Austria is a true paradise for skiers and snowboarders. From huge ski resorts with hundreds of kilometres of slopes to small, hidden spots, there is something for everyone. But where should you really go for your next ski trip? In this blog, we show you the best ski resorts in Austria – from legendary classics to underrated hidden gems. Whether you're looking for endless runs, untouched powder or relaxed ski days away from the crowds: you’re guaranteed to find your next winter adventure here!
The Classics: Austria’s Most Famous Ski Resorts
Big names, countless kilometres of slopes and plenty of variety: Austria’s best-known ski resorts are true classics for a reason. They impress with modern infrastructure, varied runs, spectacular mountain panoramas and often legendary après-ski. Whether you're a beginner, freestyler or experienced powder fan – there’s something here for just about everyone.
1. Ski Arlberg – Austria’s Largest Ski Resort
Location: Tyrol & Vorarlberg
Slopes: 301 km
Ski Arlberg is one of the absolute highlights among Austria’s ski resorts. The huge ski area connects St. Anton, Lech, Zürs and Warth-Schröcken, among others, and offers 301 kilometres of slopes with plenty of space for long days on the mountain. The Arlberg is particularly famous for its legendary freeride opportunities: more than 200 kilometres of deep-snow runs and ski routes make the region a hotspot for powder lovers. Another highlight is the “RUN of FAME” ski circuit, which takes you through large parts of the ski area.
2. Ischgl – Skiing Meets Après-Ski
Location: Tyrol
Slopes: 239 km
Ischgl is much more than just an après-ski hotspot. The Silvretta Arena connects Ischgl in Tyrol with Samnaun in Switzerland and offers 239 kilometres of slopes at elevations of up to 2,872 metres. Wide carving slopes, challenging runs and a snowpark for freestyle fans await you here. Thanks to its high altitude, the season is particularly long. After a day on the slopes, you can head straight to the legendary après-ski scene or one of the famous “Top of the Mountain” concerts.
3. KitzSki – Kitzbühel: Skiing on World Cup Slopes
Location: Tyrol & Salzburg
Slopes: 233 km
Kitzbühel is one of the most famous winter sports destinations in the world. The KitzSki area stretches from Kitzbühel and Kirchberg via Jochberg to Pass Thurn and offers everything from relaxed cruising slopes to sporting challenges. The absolute highlight is the legendary Streif on the Hahnenkamm, where the world’s best ski racers compete every year. But don’t worry: away from the extremely demanding race course, there are plenty of runs for every ability level. Add traditional mountain huts and a unique Alpine panorama, and you have the perfect ski experience.
4. Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn – The Home of Lässig
Location: Salzburg & Tyrol
Slopes: 270 km
The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn is one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Austria. With 270 kilometres of slopes, 70 lifts and more than 60 mountain huts, there is certainly no chance of getting bored. While Saalbach and Hinterglemm are known for varied slopes and lively après-ski, Fieberbrunn is particularly famous for its freeride opportunities. If you love clocking up kilometres, you should try one of the major Skicircus circuits. A real highlight for anyone who loves action, variety and a relaxed atmosphere.
5. Sölden – High-Altitude Skiing on Two Glaciers
Location: Tyrol
Slopes: 147 km
Sölden stands for high-Alpine skiing and spectacular mountain scenery. The ski area reaches up to 3,340 metres and includes two glacier ski areas: the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers. The BIG3 Rally is particularly famous and allows you to explore three peaks above 3,000 metres. Another highlight: the James Bond experience “007 ELEMENTS” at Gaislachkogl, parts of which are located inside the mountain. Whether you’re after challenging runs, glacier skiing or après-ski, Sölden offers the full winter programme.
6. Schladming – Four Mountains, Endless Possibilities
Location: Styria
Slopes: 123 km
Schladming is one of Styria’s most popular ski regions. The famous 4-Mountain Ski Area connects Hauser Kaibling, Planai, Hochwurzen and Reiteralm to create a varied network of slopes. Planai is particularly well known for the legendary night race “The Nightrace”, which attracts numerous ski fans every year. From sporty World Cup runs and wide carving slopes to family-friendly areas, there is something for everyone. Those still looking for action after skiing can go tobogganing on Hochwurzen or make use of the night-time activities.
Hidden Gems: Ski Resorts Away from the Crowds
Not every perfect ski day requires hundreds of kilometres of slopes. Sometimes, it is the smaller and lesser-known ski areas that offer the most charm: short queues, uncrowded slopes, good value for money and unique experiences away from the major winter sports centres. Some offer family-friendly slopes, others surprisingly challenging runs, natural snow or breathtaking mountain panoramas – there really is something for everyone.
Very important: These hidden gems will only keep their charm if they actually stay hidden. So shhh: don’t tell anyone – just enjoy them!
