When it comes to skiing, it’s clear to see why France holds the crown thanks to magnificent Alpine and Pyrenees scenery, well-appointed resorts and reliable snowfall levels each season. Austria remains the runner-up as it is the second most popular European ski destination after France, perhaps because most Austrian resorts are located at mid-altitude and snowfall can be unreliable compared to resorts in France.
However, France still has a fight on its hands as its closest competitor has heavily invested in snow-making facilities in recent years to offer its guests thickly covered pistes that just beg for people to ski on. Meanwhile, there are plenty of picturesque catered ski chalets in Austria to retire to after an adrenalin-pumping day on the slopes. These are just a couple of reasons why ski resorts in Austria deserve your attention and a better reputation.
Compared to France, there are fewer resorts to choose from but Austrian ski resorts in Austria offer different slopes and altitude levels that are perfect for beginners but still offer plenty to test expert skiers and snowboarders. St Anton is a large ski area and offers challenging off-piste skiing as well as opportunities to ski cross-country. Lech in Vorarlberg is an ideal choice for those looking for luxury accommodation and skiing in exclusive surroundings and thanks to its high slopes Lech benefits from reliable snowfall during the ski season.
Tasting local specialty food is another important part of any ski trip. While French cuisine is rightly famed for its delicacy and finesse, the Austrian catered ski chalets serve their own hearty, traditional dishes such as Tiroler Gröstl, goulash and sauerkraut that will keep you going the whole day long.
In contrast to France where resorts are located in the mountain, Austrian ski resorts are usually found nestled around towns and villages. While maintaining a traditional atmosphere, Austrian ski resorts are friendly and welcoming. Visitors can learn about the rich culture and history of the towns and enjoy the summer festivals celebrated by the locals.
Lech is a particularly beautiful and traditional village that offers luxury accommodation for the rich, famous and royal. Chalet Überhaus is a fully catered chalet with a spacious master suite, two family suites and two double bedrooms for ten adults and six children.
Most Austrian ski resorts also have excellent transportation links to towns, cities and other ski areas. Many skiers use Salzburg as a base to access other ski resorts such as Innsbruck, Linz and Graz. Furthermore, the instructors in the Austrian skiing schools speak fluent English and are well-known for good ski instruction, making them very popular with regular visitors and newcomers alike.
France has an outstanding reputation for excellence when it comes to providing a ski holiday. However, if you’re looking to indulge a passion for winter sports, in particular for skiing, the slopes of Austria are also a more than viable alternative for your European winter getaway this year.