50 best ski resorts near Innsbruck
One city, however, puts all other cities to shame for its stellar location and abundance of gnarley mountains only a fraction of time away- introducing, Innsbruck.
A few cities in Europe lie in the valley, close to so many of the world’s most famous resorts; one can only dream to live there. Places like Annecy, Aosta, Geneva or Salzburg. This dreamy chocolate box city, streets full of cafe bars, ski shops and people roaming around wearing beanies and the latest tech jacket is the perfect base to explore the slopes and beyond. Or perhaps you plan to fly into Innsbruck either way; let us help you plan your Austrian ski adventure in the Tirol with our 50 Best Austrian ski resorts close to Innsbruck.
But before you pick a ski destination, take a moment and think it through. You see, there are lots of resorts in Europe, 3,597 to be exact, with 439 of those being in Austria and they each vary in price and overall experience.
However, to have your mind blown, we’ll recommend checking out those ones in Tyrol. Where is Tyrol you ask? Well, for starters, Tyrol is a state in Western Austria. It’s located in the Alps and its famous for its luxurious and breathtaking locations, folk traditions and historic sites.
If you want to have the best of anything, the surest way to get it is to go with the industry leader. And in the world of Ski destinations, Tyrol is that for you.
In this piece, we’ll review the best destinations close to Innsbruck. So stay with us and enjoy the read!
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Best ski resorts close to Innsbruck - Quick find navigation
Top 50 ski resorts near Innsbruck
Hintertux Glacier
The Hintertux Glacier is an all-year-round ski destination (there are only two 365-day ski resorts worldwide). This alone makes it a highly sought-after location. It is located at the bottom of the Zillertal Valley and close to Olperer Mountain which stands 3,476m tall. It offers skiers powder skiing during winter and has great conditions even during spring. If you want to escape the heat ‘scorching’ the valley, a cruise to the cool mountains will do you some good.
And if you are a powder hound, you’ll fall in love with the freeriding in Better Park. The ski routes measure 57 km, and the piste area is 233 ha.
It also features kids’ land and a ski school to get beginners started. You can use the White 5, Super Skipass Zillertal, and Snowcard Tirol passes.
Kaunertal Glacier ski resort
Although the resort may be on the beaten track, it is worth making the journey to the Kaunertal Valley an adventure and an awesome experience. It’s true that the location is not the easiest to get to, but of all the hotels in Tyrol, it’s one of the most snowsure areas.
From September to June, you’ll enjoy perfect conditions on the black, blue and red pistes at 3,108 above sea level.
Despite its popularity, it has pretty short (if any) lift queues. Beginners enjoy the easy slopes marked blue while expert and advanced skiers take on FIS race piste. One of its best highlights is the black run which extends to 2.2 km. The run leads to Ochasenalm via a floodlit tunnel.
Pitztal Glacier & Rifflsee ski resort
This resort has got experts and beginners covered on the slopes; it is the highest in the region, being located 3,440m above sea level. With such altitude, you don’t have to wonder why expert skiers are always sure of excellent snow conditions from September through May.
At the peak, the view is breathtaking. The pistes are mainly red, but some are black and blue. The glacier features a halfpipe and a fun park. If you are a confident free rider, you can give the long descent from the Taschachferner glacier a shot. Or you could try the 1,500 m freeride run from Mittagskogel Mountain to the Valley.
Sölden ski resort
If you’ve watched ‘Sceptre’, the James Bond movie, you already know what this resort offers. Now all that’s left is to experience it for yourself. Sölden has an impressive ski area. It is located in a somewhat traditional environment but with innovative and efficient lift systems which give it a modern feel.
Solden has some of the highest pistes in Tyrol. It does not disappoint when it comes to off and on-pistes. The fact that it’s only 90 km from Innsbruck makes it easy to access. It also has new lifts which reach areas in Rattenbach and Tiefenbach. This addition makes it an all-season skiing destination.
Stubai Glacier ski resort
Consider Stubai if you are after a resort with perfect freeride terrain, advanced challenges and excellent snow parks. Stubai is only an hour away from Innsbruck. It has over 50 km of well-maintained slopes with varying difficulty levels.
If you are an advanced rider, you’ll enjoy the 60% gradient on the Dunhill slope. You’ll also love the off-piste runs through the open terrain.
