Best Ski Resorts in Austria

Austria is a renowned hotspot for skiing, with its Alpine landscape and consistently heavy snow making for a prime winter sports destination. Austria, along with neighbouring countries Switzerland and France, which all share the Alps mountain range, are some of the top skiing and winter sports destinations in Europe, but what ski resorts in Austria come out on top, and why? Whether you’re looking to snowboard, toboggan, ski or ice skate, Austria is the perfect place to live out your ultimate winter holiday dream. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best ski resorts in Austria.

1. Kitsbühel Ski Resort

Consistently ranking at number 1 and one of the highest-rated ski resorts in the country, if not the continent, the Kitsbühel Ski Resort is renowned for its up to 2000-metre ski slopes and high-altitude pistes that make skiing a challenge, even for the most experienced. The Streif ski slope gives many avid skiing enthusiasts a run for their money, contrasting with beginner slopes of the perfect height to help you gain confidence when skiing.

2. Ski Arlberg

Cited as ‘the cradle of Alpine skiing’, the Arlberg mountain range hosts some of the best-loved ski resorts in the country, including the iconic Ski Arlberg and Stanton am Arlberg, the former of which is Austria’s largest ski resort. With snow aplenty, you can rely on this top-quality ski resort for the best of winter sports at multiple skill levels.

3. Ischgl 

Standing at around a 3,000-metre altitude, the slopes and pistes at Ischgl Silvretta Ski Resort are not for the faint of heart, but expert skiers will feel right at home. Also the host of several other winter sports and winter concerts, this resort has a lot to offer, including shorter beginner slopes for those who are new to skiing and don’t want to brave the heights just yet.

4. Saalbach 

The Saalbach Ski Resort is arguably Austria’s best-loved, with piste on piste of thick snow that’s ideal for an abundance of winter sports, as well as every level of skiing. Saalbach also hosts excellent quality ski lodges and huts, to help you really live the true ski resort experience.

5. Obergurgl

With heights reaching over 3000 metres above sea level, you know you’re in for a real experience at Obergurgl, with slopes that match each ability and skill level so everyone is included. With the stunning Alps providing the scenic backdrop as you ski, snowboard or partake in winter sports, you won’t find a better or more picturesque location to practise and engage in your favourite winter pastime.

6. Mayrhofen

Effortlessly combining the most challenging and steepest slopes with beginner and intermediate pistes, Mayrhofen is the perfect destination for all kinds of winter holidaymakers. Mayrhofen also includes fun parks, bars and ski lodges/igloos to help you truly make the most of your trip.

7. Alpbachtal

This award-winning ski resort in the heart of the Austrian Alps takes luxury to the next level, with every recreational winter activity and sport you could think of, plus restaurants for a pit stop and refreshments in between activities. Want to experience 360° views of the Alps and mountains? Why not take a cable car right up to the top once you’re done skiing? The sheer size and beauty of the ranges will take your breath away.