Ski Europe: The Best Ski Resorts in Austria

Both families and thrill-seekers looking for vibrant nightlife options will find a wealth of options at Austrian ski resorts, offering runs tailored to beginners, intermediates and advanced skiers alike. With Austria's abundance of ski resorts, this guide will narrow down the selection to highlight some standout destinations that cater to a diverse range of travelers.

The best ski resorts in Austria for families

• Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in the Tyrol region is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive facilities for children. While the terrain leans towards stronger skiers, there are dedicated children's areas, ski schools and adventure parks at one of Austria's highest resorts. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is lesser-known outside of Europe, meaning less traffic and congestion while ensuring kids have a blast on and off the slopes with the abundance of activities available.

• Saalbach-Hinterglemm is one of the largest ski resort areas in Austria. Saalbach and Hinterglemm are two villages nestled at the end of the Glemm Valley and, combined with Leogang, form the Saalbach Skicircus, offering access to 120 miles of pistes. Ideal for beginners to good intermediates with a few black runs for advanced skiers. The resort also offers a range of non-ski activities, including sledding – the night sledding is said to be a blast – and snowshoeing.

• Obergurgl, one of the "snow-surest" resorts in all of Europe, boasts a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great choice for families looking for a more relaxed ski vacation. The resort's wide, gentle slopes are perfect for beginners and young children. Off the mountain, little ones can run wild in tiny Obergurgl, where traffic is rare and the après-ski scene is tame, but parents can still find a place to enjoy a drink or two after a day on the slopes.

The best ski resorts in Austria for a grown-up, romantic vibe

• Lech ski resort, nestled in the picturesque Arlberg region of Austria, offers an exceptional alpine experience. With over 305 kilometers of slopes, the resort caters to skiers of all levels within the expansive Arlberg ski area. After a day on the slopes, visitors can unwind in the charming village center, enjoying a variety of après-ski options ranging from cozy mountain huts to stylish bars. Known for its luxury accommodations and world-class amenities, Lech was even a favorite of Princess Diana's. The resort has it all, from excellent terrain to fantastic restaurants and a more cosmopolitan feel than many other resorts.

• Zell am See shines with its lakeside setting, nestled in the Austrian Alps, offering stunning lake and mountain views. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities, including skiing on the Schmittenhöhe slopes and the nearby Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, as well as snowshoeing, ice-skating and sledding. The village center has a lively après-ski scene with charming cafes, restaurants and bars.

• Bad Gastein is renowned for its natural thermal springs, stunning mountain scenery and rich history. Couples and singles alike can enjoy the relaxing thermal baths and spas while exploring the vast Ski amadé ski area for winter sports. The town's picturesque setting and historic charm make Bad Gastein a unique destination that combines wellness, adventure and alpine beauty.

The best ski resorts in Austria overall

It must be said that all the resorts mentioned in this guide could be highlighted in more than one category, but these are my top choices.

• St. Anton is one of Austria's top resorts, renowned for its challenging terrain and vibrant après-ski scene. It is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders. Accommodations are available for a wide range of budgets, and restaurants and nightlife are plentiful!

• Mayrhofen stands out as one of Austria's largest and most sought-after resorts, offering connections to neighboring ski areas and even glacier skiing. Boasting a diverse range of accommodations, along with numerous restaurants and nightlife venues, Mayrhofen is an excellent choice for active travelers seeking just as much excitement off the slopes.

• Kitzbuhel, renowned for its charming medieval center, upscale amenities and world-class skiing, is an excellent choice for a wide range of travelers and budgets. The town's classic charm offers a unique blend of tradition and modern luxury. The terrain offers a diverse range of slopes catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, along with a vibrant après-ski scene and numerous gourmet restaurants. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping skiing or leisurely strolls through the cobblestone streets, Kitzbühel provides an experience sure to deliver an authentic alpine experience.

While I've summarized nine Austrian ski resorts and mentioned quite a few others in this guide, the vast offerings in the country make it a ski lover's dream. Many of the best ski resorts in Austria are in close proximity for those who want to "mountain hop," yet the quality of the resorts also provides a multitude of choices for spending an extended period in once place. Yes, France, Switzerland and Italy are some of the most popular ski destinations in Europe, but I hope this guide serves as a catalyst to explore their eastern neighbor!