Austria is the UK’s second most popular country for ski holidays and with its picturesque resorts, world class skiing and dynamic après it’s easy to see why. This essential guide will help you get to grips with the key Austrian ski areas and resorts, as well as what cuisine to try and how to make the most of the après scene.
St Anton truly is world-class and definitely one of the best ski areas in the world. It's sometimes known as the 'cradle of skiing' after it played its part in inventing the sport. And with over 300km of perfectly pisted runs (linking into Lech, Zürs, Stuben and St Christoph) and a seriously good lift system, it's easy to see the appeal!
Off the slopes, St Anton's reputation is just as strong. The après-ski scene is pretty legendary in its own right. Bars like the Mooserwirt draw huge crowds and bring the resort to life after the slopes close. The village of St Anton is very charming with a traditional Tirolean feel and onion-domed churches, loads of shopping and no cars in the centre.
Set in the beautiful Ziller Valley, Mayrhofen is a gateway to the Zillertal ski area which boasts over 500km of pistes and access to the nearby Hintertux glacier - all included on the whole area lift pass and connected with a free bus. It’s also a convenient one hour 20 minute transfer from Innsbruck airport.
The ski area is large, varied and high with amazing panoramic views. The terrain offers a good mix of cruisers and steeps and is well laid out for beginner skiers around the mid station of the Finkenberg. For advanced skiers there is the Harakiri piste, the steepest slope in Austria (a 78% incline), as well as some impressive off-piste ski terrain.
Austria is without doubt the king of après-ski. Even the smallest lift stations and mountain huts have atmospheric bars ready to serve thirsty skiers and boarders. Some resorts go all out with Mayrhofen leading the pack.
Mayrhofen is very lively and particularly popular with groups of young adults. Expect a party on the piste at pop-up bars, igloo bars and ice bars with thumping music. The most laid back option is the White Lounge ice bar, near Ahorn cable-car top station. The coolest spot to sup a cocktail whilst taking in the late afternoon sun. Off the mountain you’ll be spoilt for choice with numerous venues, including the new Speak Easy Arena, offering dancing till the early hours.
Austrian food it hearty, flavoursome and with some great sweet options available, you’ll definitely consume enough calories to fuel a day on the slopes. The Wiener schnitzel is popular and the Austrian version is made with veal, hammered as flat as possible and battered. Apple Strüdel is Austria’s most famous dessert and is best served with a liberal sprinkling of icing sugar and a Viennese coffee on the side.
Almdudler is considered the national drink of Austria, a soft drink based on mountain herbs and a popular mixer with white wine. Mulled wine has been a popular winter drink since the Middle Ages and nowhere more so than in the mountains of Austria. Nothing warms your core more on a cold day in a mountain hut.
If you imagine what a ski holiday looks like; stunning mountain views dotted with wooden huts, traditional villages and après everywhere you turn; then Austria is it. Ski holidays in Austria are a magical experience for all ages and abilities. And if you're looking for activities off the slopes, then you will be spoilt for choice as most resorts have a range of off-piste activities for adults and kids alike.
Mayrhofen hosts international festivals that draw huge crowds, including the Altitude Comedy festival and the Snowbombing music festival. For those looking for something lower key, strolling around the charming village centre of St Anton can while away the hours.
