The best ski resorts in Austria

For the best riding in the Alps, Austria might just take the crown. And with some of the most beautiful, liveliest, coziest, and just darn cutest resort villages on the planet, it’s virtually unmatched. 

With over 400 resorts to choose from – ranging from high-altitude glaciers to powdery tree runs – this country is famous for its skiing. So, where better to visit than the (argued) birthplace of Alpine skiing? Read on to discover our top picks for this spectacular ski destination.

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Top 10 ski resorts in Austria

St. Anton am Arlberg, Ski Arlberg

We begin with the biggest – and possibly best-known – resort in Austria. St. Anton is the crown jewel of the Ski Arlberg region, a sprawling network of seven interconnected ski resorts offering over 310 miles of trails, along with a slice of the country’s best terrain, deepest powder, and liveliest nightlife. That’s a hard combo to beat.

St. Anton is a sizable town at 4,265 feet (1,300 meters) and has a quintessential Austrian vibe. With plenty of traditional chalet-style designs, there’s lots to fall in love with. You’ll have the choice of cozy B&Bs, catered chalets, apartments, or hotels, which range from the small, family-run, and reasonably priced to luxe and lavish. Our favorites include the PETE Alpine Boutique Hotel, the Hotel Arpuria, and the MOOSER Hotel for a luxury Alpine fix. There are also a host of restaurants and bars to check out. Restaurant Hazienda and the Museum Restaurant-Cafe are 100% worth it for the gastronomists among you. And for après-ski? MooserWirt is an epic first stop and a must for anyone visiting. Then, there’s the sun terrace at Taps, the live DJs at Basecamp, and the non-stop party at Krazy Kanguruh!

The mountain is really the thing to come for, though. Several lifts and gondolas head out of town, whisking you up to lofty heights. Kapall is at 7,644 feet (2,330 meters) and provides awesome open powder fields and access to intricate tree skiing on good snow years. Valluga and Schindler Spitze require a little hopping around but open up to the best marked (and unmarked) off-piste and freeriding from 9,222 feet (2,811 meters) and 8,727 feet (2,660 meters), respectively! And for the powderhounds among you? Ride over to Warth-Schröcken, the snowiest resort in the Alps, averaging over 33 feet (10+ meters) of snow per year. Alternatively, aim for Lech-Zürs and Stuben, which get around 23 feet (7 meters) and are easier to access. You can stay in these resorts, although the vibe is more subdued. But, hey, 33 feet of snow a year? Who needs 3 am DJ sets when the powder is bottomless?

Saalbach Hinterglemm, Skicircus

Next on our list is the mighty Saalbach Hinterglemm. What it lacks in sheer verticality, it makes up for with terrain variety, infrastructure, and quaintness. The Skicircus area is made up of Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Vorderglemm, Leogang, Fieberbrunn, and Eiböckalm. Together, they boast a vast network of interconnected trails. The history of these villages stretches back as far as the 13th century. They’re awash with picturesque streets, traditional chalets, boutique hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants as far as the eye can see.

Saalbach and Hinterglemm proper are technically two separate villages along the same valley. But they’ve become so synonymous with the Skicircus area – and so famous for their epic skiing and vibrant nightlife – that they always get packaged together. Of the two centers, Saalbach is the smallest and provides easy access to the Schattberg-Ost, Bernkogel, and Kohlmaiskopf high points, all of which provide a host of riding for all abilities. At the same time, Hinterglemm takes you to the Schattberg-West and Zwölferkogel peaks. The latter offers some pretty incredible freeriding, but all five have a good amount of terrain to raise your stoke.

What comes after riding? You’re spoilt for choice, with Saalbach Hinterglemm branding itself an après-ski resort. Around 3 pm, aim for Turmfalke for classic open-air DJ sets in ski boots, right on the slopes. From there, take your pick! Goaßstal is a 300-year-old former livestock barn that’s a total institution in the town and goes until the early hours. For more dancing, head to Spitzbub Après-Ski Bar. Looking for a relaxed atmosphere with friends? Burgi’s Bar and Bärnalm are great. Or, if you want something late-night, Zum Turm serves up drinks in the vaults of the old church tower. And Castello reigns supreme as the most legendary nightclub in Saalbach. Live DJs shake the place well into the early hours!

