the Ski-Circus) is that you can ride a circuit around the resort or take on the 3,280 feet of vertical, straight down. The choice is yours! 

For serious freeriders, there’s also a Freeride Park with near-endless routes for all abilities, LVS search fields and checkpoints powered by Ortovox, avalanche warning reports customized to the region, and more. Night shredding is also possible at Hinterglemm. Don’t forget to send it in the floodlit, feature-packed terrain park, too. 

Top tip: Mix things up by checking out Saalbach’s other facilities. There’s piste-basher driving, quad biking, snowmobiling, and more. If you’re after something without an engine, jump into a horse-drawn sleigh. 

Obergurgl

You want to be guaranteed two things when heading to the mountains: good snow and good times. Luckily, Obergurgl offers shed-loads of both. Its high altitude (between 6,332-9,842 feet) means there’s always reliable snow coverage, even as late as May. 

And, down in the village, its après scene is way more laid-back than rowdy Sölden. In fact, the whole village has a peaceful, relaxed vibe, making it perfect for families and kids. If you’re looking for rowdiness, though, venture to Sölden on the Ötztal Super Skipass. You’ll also have access to an extra 89 miles of trails, three mountains, and two glaciers. Then, when it’s the last man standing at the bar, hop on the bus back to your ski-in/ski-out accommodation in Obergurgl. Believe it or not, ski-in/ski-out accommodation is rare in Austria – but Obergurgl has it in spades! 

If your idea of a good time is getting into the backcountry, Obergurgl can deliver on that front, too. Just ride to Vent, a small town nearby, available on the Ötztal Super Skipass. From there, you can reach vast high-altitude areas with huts and refuges to rest, refuel and recover. 

On piste, Obergurgl’s 70 miles are perfect for beginners and growing intermediates. Yep, if you’re into laid-back cruising, revel in the winding, chill blue and red trails throughout Obergurgl. If you’re into mellow vibes, you can explore almost the whole resort on cruisey blues. 

Top tip: Everyone deserves a pit stop, right? Make yours at the awesome Nederhutte on your way back down the hill. A local father-and-son rock band duo (yes, really) runs this small ski hut at 6,902 feet with insane food and super fun après, complete with live music! 

Zell am See

Okay, we all ride for that rush. But, another big part of why we do it? Those views, man! And you can’t beat them in Zell am See. This might just be the most stunning ski resort in Austria … And that’s a big claim! 

But who can blame us? There’s the massive lake and glistening peaks of the Kitzsteinhorn and Hohe Tauern range. And how could we forget the village? You’ll walk around with your jaw to the floor thanks to the cute, old-town vibes, complete with a Gothic church, boutiques, bars, and restaurants serving drool-worthy Austrian dishes. 

With non-skiers? They’ll be stoked to spend a day in Zell am See with its spas, market shopping, and lakeside strolls. If they’re into other sports, they’re in the perfect spot – Zell am See is known as the ‘Europa Sport Region’, claiming it offers a different activity for every day of the year. Once you’re all finished raising your heart rates, raise a glass in town at Villa Crazy Daisy or Off Piste Bar, both après legends of Zell am See. 

When it comes to riding, you’ll get your fill, too. Zell am See provides access to Kaprun, making it one of Austria’s biggest ski areas. Think we’re kidding? Try over 253 miles of rideable pistes, including the Kitzsteinhorn glacier ski area with its supreme pow descents, natural pipes, and cliff jumps. And those views we mentioned earlier? They’re mind-blowing from over 9,840 feet! Or how about going even bigger? Bag yourself a Zillertal Superskipass to access a gargantuan area, 338 miles across four huge ski regions, including Mayrhofer Bergbahnen. That should certainly keep your schedule full and your legs burning! 

Top tip: If you’re one for earning your turns, check out Thumersbach, opposite Zell am See. It features the Ronachkopf – basically a whole mountain dedicated to ski touring, with an uphill groomed track and blissful downhill piste match. If you want to keep your skins on for the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, you can. There are two marked ski-touring circuits up there. No excuse, then, not to skin up and ride down! 

Ischgl

Hands up if you head to the mountains as much for the après-ski as for the riding. Us too! You’ll go crazy for Ischgl, then, with its hella-lively scene that might just make it one of the best après-ski spots on the planet. And most of that is down to world-famous bars such as Kuhstall, Hotel Elizabeth, and Trofana Alm. Expect a real Austrian après at all three with soul-shaking oompah trance. Don’t forget to check out Pacha nightclub and the Schatzi Ice Bar too! 

And for riding off your hangover, you’re set in Ischgl with its snow-sure pistes and modern lift system. The lifts take you straight to the large Silvretta Arena ski area, while the same lift ticket means you can also access Galtür, Kappl, and See (three nearby resorts). Or how about spending the morning in Austria and the afternoon in Switzerland? It’s all totally possible in Ischgl with its 149 miles of pistes. 

There’s more than enough between the six valleys for every riding ability, particularly intermediates. Experts will also have their pick of tricky Black runs and stellar off-piste terrain. In fact, there’s an expansive freeride playground to explore from Piz Val Grondola’s summit (at 9,225 feet!). 

Picky about your parks? Ischgl’s Jeep Snowpark will satisfy you. It’s one of Europe’s best terrain parks with a half-pipe, 35 features, and the continent’s longest pro-line. And once you’re done tearing up the park, you’ll want to tear into some food. Luckily, Ischgl has you covered with plenty of award-winning restaurants. Our favorites are the Gourmet Restaurant Stüva and Stiar.