It’s worth noting that the resort features a luxurious snowpark with facilities for pros, beginners and entry-level skiers. In addition, Stubai features family facilities, including BIG Family Ski-Camp. In this area, there are lots of magic carpets for kids to learn how to ski. And in case they get tired, there’s a kid’s restaurant on the slopes.
St. Anton am Arlberg ski resort
Hmm, where do we even start with this resort? It has almost everything a skier would want to make lasting memories in a ski vacation.
First, the resort has breathtaking views. Second, it’s perfect for serious skiers as it has some really challenging runs on the slopes. In total, the ski runs measure 305 km. Part of these runs are slopes that are perfect for intermediate and beginner skiers. In addition to this, St. Anton has an off-piste measuring 200km. The off-piste has challenging slopes, superb snow parks, racing circuits, carving areas and many meeting places to ensure you have a lot of fun.
This review would be incomplete without a mention of the Apres-ski. They are pretty impressive.
Previous tourists are fascinated by the innovation of the chairlifts and the gondolas, which are designed with advanced technology. The tech used makes the journey to the slopes an experience.
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser - Brixental
Despite its size, this resort has managed to retain its charm. Its variety is impressive and reels in all kinds of skiers. It has snowy slopes measuring 280 km. The slopes are interconnected with 90 lifts. This alone makes it one of the biggest resorts in Austria.
It goes without saying that you’ll have a blast skiing here during the day. However, if you’ve got a lot of places to visit during the day, you can schedule a night-shift ski session as well. With the flood-lit slopes, you can make better use of your time.
Also, it features several free-to-use practice areas for beginners and kids. As for the free and advanced riders, there are plenty of challenging slopes to take advantage of. Heck, there are even events and contests you can participate in throughout the season!
The SkiWelt is made up of a total of 8 villages. These include Westendorf, Soll, Scheffau, Itter, Hopfgarten, Going, Ellmau, and Brixen.
Kitzbühel ski resort
This is a huge playground for free riders and snowboarders. It has a backcountry terrain stretching over 200km of land. Moreover, it features ski routes with impressive snow powder opportunities.
To ensure that you are safe, it features transceiver checkpoints at nine stations in the mountains that update the resort on incoming avalanches. But aside from the vast backcountry terrain, it features slopes stretching for 170 km. These slopes vary and cater to beginners and advanced skiers and are connected by a total of 51 lifts.
Additionally, Kitzbuhel has numerous services, which make it perfect for kids and families.
Note: The resort won the ‘Best Ski Resort in the World’ award six years ago.
Ischgl
If you are hunting for a destination with a little bit of everything, then Ischgl is perfect for you. The resort has everything from powder ski to a strong nightlife. Those who have visited it before say it’s a party hub with versatile facilities.
The slopes measure 240 km in total. And here’s the best part, you can ski into the Samnaun village and Switzerland.
If you want to go freeriding, Hollspitze, Greitspitz, Palinkopf, and Piz Val Gronda won’t disappoint. For intermediate challenges, the area is full of easy and wide slopes. Last but not least, the resort has kid’s areas and a host of facilities that make it family-friendly.
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis
This ideal ski vacation region is perfect for families in winter and summer. The slopes are on the alpine plateau and above Tyrolean Inn Valley. It features pistes measuring 214 km in length, 68 cable cars, lift systems and cross-country trails measuring 30 km. Aside from skiing, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis has a wealth of other winter sports you can participate in. Moreover, it features several freeride routes.
If you are looking to take part in other types of activities, you’ll love this location. It has hiking trails, numerous biking trails, and a bike park. It also includes a summer fun park and a family coaster.
Zillertal Arena
This resort has everything from long cruising slopes for expert skiers to beginner slopes. The resort lies in two provinces and four mountains. It is the biggest ski area in Zillertal Valley.
Here’s why we say it’s perfect for families – it has a cable car from Hainzerberg to Gerlosstein and a family-friendly resort. This resort has around 200m of free snow tubing run. The highest point in the resort sits 2,500m high, cascading 10km into the valley in a single piste.
Moreover, the resort features several fun parks for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Some of these snowparks are perfect for children and beginners.
Mayrhofen
With large open fields, impressive terrain parks, and deep snow, Mayrhofen is one of the largest playgrounds for advanced skiers. The resort has 6 snow parks, each with a chairlift. As such, you will spend more time on the slopes than on the lifts.
With the size of parks it has, Mayrhofen attracts many freestylers. And with so many freestylers and snowboarders frequenting this resort, after-ski parties are a norm. On the flip side, advanced skiers who don’t want to go crazy on the off-piste can take on the Harakiri, the steepest slope in the resort, with a whopping 78% gradient.