Ischgl, Silvretta Arena

Talking of epic après … Ischgl is as famous as it is infamous for its flowing drinks, gently falling snow, and less gently falling over after a long night of raucous après. But‌ it’s also a beautiful town, home to endless snow-capped peaks, cozy hotels and chalets, and live music. Time it right with its huge ‘Top of the Mountain’ venue, and catch world-class performers and DJs rumbling the whole valley. Their Closing Concert happens at the end of April and has seen the likes of Elton John and Robbie Williams headline. It’s a show not to be missed!

The mountain itself forms part of the Silvretta Arena, a vast area connecting Ischgl with Samnaun, offering hundreds of miles of trails to explore. With a network of intermediate-focused trails around the town, there’s plenty for the more experienced rider to enjoy. Plus, you’ll find lots of sun-drenched bowls filled with cruisey Blue runs in the upper reaches of the resort. Experts will want to pilgrimage out to Piz Val Gronda at the far ends of the network, reaching 9,226 feet (2,812 meters) and providing amazing marked and off-piste terrain that always promises fresh tracks. Ischgl is also known for its terrain parks, ranging from beginner lines to big kickers suited to those who really love to fly. Lines can get long in the mornings, though, with only three gondolas going up to the network. However, once you’re up for the day, you won’t come down until the afternoon.

Now then, the resort! Ischgl is fairly compact, but it definitely packs a punch. Most of the accommodation is reasonably priced three- and four-star hotels, well-suited to the younger crowd looking to maximize their time out of their rooms. But there are upmarket options, too, including the Hotel Trofana Royal and Elizabeth Arthotel, a pair of five-star hotels for those who want to do it in style. For us, though, the Schlosshotel Ischgl has an awesome mix of luxury and value with its prime location, beautiful rooms, stunning architecture, and, well, everything else! And for those in it for the party? Kuhstall is the obvious choice if you like packed après venues, loud music, and stomping ski boots. Alternatively, check out Trofana Alm for more of the same. And, of course, there’s Schatzi Bar, famed for its in-house DJs, dirndl-clad dancers, and epic party vibes that contribute to Ischgl’s status as the ‘Ibiza of the Alps’.

Mayrhofen

Just because Mayrhofen appears this far down the list doesn’t mean it wasn’t jostling for the top spot! Mayrhofen is a sizeable resort nestled at 2,067 feet (630 meters) and offers a host of riding on all sides. Expect amazing powder-laden tree lines, above-the-treeline bowl riding, hair-raising black groomers, and skiing up to 10,663 feet (3,250 meters) on the Hintertux Glacier. There’s something for everyone here, including epic après and food!

Let’s talk snow first. The Ahorn area lies to the south of the town. It’s a compact, quieter ski area with excellent intermediate terrain and freeride lines. Thanks to its north-facing aspect, the snow piles up during storms and keeps its lightness longer than the south-facing slopes across the valley. However, you’ll find the main ski area (and endless fun) on those south-facing Penken slopes. Ride up to 8,202 feet (2,500 meters) on this side and access brilliant low-angled, high-Alpine powder meadows – so fun to cruise! Want to dip a toe in the deep stuff? There’s a good amount of marked off-piste. But, if there’s not much fresh snow around, or you’re heading there early or late season, catch the free resort bus up the valley to the north-facing Hintertux Glacier. There, you can ride its eye-watering 5,741-foot (1,750-meter) vertical.

Then, you’ll want a beer, right? There’s no better place than Pilzbar and Elchbar. They’re at the top of the Penken cable cars, which ferry riders down until 5 pm, so you can get those post-ride drinks at altitude! If the party scene calls you, Brück'n Stadl always has top-notch DJs spinning their decks. For more laid-back pub-style fun, though, hit up Scotland Yard Pub. Then, when the night wears on, line up Ice Bar or the Speakeasy Arena for some great post-midnight tunes! And, of course, for endless partying, hit Mayrhofen during Snowbombing, a week-long electronic music festival. Remember that tickets sell out fast, and accommodation sells out faster, so don’t sleep on it!

SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental

Sizing up the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixtenal region for your next trip? You’ll be stoked to find out it’s the largest ski area in Austria – and one of the prettiest, too. You’ll have a choice of a few sizable towns to stay in, including Söll, Ellmau, and Brixen im Thale. There are a few smaller towns with less going on, such as Going, Itter, Scheffau, Hopfgarten, and Westendorf. You can still gain access to the area from these. And, whichever resort you choose, you’ll have a beautiful, snow-laden Austrian village and epic riding.

You can hit the trails most easily from Brixen im Thale. That’s because you’ll join the Brixen im Thale and Westendorf ski areas from the same base station. Söll grants access to its own area and that of Brixen im Thale and gives simple routes into the Scheffau area, too. There, ride up to 6,001 feet (1,829 meters), which provides just under a mile of vertical to enjoy! This whole area is known for its craggy peaks and lush tree skiing, so try to catch it in the middle of February for the best snowpack and chance of fresh powder. As it’s lower than many other resorts, there’s definitely less snow in the early season, and you’ll cruise groomers in the low snowfall years‌. Still, if groomers are your thing, this place has the largest number, the biggest variety, and one of the best networks anywhere in the country.

Let’s talk about the towns, then! While the SkiWelt area is more subdued than some of the other party resorts on this list, plenty of après goes on! In Söll, you’ll have lots of variety, including the Hexenbar and Moonlight Bar, two famous spots. There’s also the Whisky Mühle for some spirit. Over in Brixen, there are a few choice spots, too. The Brixner Stadl is a great après pick with a laid-back atmosphere, while the Brix Bar is where you’ll want to head for your late-night fix. However, if major partying is what you’re after, this isn’t the place to do it. We recommend coming here for the quiet Austrian ski experience, the amazing scenery, and the frankly endless riding!

Kaprun, Kitzsteinhorn

Kaprun may not have the sprawling network of trails that other resorts do. However, it offers super reliable glacier riding up to 9,843 feet (3,000 meters), brilliant marked off-piste and freeriding – thanks to its 3,281-foot (1,000-meter) vertical – and a lively town packed with hotels, restaurants, and bars to suit all visitors!

Let’s get into the mountain first! Kaprun’s ski area is self-contained but has two sections. The lower section just above the town has a few good runs, with a learner area, a snow park, and a sledding run. The upper section is accessed via the 3K K-onnection cable car from the Maiskogel high point or directly via the cable car or funicular from the Gletscherjet base station. From here, you can continue on the gondolas, hopping out at any point to experience Kaprun’s amazing terrain. You’ll discover the toughest, most exciting descents off the Gipfelwelt 3000 high point by bearing skier’s right as you come down, aiming for the X3 trail or from the Maurerlift. This is less popular than other spots but has tons of freeride opportunities!

For heading back to town, catch the 3K K-onnection gondola back to Maiskogel, and then hit one of a few incredible après spots! On the way down, stop for a drink at the Jausenstation Häuslalm. Then, why not continue to Baumbar – a pumping spot known for its wild parties and staying open until 4 am? If that’s not an option, Off Piste Bar is a very close second. Paletti Pizza Bar is more chilled, while Pavillon is a truly traditional Austrian bar and the locals’ favorite! In terms of hotels, there are lots of cool spots, all of which have good access to the lifts. Mountain Hotel Luis is a clean and modern mountain-inspired choice. And the Ever Grün Kaprun is a cool, eco-themed hotel, perfect for reconnecting with nature!

Obergurgl, Gurgl

Hochgurgl and Obergurgl, which form the Gurgl area, are both amazing choices for an Austrian getaway if you’re looking for something at the upmarket, luxury end of the spectrum. With their base at 5,905.5 feet (1,800 meters) and riding up to 9,941 feet (3,030 meters), they boast one of the most snow-sure ski networks in the country. Plus, thanks to their 4- and 5-star hotels, you’ll enjoy it all in style.