1. Hochzeiger – Winter Action in the Pitztal
Location: Tyrol
Slopes: 40 km
Hochzeiger is a true all-rounder for families, leisure skiers and sporty skiers. Between 1,450 and 2,500 metres, you’ll find 40 varied kilometres of slopes on sunny mountainsides. The ski area is also known as the home mountain of former ski racer Benni Raich, after whom a challenging black slope is named. Thanks to its manageable size, Hochzeiger offers plenty of variety without becoming confusing.
2. Goldeck – Carinthia’s Sunny Ski Mountain
Location: Carinthia
Slopes: 25 km
Sunny slopes, wide pistes and impressive views of the surrounding mountains: Goldeck is a genuine hidden gem in Carinthia. Across around 25 kilometres of slopes, both beginners and experienced skiers will find suitable runs. The panorama over the Drau Valley and surrounding peaks is particularly beautiful. If you’re looking for a relaxed day of skiing with plenty of sunshine and varied runs, this is the place for you.
3. Teichalm – Small, Family-Friendly and Easy-Going
Location: Styria
Slopes: approx. 4 km
Teichalm is perfect proof that a ski resort doesn’t have to be large to be fun. In the Styrian Almenland, a few kilometres of easy-to-navigate slopes await you, ideal for children, beginners and those returning to skiing. The dedicated KIDS Area with magic carpets makes the resort particularly family-friendly. Teichalm also has plenty to offer away from the slopes: cross-country trails, winter hiking paths and a peaceful Alpine landscape make the region an ideal destination for relaxed winter days.
4. Sonnenkopf – A Natural Snow Paradise in Klostertal
Location: Vorarlberg
Slopes: 30 km
Sonnenkopf is a great tip for everyone who loves an authentic winter experience. The ski area in Vorarlberg’s Klostertal relies entirely on natural snow and offers around 30 kilometres of slopes ranging from family-friendly runs to more demanding terrain. The high-Alpine landscape around Glattingrat at approximately 2,300 metres is particularly impressive. Anyone who prefers skiing away from the crowds and values a natural mountain experience should take a closer look at Sonnenkopf.
5. Mönichkirchen-Mariensee – Relaxed Ski Days at the Wechsel
Location: Lower Austria
Slopes: 13.5 km
The Mönichkirchen-Mariensee ski area is an ideal destination for an easy-going day trip. Located on the border between Lower Austria and Styria, it offers 13.5 kilometres of easy, intermediate and more demanding runs. Beginners can practise their first turns on gentle slopes, while experienced skiers can take on a black FIS run. Families particularly appreciate the manageable slopes, short distances and relaxed atmosphere.
6. Rauris – Skiing with National Park Views
Location: Salzburg
Slopes: 32.5 km
The charming Rauriser Hochalmbahnen ski area is located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Its 32.5 kilometres of slopes include varied runs, wide beginner areas and beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. The ski area reaches an altitude of around 2,175 metres and is particularly popular for its relaxed atmosphere. A genuine hidden gem for families and anyone who wants to combine a relaxed ski day with impressive natural scenery.
7. Hochficht – Skiing in the Tri-Border Region
Location: Upper Austria
Slopes: approx. 20 km
Hochficht is a particularly interesting hidden gem in the far north of Austria. The ski area lies in the Bohemian Forest close to the borders with Germany and the Czech Republic and offers around 20 kilometres of slopes. Wide family runs, sporty pistes and a varied children’s programme make Hochficht a popular day-trip destination. Its location away from the classic Alpine regions makes it particularly special. If you want to experience skiing in a different kind of winter landscape, Hochficht is definitely worth a visit.
How Much Does a Season Pass Cost in Austria?
Skiing has become a real luxury sport, and alongside the search for the perfect ski resort, the question of how much all this winter fun actually costs quickly comes up. In this blog article you’ll find current prices, money-saving tips and tricks, and more information about the 2026/27 ski season.
Which Ski Resort in Austria Is Right for You?
Whether you prefer a huge ski area with endless runs or a small hidden gem with a relaxed vibe, Austria has the perfect spot for every winter sports fan. Classics such as Ski Arlberg, Ischgl and Saalbach impress with their variety, while smaller areas such as Goldeck, Rauris and Teichalm stand out for their tranquillity, nature and family-friendly charm.
In the end, it’s not just the number of kilometres of slopes that matters, but above all the experiences you take home with you. So grab your skis or snowboard, pack your NAKED Optics ski goggles and clothing, and discover your next favourite winter spot in Austria!
Credits: Elias Neier, Mathäus Gartner
Note: The stated kilometres of slopes are based on information published by ski resort operators and tourism organisations. Figures may vary depending on the measuring method, the inclusion of ski routes and the extent of interconnected ski areas. Which slopes are actually open depends on the season, weather and snow conditions.