However, this is not a resort for advanced skiers only. Mayrhofen also includes slopes totalling 159 km. Part of this length is sloped for intermediate and beginner skiers as well. And if that is not enough, you can get a Zillertaler Superskipass which has a slope of 530 km.
Nauders
This resort is found in the Tirolean Alps and rides the Austria-Italian border. Its Pistes rise up to 2,800 m above sea level. Since it’s close to the Reschenpass Mountain pass, it receives lots of snow during winter. Its Vast Pistes network has something for everyone; experts, intermediate, and beginner skiers. They are also perfect for families.
Beginners will find the slopes close to the foot of the cable cars are easy to slide down. Slopes at the Nauderix Kinderland are perfect for youngsters and toddlers learning to ski. Some highlights include a kid’s restaurant, snow tunnel bumps runs, an adventure forest, and a small snowpark.
If you are after a powder field, you should choose one of the five off-piste routes.
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
The story of how the Obergurgl village became famous is quite funny. In 1931, a Swiss pilot flew a hot air balloon to a record-breaking 16,000m. However, the pilot later crashed on Gurgler-Ferner. A villager came to his rescue, and Obergurgl has been on the map ever since.
But today, the village is known for its skiing facilities and the short waiting times. The lifts are found right at the door of the hotel, and most of the slopes are perfect for intermediate skiers. But even then, beginners can ski comfortably.
Unfortunately, an advanced skier may feel restricted and limited. There are only 20km of the difficult slope. However, the resort lacks in challenging slopes more than it makes up for with the freeriding terrain. Also, there is an annual freeride event (Open Faces) that brings together skiers worldwide.
Axamer Lizum
This resort is also known as the ‘White Roof.’ The name is in reference to the renowned Golden roof at the centre of town. The Axamer is found 19 km from Innsbruck and is on the Stubai Alps edge. It has a beautiful Alpine setting, and its terrain offers a mix of intermediate, beginner and advanced slopes.
Given that the slopes are located between 1,600m and 2,300m, and that they face north, it receives a lot of snowfall all year long. Most of the trails have a red rating. However, some rated blue. Only one is rated black (for experts).
The freeriding terrain cascades down to the mountain’s base.
You can access it through a shuttle bus from Innsbruck.
Ehrwalder Almbahn
This resort boasts gentle and wide slopes – the kinds that are perfect for beginners and families. However, it still has a lot of slopes for advanced and intermediate skiers.
The Ehrwalder Alm is a small resort between the Wetterstein and Mieming mountains. Most of its slopes are blue, but there are several black and red pistes. Moreover, almost all of its runs sport snowmaking facilities.
Skiing experience for beginners
Aside from the blue-rated slopes, there is a practice area for beginners. This area has ski carousels for kids, and experts are willing and ready to take great care of them. As a parent, you’ll have enough time to cruise down the slopes without worrying about your child’s safety.
Großglockner
One word describes the breathtaking views skiers enjoy from this resort’s slopes. From the mountain's slopes (The highest mountain in Austria), you’ll see in excess of 60 summits. Though it lies on the highest mountain in the land, Großglockner has a small piste network. But on the bright side, this network is diverse and accessible from Kals and Matrei.
The resort is especially popular with children and families. Its facilities include a ski practice area and a number of blue-rated pistes. Additionally, it has a ski school offering kids lessons and courses.
Hochkössen
Fabulous views and great pistes await you in this resort. Although it’s a rather small resort, it offers a lot. This includes a slalom run.
The breathtaking views stretch from the mountain peaks to the lake at the foot of the mountain – Lake Chiemsee. The pistes network is diverse and has something for everyone- beginners and experts alike. However, the families seem to be most drawn to this resort, mainly because it has a team of qualified ski trainers who are willing and happy to ‘babysit’ and help the kids take their first slide down the slopes.
Hochötz
This is yet another resort that is perfect for children and families. But unlike other resorts, Hochoetz goes the extra mile of hiring a local mascot called ‘Widi’. The mascot introduces children to skiing in the practice zones. For older kids, there’s a larger park where they can practice.
Experienced skiers can slide down the permanent race course to Ochsengarten. There are also several off-piste powder trails for the powder hounds.
And since skiing is a serious business and can drain your energy levels, you can replenish them at one of the restaurants or huts.