On the mountain, you’ll find plenty to do. Beginners will want to hang around lower down, while the advanced riders will discover plenty of excellent terrain to explore up high. The Plattachbahn lift gets you the highest, but the Hohe Mut Bahn II gondola opens up the best freeride terrain and touring routes on the Obergurgl side. Take the Top-Express gondola over to Hochgurgl. From here, get up to the Top Mountain Star high point at 9,941 feet (3,030 meters) and enjoy a 3,251-foot (1,000-meter) descent. Many awesome on and off-piste opportunities exist on both sides of the mountain. However, there’s more beginner terrain and Blue runs on the Hochgurgl side. Luckily, a free ski bus runs from Obergurgl to Angern and Pill. This gives you direct access to the Hochgurgl Bahn I gondola, which takes you directly into the ski network.

If we’re talking lavish hotels, take your pick! The Alpen-Wellness Resort Hochfirst is a 5-star hotel offering the complete ski and spa package. Looking for a unique stay? Book the Josl Mountain Lounging Hotel, a modern destination, perfect for relaxation. After something more regal? Check into the Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl, with its traditional feel and wood-paneled ceilings. Gastronomy is also a big deal here. Hit up Hotel Enzian for their fondue evening in their Tyrolean Lounge. For something unforgettable (and with a stellar view!), book a window table at Alepnhotel Laurin’s ‘Esstaurant’. Many fantastic hotel restaurants and gourmet spots serve locally sourced, sustainable, and delectable dishes. For pre or after-dinner drinks, there are lots of options. Visit Top Mountain Star on the mountain for an awesome experience! And then, in town, Fassl is a barrel-shaped spot with plenty of atmosphere. There’s also Toni’s Almhütte, Josl Keller, and so much more to see!

Sölden

When Sölden’s website declares the ski area ‘has it all’, you know they must have the goods to back that up. Well, with three peaks over 9,843 feet (3,000 meters), two glaciers, and a 007 James Bond Adventure World, Sölden is certainly one of Austria’s best places to ski. The town’s no slouch either, with everything from upmarket hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs. And for nightlife, well … we won’t spoil anything just yet.

Okay, so, the mountain! This huge and self-contained area has so much in every corner, but it's tricky to get from one end to the other. So, with that in mind, line up your accommodation with where you want to spend the most time. The Gaislachkogl is a 10,033-foot (3,058-meter) peak right above the town, and you’ll take the Gaislachkogl Tal gondola to get to it. There’s lots to do here, both above and below the treeline, with the Wasserkar Bowl offering incredible freeride opportunities. This is where you’ll find the 007 Adventure World, too. The other side of town serves up the Rotkogljoch and Hainbachjoch high points above 8,530 feet (2,600 meters). Both provide super fun open powder fields to rip! You’ll also need to be on this side to get across to the Innere Schwarze Schneid high point at 10,958 feet (3,340 meters). You’ll cross over the Rettenbach Glacier and gain access to the Tiefenbach Glacier, one of the most snow-sure places in the country. You’ll discover many great high-altitude routes here, too, making Sölden a freerider's paradise.

After a long day of exploring the mountain, why not kick your feet up at a comfy hotel? The Mühle Resort 1900 is an adults-only hotel with beautiful rooms, outdoor hot tubs facing the mountain, and a superb spa. But if you want something really spectacular, head to the Aqua Dome 4 Sterne Superior Hotel, an amazing 4-star hotel with a huge outdoor thermal pool network and so much more! And once you’re rested and ready, hit some of the best après in the Alps. There’s the Umbrella Bar, a prime spot no matter the weather. When it’s sunny, they open the top, and when it’s snowing, they close it. But either way, the music is loud, the drinks cold, and the atmosphere electric! Don’t want to miss a game? Marco’s is probably showing it. If you want more of a party, Philipp is always reliable. Want to soak up the sun instead? Zum Kuckuck and GIGGI Tenne are the places to be!

Zell am Ziller, Zillertal Arena

We leave behind the adult-centric buzz of Sölden and journey to a much quieter, more family-centric village nestled in the Ziller region of Austria. Zell is branded as family-first, and its website states, ‘A veritable children’s paradise awaits you here in the snow’. So, if you have little ones, this is the spot! They also have a four-mile floodlit toboggan run, perfect for kids small and big.