Top tip: Keen to mix mountains with music? Keep an eye out for the iconic Top Of The Mountain shows. These have-to-be-seen-to-be-believed concerts usually take place at the start and end of the season. Past headliners have included Elton John, Tina Turner, P!NK, and Rihanna, so who knows who you might catch at 7,500 feet above sea level! 

Lech

If you’re into chasing snow over Schnapps or Stiegl, you’ll want to hear about Lech. It has over 13 feet of the white stuff per season and is smaller and more chilled than its St Anton counterparts. However, it still offers access to the awesome Ski Arlberg region, the same vast network of runs as St Anton. Plus, if you want to dip in and out of the mayhem, you can visit St Anton via the Flexenbahn cableway. 

And you’ll certainly want a few stops when tearing up the Ski Alberg area. That’s because it’s home to a whopping 187 miles of pistes (making it one of the five largest connected ski areas in the world) with 88 lifts and cable cars. This mind-boggling number of groomers means intermediate riders will fall in love with Lech. 

Honestly, there are so many fun blues and reds around this resort. And if you’re more advanced, the Ski Arlberg area will still test you with its 124 miles of ungroomed runs. And the best ‘yew’ inducing off-piste stuff is also right on your doorstep in this ski resort. Try the off-piste trails from the Madloch (above Zürs) towards Zug and the top of the Trittkopf. You’ll quickly see why Absinthe Films regularly shoot their off-piste lines here and why the Freeride World Tour chooses Lech as a regular stop.

Another bonus about Lech is that they limit the number of lift tickets during peak periods, so you’ll never find yourself on a mega-swamped slope. When it’s time to unwind, Lech’s cobbled village streets offers an array of accommodations for all budgets – from self-catered apartments to luxury five-star spa hotels. Just remember, royalty often vacation here, so there’s definitely a touch of decadence to this resort.  

Top tip: On the hunt for the best Glühwein in the Alps? You’ll find it in Lech! Just head to the Hotel Tannbergerhof's Eisbar and warm up with one (or two!) after a day in the cold. 

St Anton

People all over the world have heard of St Anton – and for good reason! You’ll find some of the Alps’ most demanding terrain here. And don’t worry – the après doesn’t let you off lightly, either. 

There are mellower slopes along the Nasserein, however, generally, St Anton isn’t for the faint-hearted. In fact, it’s believed that a red run here would be marked as black in any other resort. So, intermediate, advanced, and expert riders will find plenty of tricky runs throughout St Anton’s 187-mile area to keep them busy. 

Expect challenging steeps (particularly off Mount Valluga’s 9,222-foot summit) and more than enough world-class off-piste to sink your teeth into. Fancy trying the stuff of legends? Ride ‘The Run of Fame’, a 53-mile-long circuit that takes you around the entire Ski Arlberg region (Austria’s biggest ski area at 189.5 miles). Oh, it’s also got a combined vertical drop of 59,055 feet. So, no biggie, then … 

Down in St Anton’s car-free village, there’s everything you’d expect from an Austrian ski resort: charm, character, and classic Glühwein on tap! Yep, the après-ski scene is heavy-hitting here. Head to the infamous MooserWirt (said to sell the most beer in all of Austria!) and the notorious Krazy Kanguruh for a taste of singalongs, live music, and more dancing than your feet can handle. St Anton is certainly the place to ride hard, but après harder – just make sure it’s not your first rodeo before attempting both. 

Top tip: You’ve got to try one of our favorite runs: Schindler Spitze down to Stuben. It offers crazy-good views and descends over 3,937 feet of uninterrupted riding. An extra little bonus is that it ends in the cute village of Stuben – aka the place for secret pow stashes once the crowds have tracked out the rest up top. 

Sölden

Are you ever tempted to ride in May but fear you're too late? That’s why we love Sölden. Its link to two rideable glaciers means it’s open for shredding nearly all year round. Its high altitude of 11,000 feet also means it’s super snow-sure during winter. 

Lower down, there are an incredible 89 miles of varied terrain to rip with 6,500 feet of vertical drop! Beginners, intermediates, advanced, and off-piste riders can all get their fix across Sölden’s three mountains and two glaciers. Oh, and the US Ski Team also uses Sölden as their European training base – so you know it must be a pretty epic place. Finally, those after a challenge will want to head to Rettenbach, one of Sölden’s glaciers. Since the year 2000, it’s been the site for the Alpine World Cup, meaning the word ‘mellow’ does not feature in its description. 

Okay, Sölden’s village might not be the most aesthetically pleasing place. However, the stunning mountain scenery makes up for it. It even impressed Mr. Bond. Well, director Sam Mendes anyway – as he filmed the James Bond movie Spectre here. 

Don’t expect to enjoy any martinis here in peace, though – Sölden holds a boisterous après-ski scene! Get things going piste-side in Gampe Alm or Kuckuck before hitting the gas in Almrausch, Fire & Ice, and Katapult. 

Top tip: We’ve mentioned the James Bond movie Spectre already. But how about following in Mr. Bond’s footsteps (or should that be tracks?) yourself? Take the nine-mile Ötztal Glacier Road Tunnel run from the top of the glaciers. It’s the exact same trail used for the chase scene in Spectre. 

Wrapping up 

There’s no denying that Austria delivers when it comes to epic ski resorts. It leads the way with an awesome combo of full-on après-ski and insane terrain that keeps you coming back for more. 

Amped for Austria? Book that trip! And once you’re there, don’t forget to tag us @dopesnow to show us your Austrian attire on the slopes … and on those tables! 

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