Hochzeiger
Benni Raich trained here for most of his World Cup races. Imagine that! So this can only mean that the resort has quite a number of challenging runs. But aside from the difficult runs, it also features blue pistes for children and beginners.
The Hochzeiger is located at Pitztal Valley. It is family-friendly and its slopes start from 1,450m to 2,450m. The high altitude means that expert skiers will have excellent snow throughout the season.
Black run 3 is the most famous run in the resort since Benni Rach, a successful World Cup Skier practised on it throughout his career.
Kappl
The resort is located in the Paznauntal Valley. It is family-friendly and has a range of pistes that are perfect for intermediate, beginner and expert skiers. It also features a Children’s area and a fun park. Admittedly, the slope selection is limited in comparison to larger locations. However, this does not rob it of its diversity.
In addition to the various pistes, the resort has 7 km of ski touring routes.
Kühtai
We find this resort 2020m above sea level. It is the highest ski village in all of Austria. Although it might be smaller compared to other resorts in Austria, it has everything you need for a successful ski holiday with the entire family.
Speaking of family, the resort has designated children's parks for ski practice, cosy restaurants, and huts offering children’s meals.
If you want a challenging run, there is a lot of open terrains to take advantage of in the resort. The steepest slopes are under the Dreiseen lift.
With lots of beginner slopes, freeride terrain, superpipe, and airbag, any skier, will be satisfied.
Lermoos - Biberwier
It seems like this list is loaded with family-friendly resorts. Well, what can we do if this is their main selling point? The Lermoos is family-friendly. It has wide slopes to keep cruisers and beginners busy during the day. But on the flip side, Biberwier has a lot to offer at night to keep you entertained.
The view from Grubigstein Mountain is spectacular. Skiers often stop and take in the scenery. It has limited pistes. However, they have blue, red and black pistes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers. Despite its small size, it also has 3 km of touring routes.
What else to do apart from skiing
When you are not skiing, you can go mountain hiking and biking. You could even swim in one of the lakes in Biberwier!
Rangger Köpfl
This ski resort is located 12km west of Innsbruck. It’s one of the resorts Tyrol skiers love to keep to themselves. It rises between 800m and 1,939m above sea level and has lots of wide and sunny runs which make for great riding and skiing.
You can access the ski resort via a shuttle bus from Innsbruck or by car. The slopes are perfect for skiers of all ages and levels. If you’d like to take part in non-ski activities, you can get involved in tobogganing.
It also has night skiing two days a week.
Schlick2000
This is the biggest and most compact resort in Stubai. It’s a favourite for most children, free-riders, and racers as they all find something intriguing and entertaining.
The resort is located only 10 minutes from Innsbruck. It lies 2,140m above sea level and has great snow coverage between November and April. It has 3 black runs pistes that cater to all skiing abilities.
If you are a powder junkie, you’ll fall in love with the resort’s freeride routes, just below the Kreuzjoch ridge.
Rosshütte
This is yet another small resort. But despite its size, it’s the largest in Seefeld. It features pistes that cater to all skiing abilities. Many of the pistes are suitable for beginners and families. Several of them are off-piste routes which lead to summits of surrounding mountains.
Kids and beginners will enjoy the gentle slopes. Freestylers will have a blast at the snowpark which is laden with lots of challenging obstacles to slide, jump and jib. Last but not least, the resort has many snack bars and restaurants on the mountain.
Sillian
Sillian receives a lot of sunshine. It has slopes at high altitudes, a kids’ area and a fun park. Regardless of its small size, the resort offers almost everything large resorts do.
It has a lot of red slopes for intermediate skiers and has 5.6 km and 1.1 km of blue and black rated runs respectively. For the free-riders, there is a 22km off-piste route.
In addition to all the slopes, the resort includes huts and restaurants that serve sumptuous local foods. These are great places to take in the scenery and relax.
Silvapark Galtür
This resort is surrounded by Silvretta Mountains. Most of the mountain peaks are 3,000 high. As such, it is assured of snow throughout winter. The resort has lots of freestylers and family facilities.
It is split into 5 sectors and 12 stations. The Abenteuerland and Zwergerlwelt sectors are perfect for kids’ while the Actionpark is ideal for teenagers practicing their skiing tricks. In the Nordic and High sectors, you’ll find lots of trails for advanced skiers. There are also touring routes in these sectors.
Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau
This resort is packed with facilities that make it a dream destination for families and kids. Speaking of which, many of the resort’s slopes are rated blue and red. However, there are quite a number of freeride routes and black runs. Additionally, it has snowparks to keep snowboarders entertained.