The ski area has over 310 miles of runs, too, so don’t think for a second it’s just easy Greens suited for children. Head up to the Karspitze high point from the town or towards Gerlossteinwand. The latter is a small self-contained area with great tree riding and a small learner area. The former, on the other hand, gets you into the whole network, riding up to 8,202 feet (2,500 meters) at the Übergangsjoch. This side is where you’ll find the best riding for those with their snow legs. Learners and little ones will have plenty of fun here, with ski schools meeting at the Rosenalm mid-station, providing two six-seater chair lifts to the Red runs above. They’re perfect for mum and dad to lap while the ankle biters get their lessons! You can also venture further into the network once you’re at the Übergangsjoch, aiming for the Arena Center, and even further towards Königsleitenspitze (don’t worry, we can’t say it either), where endless trails await.

Down in town, you’ll discover tons to do. Check out the Leisure Park for outdoor ice skating, or if the weather’s not playing ball, there’s bowling and tennis. Once the kids are tuckered out, the parents might be interested in the BrauKunstHaus brewery! There’s not much in the way of nightlife here, but there are excellent restaurants and wine spots. Restaurant Wilde Kräuterküche has a small gourmet menu prepared with local flair and herbs from their garden. Restaurant DieMarie has been kicking up a fuss since its opening, serving authentic Austrian cuisine with a modern twist. Schulhaus Tirol is a fancy little spot with a stunning view of the valley, serving a selection of super gourmet offerings. However, if you’re in the mood for something liquid, head to Englhof Bar, an award-winning cocktail spot serving the best drinks in the Zillertal area!

Kitzbühel, KitzSki

Kitzbühel claims the final spot on our list, and for good reason. This legendary ski resort is home to The Streif, the world-famous downhill ski course, a storybook village, and so much more. While Kitzbühel is known for being a family-friendly, quiet, quaint resort – away from the hubbub and big hotels of the livelier Austrian destinations – that doesn’t mean it’s short of excitement!

While there’s lots to do for people who don’t ski, the riding is pretty epic in Kitzbühel. Its lower elevation means that high-altitude powder riding is better left to the likes of Sölden or the Gurgls. However, if tree skiing and groomer cruising are your bag, there’s tons to be had. Staying in Kitzbühel proper gives easy access to the main network, where you can ski up to 5,479 feet (1,670 meters) on the Hahnenkamm face. Hop across to the Steinbergkogel area for the steepest terrain and off-piste routes for those with more experience. Or, carry on to the Pengelstein area, which has a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. From here, catch the Kitz 3S-Bahn across the valley to hit the terrain above Jochberg and Pass Thurn. Or, if you elected to stay on the other side of town, head up to the Kitzbüheler Horn at 6,548.5 feet (1,996 meters) and enjoy varied terrain above the treeline!

Back in town, there are a few choice spots for a post-ride drink. The Londoner is a famous British-themed beer den with a party atmosphere you can’t help but enjoy. Want clubbing? Check out Take Five, a club open until the early hours. The Pavillon and KitznBar also have good happy-hour parties during the season. Hotels are pretty relaxed here. However, you’ll find a few great ones. Going sans kids? Book the Hotel Schwarzer Adler Kitzbühel, an adults-only spot with the expected hot tubs and a beautiful restaurant. Aim for the Hotel Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort if you want chalet chic. And for quirky? Line up the Q! Hotel Maria Theresia. Just expect antler chandeliers in the dining room!

Honorable mentions

We did our best to whittle down these options. However, with so many ski resorts to choose from, we no doubt left out some greats:

Obertauern, Zell am See, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Axamer Lizum, Ski Juwel, Kaltenbach, Bad Gastein, and a few more narrowly missed the cut, and all offer something special! 

Didn’t see what you were looking for above? Check these out to see if they tick your boxes. However, we’re sure at least one (if not all!) of our top 10 sounds like the best snow trip ever!

Wrapping up

Well, that’s it: a mighty article filled with mighty resorts. There’s the high, the low, the raucous, and the laid-back. Whatever your poison, there’s sure to be a ski resort to take your fancy. 

Have we missed a hidden gem? Let us know by reaching out to us at crew@montecwear.com. Otherwise, tag us in your photos and let us know if this article inspired the best Austrian ski trip ever!

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