Austria is home to some of Europe's most celebrated ski destinations, combining exceptional terrain with authentic alpine culture. From the legendary slopes of St. Anton to the glamorous runs of Kitzbuhel, each resort offers a unique experience that keeps skiers returning year after year.
St. Anton am Arlberg
Often regarded as the birthplace of alpine skiing, St. Anton am Arlberg has earned its reputation as one of the world's premier ski destinations. Located in the Tyrolean Alps, this resort offers an impressive 300 kilometers of marked runs as part of the Ski Arlberg area, making it Austria's largest interconnected ski region.
What Makes St. Anton Special
The resort is particularly renowned for its challenging off-piste terrain and steep couloirs, attracting expert skiers from around the globe. However, St. Anton has expanded its offerings in recent years, with improved beginner areas and intermediate runs that make it accessible to a broader range of skill levels.
Key Highlights
- Part of Ski Arlberg with over 300 km of slopes
- Elevation range: 1,304m to 2,811m
- World-class off-piste opportunities
- Vibrant apres-ski scene
- Historic skiing heritage since 1901
The village maintains its traditional Tyrolean charm despite its international fame. After a day on the slopes, skiers can enjoy the legendary apres-ski scene or explore the charming pedestrian center lined with boutiques and restaurants.
For more detailed information about St. Anton, visit the official St. Anton am Arlberg tourism website.
Kitzbuhel
Kitzbuhel combines medieval charm with world-class skiing, creating an atmosphere unlike any other resort in Austria. The town's well-preserved historic center, with its colorful facades and cobblestone streets, provides a stunning backdrop to your skiing holiday.
The Legendary Hahnenkamm
The resort is globally famous for hosting the Hahnenkamm races, considered the most demanding downhill competition in the World Cup circuit. The notorious Streif run, with its dramatic jumps and icy terrain, draws spectators from around the world each January.
Key Highlights
- 170 km of perfectly groomed slopes
- Home to the famous Hahnenkamm World Cup races
- Beautiful medieval town center
- Excellent dining and luxury shopping
- Snow-sure slopes with modern snowmaking
Beyond the famous race course, Kitzbuhel offers excellent intermediate terrain and a network of lifts connecting multiple ski areas. The resort has invested heavily in infrastructure, ensuring comfortable and efficient access to all areas.
Learn more at the official Kitzbuhel tourism portal.
Ischgl
Known for its high-altitude, snow-sure slopes and legendary entertainment scene, Ischgl has established itself as one of Austria's most dynamic ski destinations. The resort sits in the Paznaun Valley and connects with Samnaun in Switzerland, offering a unique cross-border skiing experience.
Snow Guarantee and Modern Infrastructure
With slopes ranging from 1,400m to 2,872m, Ischgl enjoys excellent snow conditions throughout the season. The resort operates one of the most modern lift systems in the Alps, with high-speed gondolas and chairlifts minimizing wait times.
Key Highlights
- 239 km of slopes across Austria and Switzerland
- Duty-free shopping in Samnaun
- Top Concerts with international artists
- Excellent snow reliability at high altitude
- Diverse terrain for all skill levels
Ischgl is equally famous for its entertainment offerings. The resort regularly hosts major concerts featuring international artists, and its apres-ski venues are among the most sophisticated in the Alps.
Visit the official Ischgl tourism website for current conditions and events.
Zillertal Valley
The Zillertal Valley offers something truly special: four major ski areas under one ski pass, culminating in Austria's only year-round ski resort at the Hintertux Glacier. This diversity makes it an excellent choice for groups with varying abilities and interests.
Four Resorts, Endless Possibilities
The valley encompasses the Zillertal Arena, Ski- und Gletscherwelt Zillertal 3000, Hochzillertal-Hochfugen-Spieljoch, and the famous Hintertux Glacier. Together, they offer over 500 kilometers of connected slopes accessible with a single pass.
Key Highlights
- Over 500 km of slopes across four areas
- Year-round skiing at Hintertux Glacier
- Family-friendly villages and facilities
- Excellent ski schools with English instruction
- Traditional Tyrolean atmosphere
The valley maintains a more traditional, family-oriented atmosphere compared to some of Austria's glitzier resorts. Charming villages like Mayrhofen, Zell am Ziller, and Fugen offer comfortable accommodations at various price points.
Explore the region at Zillertal's official website.
Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Saalbach-Hinterglemm stands out for its incredible variety and the famous "Skicircus" that allows you to ski a massive 270 km circuit without ever repeating a run. The resort consistently ranks among Europe's best for intermediate skiers.
The Skicircus Experience
The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn is perfectly designed for exploration. You can spend days discovering new runs, challenging yourself on different terrain, and enjoying the variety of mountain restaurants along the way.
Key Highlights
- 270 km of interconnected slopes
- 70 modern lifts including 10-person gondolas
- Excellent intermediate terrain
- Lively village atmosphere
- Award-winning mountain restaurants
The twin villages of Saalbach and Hinterglemm offer a youthful, energetic atmosphere with excellent dining options and lively evening entertainment. The resort has invested significantly in snowmaking, ensuring reliable conditions throughout the season.
Find more details at Saalbach's official tourism site.
How to Choose Your Resort
Selecting the right resort depends on your priorities and skiing ability. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:
Resort Comparison
| Resort | Best For | Terrain Level | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Anton | Expert skiers, off-piste | Advanced | Traditional, lively |
| Kitzbuhel | Luxury seekers, history buffs | Intermediate | Elegant, sophisticated |
| Ischgl | Party lovers, snow guarantee | All levels | Modern, energetic |
| Zillertal | Families, variety seekers | All levels | Traditional, relaxed |
| Saalbach | Intermediate skiers, groups | Intermediate | Youthful, sociable |
Practical Considerations
- Budget: Zillertal and Saalbach typically offer better value, while St. Anton and Kitzbuhel sit at the premium end.
- Travel: Innsbruck and Salzburg airports provide convenient access to most resorts, with transfer times ranging from 1-2 hours.
- Season: While most resorts operate December through April, high-altitude areas like Ischgl and the Hintertux Glacier offer extended seasons.
- Group needs: If traveling with mixed abilities, consider resorts like Zillertal or Saalbach that cater to all levels.