To help cater to families and children, the resort has 5 ski schools, ski kindergartens and many lifts to ease congestion during peak season.
And just in case the snow isn’t enough, the pistes have snowmaking facilities.
SkiStar St. Johann
This resort is close to the famous Kitzbuhel resort. It is packed with a variety of runs, cozy mountain lodges, Terrain Park and 3 lifts.
The resort is popular for the reliable snowfall it receives. It has blue, red, and black slopes measuring 16km, 23km, and 3km respectively, which ensure that everyone is catered to. Additionally, it has ski touring routes, measuring 1km.
In the event you get bored of skiing, you can always go hiking or mountain biking.
Skizirkus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
Saalbach is by far one of the largest and most diverse resorts in Austria. Why? Well, it extends over two regions. Its vast network of pistes stretches over a chain of mountains (and valleys) in the Alps. It is perfect for skiers looking for a variety of pistes. The resort also features a couple of snowparks and floodlit pistes and snow trails.
The slopes close to Fieberbunn are perfect for families. However, in the recent past, it’s become famous for freeriding. But even then, beginners will find lots of pistes in Skicircus. And actually, close to half of all the pistes are categorized as easy.
Last but not least, the resort has many mountain huts and restaurants that serve mouth-watering food.
St. Jakob
If you want a peaceful and quiet holiday skiing, then St. Jakob resort is the place for you. This ski resort is located in the Defereggen Valley. It sits right on the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Instead of Apres Ski music and long lift queues, this ski resort is famous for its beautiful natural landscape even during the high season.
The runs are between 1400 m and 2525 m and are covered with thick snow from November to April. The gentle beginner and children slopes are available. There is also a snow park for freestylers. If you are a speed freak, you’ll fall in love with the race course.
Steinplatte/Waidring
This resort is famous for the reliable snowfall it receives and the great snow conditions that prevail throughout the season. The resort lies on the Tirolean Alps.
It has 14 lifts, 9 of which are in Austria and 4 in Bavaria. The 14 lifts serve 45 km of the slope that rises to 1,860 m.
Most slopes are easy, but there are a couple of black and red slopes for snowboarders and advanced skiers. There is also a large fun park featuring a couple of challenging lines.
Kids will have a blast at the Hausberg Arena and the Triassi-Kinderland.
Wettersteinbahn
Wettersteinbahnen is located on Zugspitze Mountain. It is 1,520m above sea level. It features a wide selection of runs for all skiing abilities. It also has a couple of off-piste ski routes.
For beginners looking to find their skiing legs, the ski school in the resort will hold your hand through the learning process. Freeskiers and snowboarders can practice their insane tricks in the fun trail and the snowpark. If you are a speed freak, you can get your adrenaline rush on the black slopes.
Zugspitze
What this lovely resort lacks in size more than makes up for in scenery and facilities. Though the ski slopes are found on German’s Mountainside, you can access the slopes from Ehrwald. A cable car runs this village to the slopes and only takes 10 minutes.
At 2,720 meters above sea level, the resort is quite snowsure. It has a limited selection of blue and red slopes, but doesn’t have black slopes for expert skiers. When on the slopes, you can take a moment and take in the view, including Munich especially when it’s clear.
Venet
Venet is found above Landeck, a local town, which is home to lots of cultural attractions and museums. The resort is popular for cruisers and families. The resort is 2,212m above the sea level and can be accessed from Zams through a cable car. It has a small but diverse selection of slopes and features funparks that has lots of obstacles to jib, jump, and trick. It also has lots of off-piste slope for ski touring.
To sample some of the local cuisines, you can try the Panorama Restaurant.
See (Paznauntal Valley)
Needless to say, this resort is located in the Paznaun Valley. Here, cruisers and beginners feel at home. Though the resort has slopes ranging from easy to expert, it’s especially dedicated to children and families. The family-friendly approach is evident from the childcare facilities and numerous practice areas.
In comparison to the Ischgl resort (its neighbor), this ski resort is quiet and far less hectic.
During winter, every Tuesday has an entertaining event. The event starts with some night skiing followed by an Ice and Fire Show. There is also a magnificent firework display.
Pertisau
The resort is found close to Achensee Region. The resort not only offers skiing facilities but also a host of outdoor activities and spa treatments in the soothing Alpine environment.
