With picture-postcard scenery, an excellent snow record and a wide variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skier, Austria remains one of Europe’s most popular ski destinations. If you are unsure of which resort will suit you best, here is a guide to five of Austria’s very best.
Kitzbuhel
The “Pearl of the Alps” is arguably the most famous ski resort in Austria and regarded in many quarters as one of the best in the world. Kitzbuhel offers a true all-round winter holiday experience combining ultra-modern facilities with a charming medieval town setting. Despite being home to the famous Hahnenkaam men’s downhill race, Kitzbuhel has slopes suitable for all levels of skier, from beginner through to professional. During the evening, the friendly locals will ensure you have a good time in the numerous pubs and bars scattered throughout the town.
Ziller Valley
For an all-encompassing winter sports experience, the resorts which make up the Ziller Valley area are hard to beat. In addition to a range of ski slopes suitable for all skill levels, visitors can try their hand at other winter sports such as snowboarding and glacier skiing. The most popular of the resorts in the Ziller Valley region is undoubtedly Mayrhofen. A favourite with younger skiers due to its excellent nightlife, Mayrhofen offers skiing all-year round.
Oberlungau
Somewhat underrated in comparison to some of its more illustrious neighbours, Oberlungau boasts charming unspoilt villages, uncrowded slopes and some of the finest tuition in the country. The resorts of Oberlungua have always prided themselves on the very high standard of ski tuition, making this area a firm favourite with schools taking their pupils on trips. Adult skiers are equally welcome here and will find the lack of queues and crowds a pleasing change from the norm.
Skiwelt
Not just the largest interconnected ski area in Austria, Skiwelt is one of the largest such areas in the world. Upon arriving here, it is easy to see why this ski resort was voted the best in the world in 2009. Offering world-class facilities, an ultra-modern lift system, a myriad of restaurants and bars and a collection of charming villages, it seems that Skiwelt has it all.
St. Anton
Along with Kitzbuhel, this is probably the most famous ski resort in Austria. St. Anton has a very large ski area but is probably better suited to skiers who are at least at the intermediate level. Although there is a beginner’s slope, most of the courses are for intermediate or advanced skiers. Indeed, St. Anton is most favoured by experienced skiers who relish the challenge of tackling the many tricky slopes here. One of the liveliest resorts in the country, St. Anton often attracts huge crowds.
Whatever your level of skiing prowess, the country of Austria is sure to have resorts and slopes to suit all. The professional set-up of each resort, along with the charming scenery and friendly locals, make Austria an excellent choice for your next winter sports adventure.
