The Largest Ski Resorts in Austria: Best Picks for 2026

Planning your next ski trip? Austria continues to shine as one of Europe’s top destinations for winter sports. From legendary après-ski parties to family-friendly villages and beginner-friendly slopes, the best ski resorts in Austria 2026 promise something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll break down the largest ski resorts in Austria, showing you which are best for families, beginners, advanced skiers, and party seekers. Stick around for a bonus resort that combines two ski areas under one lift pass — perfect for maximizing value on your next trip.

4. Ischgl – Best for Advanced Skiers & Après Ski Fans

With 239 km of slopes and 52 lifts, Ischgl is a paradise for intermediate and advanced skiers who love to party.

• Beginners: Just 47 km of blue runs, making it less suitable for those looking for the best beginner ski resorts in Europe.

• Intermediate Skiers: The highlight here is 140 km of red runs, the most of any resort on this list. Don’t miss the Smugglers Run, a historic trail between Austria and Switzerland.

• Experts: 52 km of black runs deliver serious challenges.

• Après Ski: Famous spots like Trofana Alm, Kuhstall, and Schatzi Bar make Ischgl the nightlife capital of the Alps.

👉 If your group wants advanced skiing by day and legendary après-ski by night, Ischgl is unbeatable.

3. Saalbach Hinterglemm – Best for Mixed Groups

Part of the Ski Circus region, Saalbach Hinterglemm offers 270 km of slopes and 70+ lifts — ideal for varied groups.

• Beginners: With 140 km of blue runs, it’s one of the best beginner ski resorts in Europe, perfect for new or nervous skiers.

• Intermediate Skiing: 112 km of reds offer plenty of fun.

• Experts: Just 18 km of blacks, so thrill-seekers may prefer other resorts.

• Circuits: Try the Skicircus Challenge, a 65 km full-day circuit.

• Après Ski: Saalbach is lively, while Hinterglemm offers a more relaxed vibe.

👉 A top choice for family ski holidays in Austria where different ability levels need to be catered for.

2. SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Best for Families

At 275 km of pistes and 81 lifts, SkiWelt is one of Austria’s largest and most affordable ski areas — a hidden gem.

• Beginner Skiing: 145 km of blue runs and excellent ski schools, especially in Ellmau, make this resort perfect for family ski holidays Austria.

• Intermediate Runs: 127 km of reds like the scenic Hartkaiser run.

• Experts: 39 km of blacks, including the challenging Black Eagle.

• Villages: Eight charming bases to choose from. Ellmau is family-focused, Söll is lively, and Scheffau offers peace and quiet.

👉 Families love SkiWelt for its balance of variety, charm, and affordability.

1. Ski Arlberg – The Ultimate All-Rounder

The largest ski resort in Austria and one of the best ski resorts in Austria 2026, Ski Arlberg boasts 299 km of slopes, 85 lifts, and legendary freeride terrain.

• Beginners: 130 km of blue runs — great for learners.

• Intermediate Skiers: 120 km of reds keep things exciting.

• Experts: 49 km of blacks plus 200 km of off-piste terrain make it a freeride paradise.

• Après Ski: Don’t miss Mooserwirt, Krazy Kanguruh, or Base Camp in St. Anton. Lech and Zürs provide more refined alternatives.

👉 Ski Arlberg is the complete package — suitable for all levels and one of the best ski resorts in Europe.

Bonus: Obergurgl + Sölden

While technically two resorts, Obergurgl and Sölden can be skied on a single lift pass.

• Terrain: 132 km of blue runs, 73 km of reds, and 48 km of blacks.

• Altitude: Obergurgl sits at 1,930 m with lifts reaching 3,082 m, ensuring reliable snow.

• Atmosphere: Obergurgl is small, traditional, and family-friendly, while Sölden adds more nightlife.

👉 A fantastic high-altitude option with a long season and plenty of variety.

Whether you’re planning your first ski trip or looking for expert terrain, these destinations rank among the best ski resorts in Austria 2026 and should be on every skier’s bucket list.