The resort has some exciting and uncrowded terrain suitable for beginners and expert skiers alike. From the slopes, you’ll have a spectacular view of the lake below and the surrounding ranges.
As a beginner, you’ll benefit from ski courses available.
Obertilliach
This resort is found in Lesachtal valley. It prides itself in having snow-sure slopes and spectacular views. Additionally, Obertilliach has a stadium – biathlon stadium. This stadium is the training location for many athletes competing in cross country skiing. The reason holiday seekers and professionals love to flock to this destination is that it has a reliable snowfall.
But besides this, we found this resort to be perfect for families as well. There is a ski school and a kid’s camp equipped with a tunnel, small jumps, and rollers.
The slopes are perfect for beginners and experts alike.
There are also 3km of ski touring pistes.
Nesselwang
This resort is in the Tannheimer Tal Valley, which has beautiful scenery to gaze upon. Even though the resort is quite small, it’s well designed and formed and has a great network of pistes which caters to all – beginners and experts. Boarders and skiers will have a great time on piste 3b and at the natural halfpipe.
We also cannot forget to mention the resort has night skiing once a week.
Hochzillertal-Hochfügen
This resort is easy to get to. But more to this, it’s family friendly and is glamorous.
The resort is located in Zillertal Valley and is only a couple of minutes away from the Inn Valley. While families and beginners love this resort (many took their first snow turns here), free-riders and experts also feel at home on the red and black rated slopes.
And once you’ve used up all your energy on the slopes, you should walk into one of the restaurants and slope side huts for a snack or drink.
Note: 86% of the slopes have snowmaking facilities.
Hoch-Imst
This is a tiny resort that targets families with kids, and that’s the reason why it has lots of family discounts running. But despite that, it also has a lot to offer freestylers, snowboarders and advanced skiers.
The resort includes a fun park loaded with 15 obstacles. It is perfect for intermediate and pro skiers. For kids, there are wide and gentle slopes close to the cable car. The resort also has ski lessons to help children take their first snow slides.
Hahnenkamm (Reutte)
This resort is on Hahnenkamm Mountain close to Reutte (a town in Austria). It has snowsure slopes that rise to 1900m above sea level. It features pistes for all skiing abilities and sports a beginner’s area complete with a lift for the kids. Teenagers can practice their tricks in the fun park.
And finally, you’ll love the restaurant on the mountain which serves Austrian delicacies with a great view of the valley below.
Glungezer
This is a perfect resort for just about anyone. It has a little bit of everything to cater for the beginners, intermediate and expert skiers as well as families. Its main highlight is the 15km descent into the valley.
The resort has a park (Glungezer Park) that is divided into separate areas for freeskiers and snowboarders.
The season here ends in the beginning of April.
Christlum (Achenkirch)
This resort is located on the north side of Lake Achensee. It’s also on the Karwendel Mountain. It is popular with families, but its terrain also accommodates snowboarders and skiers. The resort has everything large ski resorts has but in a more compact and relaxed setting.
It is just 45 minutes from Innsbruck and about 60 minutes away from Munich. The resort has a practice area for children and a ski resort at the top. The slopes range from blue, red and black. Expert skiers can, however, get their hearts thumping by exploring the turning and twisting Nordabfahrt descent which gives quite a kick.
Bergeralm
This is yet another resort offering the best of both worlds– family friendly and expert skiing facilities. The resort is proof that good things come in tiny packages. It’s also worth pointing out that the resort has a fantastic view of the valley.
The slopes are split into three- blue, red and black, and measure 6km, 16km, and 7km respectively.
Berwang
This resort is located between Lechtal Valley and Zugspitze Mountain. You can access the resort from either side. Many of its pistes are beginner level, which makes it perfect for families and beginners.
Moreover, the resort has a ski school equipped with a learning area. There is a longer beginner slope than there are intermediate and expert level slopes.
Fügen
You can get out of this resort and go straight to the slopes. The slopes here are charming and perfect for families and cruisers. There are also programs for kids and multiple lifts.
If you are a pro on the slopes, you could ski down the longest descent on the resort. The descent is laden with lots of snowmaking facilities to ensure a thick and soft snow layer.
Everything you need to know about skiing in Tyrol
Now that you know how we’ll rank the ski destinations in Tyrol, its time to learn a little more about a Tyrol ski vacation, how to get there and what you should expect.
How to get to Innsbruck
Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol. As such, it’s well connected and easy to get to. The Innsbruck airport is about 5km from the city. Moreover, there is an intricate network of rail and road which provide easy access to the city and surrounding destinations – in our case the ski resorts close to Innsbruck.
