Luxury Ski Resorts in Austria

Austria is home to some of the most charming and luxurious ski resorts in Europe. Each ski resort retains its true Alpine character and has an extremely welcoming atmosphere. Over the years Austria has become more sophisticated and glitzier. Many celebrities and even some royals flock to resorts across the country to get their ski fix.

The ski resorts in the Austrian Alps boast exceptional history, medieval architecture, decadent luxury ski hotels, and famous filming locations (have you ever seen the James Bond film, Spectre?!). Enjoy snow-sure skiing, beautiful scenery, and lively après in the incredible settings. Plus, they have excellent options for relaxing pools, thermal baths, and revitalising saunas. Experience true luxury with the huge array of world-class hotels here. Here is our top pick of luxury ski resorts in Austria.

Lech, Austria

Once a farming village, Lech has risen to become one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world. The profile of the ski resort was raised significantly when Princess Diana visited alongside other royal family members. Lech Village has grown in the past few decades with the addition of stylish, luxury ski hotels and chalets. Keeping in with its truly Austrian Alpine roots, there are several gourmet restaurants in the town serving superb traditional fayre.

Ischgl, Austria

Ischgl is an excellent ski resort for both week-long skiing and weekend breaks. The village is just 90 minutes from Innsbruck Airport, allowing for a smooth transition from plane to slopes. The village itself is traffic-free, which adds to the calm, peaceful atmosphere. To avoid getting cold and wet from the snow, there’s an underground walkway in the centre of town to the Fimba gondola.

Ischgl has a great reputation for its après ski scene and superb skiing. There is no shortage of lively bars, delicious restaurants, and beautiful boutiques.

Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is in the heart of Austria’s Tyrol region and is not short of historic charm. The ski resort was once a silver mining town and has impressive Gothic architecture contributing to its medieval character. The cobbled centre is car-free, giving visitors plenty of space to explore the main streets that are lined with luxurious shops, restaurants, and bars. The old town in the evening is especially enchanting, creating a fairly-tale-like feel.

Kitzbühel ski resort is one of the largest in Austria and has an excellent lift system. The high-speed, modern lifts will take you from A to B in no time. Plus, with the bubble covers, you’ll be kept dry and warm. Advanced skiers will appreciate the immaculately groomed pistes and snow-sure conditions. For the ski racing fanatics, Kitzbühel is world-famous for being the home of the classic Hahnenkamm Downhill course. The prestigious FIS Alpine Ski World Cup race has been held here annually for almost a century. If you are lucky to visit during this period, it will be a sight to behold.

Zürs, Austria

Zürs is an excellent luxury ski resort in Austria, with a great range of four- and five-star accommodations. The hugely popular ski resort is frequented by the rich and famous during the winter season. It is considered the exclusive sister village of Lech, and is just ten minutes away from St. Anton.

Zürs has the perfect combination of fantastic skiing, high-end hotels, and sophisticated nightlife. The ski area amounts to more than 300km of piste, with an altitude reaching almost 2,500m. For the thrill-seekers, take the trip of a lifetime and experience the exclusive adventure of heli-skiing.

St. Anton, Austria

St. Anton is one of the most iconic and luxury ski resorts in Austria. It is also one of the oldest in the Alps, bursting with stylish accommodations, luxurious restaurants, and world-class bars. St. Anton lies deep in the Arlberg ski area, with direct access to neighbouring St. Christoph, Zürs, and Oberlech. The ski resort is a backcountry skier’s dream. There are excellent off-piste opportunities in all directions, and heli-skiing is even available.

If you are looking for the wow factor, you are sure to find something to fit the bill here. The village has more than a few luxury properties in its repertoire, perfect for both families and groups. St. Anton is arguably the spiritual home of après, with legendary bars The MooserWirt and The Krazy Kanguruh putting the ski resort on the map. Once you have finished carving up the slopes, treat yourself to a well-earned tipple or two at one of the mountain bars.

Sölden, Austria

Sölden is home to some of the most impressive snow-sure conditions in the Alps. The ski resort has an excellent snow record and is home to two glaciers. It also retains an extensive network of slopes and a world-class lift system, connecting 144km of piste. Three mountains reach heights of more than 3,000m, ensuring epic views of the remarkable scenery.

At the top of the Gaisalachkogl Mountain, you can even find a James Bond installation – where the filming of Spectre took place. Marvel at the Ötztal Valley, visit the gourmet restaurant, or descend from the incredible peak in this breathtaking setting.

Zell am See, Austria

Zell am See is said to be one of the most picturesque resorts in the Swiss Alps. From icy lakes to snow kissed forests and impressive peaks blanketed in snow, this resort is a dream for lovers of natural beauty. Courtesy of its impressive lift system, skiers have access to more than 400km of slopes as well as some fantastic off-piste areas to explore.

The resort’s pretty centre maintains an undeniable sense of Alpine charm, with a history dating back to the 13th century. The pedestrianised town is a hive of activity, with a great choice of restaurants, bars and shops for visitors to enjoy when they’re not skiing. The selection of luxury hotels adds a touch of indulgence to the resort, perfectly blending tradition with modern luxury.

Mayrhofen, Austria

Mayrhofen is a beautiful resort lined with classic wooden buildings and a fantastic selection of luxury ski hotels. The five-star stays in this resort are completely lavish, with glorious spa facilities, award-winning restaurants and beautiful interiors. The best part? Most ski hotels in Mayrhofen are easily accessible from the slopes, so you can be first in line when the lifts begin to turn and return to your luxury accommodation with ease.

Being one of the largest interlinked resorts in the Tyrol ski area, Mayrhofen offers something for everybody. Whether you are after perfectly groomed pistes, cross-country adventures or exciting winter activities, you can do it all in Mayrhofen.

To find out more about the best luxury ski resorts in Austria, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.