By air
The nearest airports to Innsbruck include;
- Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport- 5km away (15 minutes)
- Bolzano airport –128 km away (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Salzburg Airport – 178 km away (1 hour 50 minutes)
- Munich Airport – 202 km away (2 hours)
Even though Innsbruck Kranebitten is the first choice for everyone, its capacity is limited. This means that you need to book your flight early to get a great price and the best flight time. For those who want to see a bit of the country, Munich Airport is a great choice. You’ll have 2 hours of travel to Innsbruck.
To avoid lots of stopovers and flight changes, here’s a list of airlines that fly directly to Innsbruck:
Direct from the U.K
- British Airways
- EasyJet
- TUI
Other locations
- Lufthansa
- Austrian Airlines
- KLM
By land
If you don’t have to cross a water body, you can access Innsbruck by land. Here is how.
By bus
The FlixBus Company has numerous comfortable long-distance buses traveling to Innsbruck from different locations in Europe. The buses operate during the day and follow specified routes. FlixBus is perfect for traveling from Munich Airport into Innsbruck. Additionally, you can use it to explore Italy and South Tyrol.
By train
Arriving into Innsbruck by train is comfortable, relaxing and safe. The intricate rail connection and the attractive rates make train travel ideal for those looking to take in the beauty of the country on their way to Innsbruck. Numerous capitals in Europe are connected to Innsbruck via train.
How to get around once you are there
You can choose to use public transportation or hire a car/motorcycle. Innsbruck public transportation includes trams and buses. The buses will get you around pretty fast and cheaply. Trams, on the other hand, are designed for tourists. Their lines run past major city attractions.
The bus system in the city has about 20 buses which serve all areas in Innsbruck and its environs. The bus system is catered to by InnBus, and the information about the routes is available on their official website. You’ll pay a standard fare when traveling within the city limits, which doesn’t exceed €2. This zone is referred to as the ‘Kernzone’.
There’s also the option of getting 24 hour passes. You can get the passes and tickets from local vending machines located at tobacco stores, government offices, convenient stores, newspaper kiosks, tourist offices, transfer terminals, and stations.
You can also get single trip tickets directly from the tram or bus.
If you have a car or motorcycle, getting around is easier and convenient. However, you should note that most locations in Central Innsbruck sports have restricted parking. These parking spaces are highlighted by a blue line, and you can only park for a maximum of one and a half hours. At times, the parking time can be extended to 3 hours. If you opt for parking garages, you’ll need about €2.50 an hour or €17 per day.
Where to stay in Innsbruck
Innsbruck is full of accommodation options. You can choose to stay in a holiday apartment or a hotel with a bed and breakfast. There are also options to camp or stay at the resort. Your choice will be determined by your budget, the location of the hotel and the amenities offered.
Some of the hotels include Altstadthotel Weisses Kreuz, and Hotel Ibis Innsbruck.
Here’s a list based on accommodation cost
Budget Hotels
- Hostel Marmota
- Hotel Alpinpark
- Alphotel Innsbruck
- Hotel Maximilian
- Hotel Appartement Nahe Olympiaworld
Mid-Range hotels
- Hotel Sailer
- Hotel Bierwirt
VIP Treatment
- The Penz
- Hotel Grauer Bar
- Adlers Hotel Innsbruck
- Grand Hotel Europa
Best ski passes for ski resorts near Innsbruck
To get value for your money, you should get a multi-resort ski pass ticket. These tickets will save you some big bucks and offer options for fantastic resorts and slopes. You’ll also have the convenience of using up your days consecutively.
1. Snow Card
This ski pass is for a die-hard skier – one who wants to slide down the Tyrol mountain tops. It grants you access to 90 mountain lift companies, including 5 glacier resorts. This card will give you the best riding, skiing, and value for your money on the slopes. You will have more than 3,000 km of runs and trails, 1,100 ski lifts, great snow conditions, and beautiful alpine scenery.
The pass is €797 for adults and €637 for teens, €399 for kids and €637 for disabled persons. It’s free for kids less than 5 years.
The pass is valid until the 15th of May 2019
2. White 5
You can ski on all 5 Tyrol glaciers with this card. The glaciers include Pitztal glacier, Stubai Glacier, Hintertux Glacier, Kaunertal Glacier, and Solden-Otzal Glacier. The Hintertux Glacier hosts the only summer skiing experience.
It costs €410 and offers 10 days of skiing. You can also ride at any of the ski resorts. The pass is valid until 15th of May 2019
3. Silvretta Ski Pass
This ski pass will have you combine the adrenaline-filled action the Paznaun Valley can offer. It grants you access to 350 km long trails, 73 gondolas and ski lifts of see, kappl, Galtur, and Ischgl-Samnaun. It also offers you free rides on the valley ski buses and on the public buses that service the region between Wirl and Landeck.
The pass is available for 2 – 14 days. For a 2-day adult ski pass, you pay €108.50 and €62 for kids. This pass is valid until 1st May 2019.
4. Ski 6
With this, you’ll be able to explore 6 of the most popular destinations at a discount. The pass covers Venet, Nauders-Bergkastel, Fendels, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis and Kaunertal Glacier. It offers 350 km of trail and is served with more than 70 ski lifts.
The passes are available from between 4 and 14 day passes. 4-day adult ski passes are worth €189 and children ski passes €112 during the offseason. When it’s peak season, the prices change to €208.50 and €122 for kids.
The pass is valid until 23rd of April 2021
Best time to go
The skiing season begins in December and ends in Late March.
• High season
The high season is between 25th of December to 2nd January. However, February is usually quite busy as well courtesy of university and school vacations.
• Low Season
The low season is usually the beginning of December and late March. This is the time when it’s usually less crowded.
Ski resorts & entertainment near Innsbruck
Tyrol has a great nightlife. Instead of getting cooped up in your hotel room, you can go out and have a good time with friends or make new ones. Tyrol has lots of pubs and bars. You could try out the apres ski bars, which are quite popular during the winter.
If you are not a party animal, you could go see a movie in the cinema or go to the theatre and enjoy some dance performances
Food
It is said that the way to a man’s heart is through their stomach. Well, the same is true for women as well. And the good thing is that Tyrol is not only rich in ski destinations, but it also has some of the greatest foods that you can try out when you are not on the slopes.
The must-try foods include;
Tiroler Speckknodel – this is a staple food in Tyrol. It is basically bread dumplings, boiled and rounded with bacon. It is enjoyed with sauerkraut alongside a salad or broth
Tiroler Grostl – this tastes as good as it looks. It is a potato, onion and bacon fry up, and is served with a fried egg. Tiroler Grostl makes for a great mountain lunch
Kaspressknodel – this has been a favorite Tyrol food for ages. They are simply flatbreads studded with mountain cheese. They are cooked until they turn golden brown, and served with green salad
Kasspatzln – this is a variation of soft egg noodle mixed with some grated cheese. It is oven baked and adorned with some onions.
Kiachl – Kiachl is a traditional dough pastry that is fried in hot lard. You can have it with cranberry, jam or sauerkraut.
Drinks
To wash down those foods, you can try the following drinks:
Gin and Tonic – this is a custom-made drink that is commonly served at the Kater Noster. It contains pepper, tonic, pink grapefruit, lemongrass and Star of Bombay Gin.
Vanilla Cinnamon Iced Coffee – this drink has a perfect amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for when you are chilling outdoors
Herbal Highball – this is a dry gin with lemongrass, Schweppes Ginger Ale, ginger, and lavender vinegar
Fenitmas – this is a curiosity coke
Eizbach Crystal Coke – this is a transparent coke from Munich, Germany
Events & festivals in Tyrol and near Innsbruck
Aside from skiing, you can also attend some fun festivals and events, including;
Snow Festival
The Snow Festival happens every year in February. The locals gather at the Market Square and participate in different sports. The Square is divided into Safety, Science, and Try Outs.
Fasnacht
The Fasnacht is held after four years. It’s a traditional Tyrol event which is used to show the common struggle between evil and good. The locals wear masks and dance together as they parade the streets in costumes
Osterfestival Tyrol
This is held every year between mid-March and early April. The festival has lots of choirs and concerts in different venues, including churches in Innsbruck.
Hahnenkamm Races
This is an Alpine World Cup that happens every January in Kitzbuhel- a town located 30 minutes from Innsbruck. The ski race is quite technical and demanding. In fact, most people vouch for its difficulty. It’s a fun event to watch.
Wrapping up
There you go. We hope this list has proven to be of great help and you are now more confident and sure of the type of resort you want and need.
But remember, though the list makes it easier to get a resort, the resort you choose ultimately boils down to your preferences and circumstances.
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