Spotlight on Austria – all-ability ski in a winter wonderland
In the majestic heart of the Austrian Alps, the enchanting winter wonderland of Austria awaits school groups seeking an alpine adventure like no other. But with so many exceptional resorts to choose from, we know it can be tricky narrowing down which one is the best suited to your group.
In this blog, we explore Austria’s vast snowy landscape and the ski resorts that reside there, uncovering why Austria's mountain resorts not only meet but often surpass the highest standards in value and service. We’ll also reveal the best parts of each destination – making your choice for a school ski destination that much easier.
If you like the idea of storybook villages and world-class amenities, you’re in the right place. Read on to discover the very best of Austria ski.
What sets skiing in Austria apart from anywhere else in Europe/North America?
Unparalleled infrastructure
Offering perfectly groomed pistes for all ages and skill levels, top-of-the-range snow-making facilities, and state-of-the-art lift and cable car installations, Austria is a winter sports haven. The country consistently invests millions of euros each year to improve and upgrade its impressive lift and gondola network –– all while retaining a focus on sustainability.
Idyllic alpine villages & scenery
The quintessential Austrian ski resort is a charming village nestled in the mountain valley. Offering tree-lined runs through 'winter wonderland' landscapes, students visiting Austrian resorts will experience an idyllic ski adventure.
Reliable snowfall
Austria's Alps boast a long and lavish snow season, making it one of the world's best snow-sure skiing destinations. The snow on the ground remains powdery and fluffy well into spring, with resorts like Zell am See-Kaprun providing skiing from October to late May thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
World-class, flexible ski schools
In Austria, ski schools cater to all levels and offer long ski days, with approximately 18,000 ski instructors from around the globe and flexibility to fit your schedule. Austrian instructor training is considered the world's leading, with extensive training days and higher qualifications than any other country.
Great value for money
Known for its value-for-money stakes, Austria offers affordability in lift passes, ski schools, dining, and entertainment compared to most popular ski destinations. It's here in Austria's ski regions, where school groups are most likely to discover the best deals.
Ski resorts in Austria
School ski trips to Amadé
Set in the beautiful Austrian Alps, Amadé is a huge ski expanse made up of 29 resorts, bringing guaranteed snow and a host of local ski instructors to give expert guidance for your students. Our groups rate the huge Salzburger Sportwelt resort as the best ski area for schools, with our hotels giving easy access to the slopes. Wherever you choose to base yourselves, there’s plenty to look forward to in the evenings too – from quizzes and ice-skating to slides and whirlpools in the two local waterparks.
School ski trips to Kitzbühel
One of Europe’s gold-standard ski resorts, the Austrian town of Kitzbühel offers an excellent adventure playground for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the whole ski season. More than 125 years of skiing history make Kitzbühel a remarkable choice for ski groups, while its upscale town centre offers exceptional shops, restaurants, and activities off the slopes.
School ski trips to Lungau
Enjoy direct access to 150km of skiing at Lungau, one of Austria’s quietest yet most snow sure resorts. With its mixed terrain and wide, open pistes, this resort is ideal for skiers of all abilities; beginners will have enough space to gain confidence, while intermediates can enjoy a few challenges between Katschberg-Aineck and Fanningberg. From the first day, your group will enjoy stunning views into the valley, while the traditional and picturesque villages of St Michael and Tamsweg bring plenty of bonding activities by evening.
School ski trips to Nassfeld
A little-known gem on the Italian border, Nassfeld has a long list of credentials: the largest resort in Carinthia province, the Alps' longest cable car (the Millennium Express), and its north-facing, high altitude slopes – meaning superb snow coverage throughout the season. The resort enjoys a reputation as one of the largest, most attractive and snowy ski areas in Austria, yet it is still remarkably quiet – allowing your students plenty of space and time to perfect their technique.
School ski trips to Obertauern
Give your students a taste of the high Alps by bringing them to Obertauern – one of the highest ski resorts in Austria. Easy piste access makes mornings run smoothly, while the views across the Tauern Mountains are simply stunning. Obertauern may be a purpose-built resort, but still retains a delightful traditional Austrian charm. What’s more, the resort prides itself on being the most snow-sure in Austria, often staying open from November all the way through to early May.
School ski trips to Schladming
Host to the 2013 World Cup, Schladming’s ski facilities are exactly as you’d expect – world-class, top-notch snowmaking, perfectly groomed trails, and encouraging instructors. A brilliant system of chairs and gondolas whisk you around its incredible 230-kilometre ski area, while the town of Schladming makes for a great base for your group, with Austrian skittles and ski shows available long after your day on the slopes is over.
School ski trips to St Johann in Tirol
Give your students an opportunity to experience authentic Austrian culture when they ski in this historic market town. Tucked below the Kitzbüheler Horn and Wilder Kaiser mountains, the relaxed and welcoming vibe at St Johann in Tirol is a perfect fit for school groups, with shops and facilities a short walk or easy bus ride from the slopes.
School ski trips to Zell am See
Set beside a magical frozen lake and surrounded by frosted peaks, this historic town is rated highly by our school groups for its stunning location and spectacular ski terrain. The skiing is split across three mountains, with quality snow cover all season long and access to high altitude snowfields on the glacier at Kaprun. Our groups love the buzz of the 13th-century town centre, where you can enjoy several energetic activities after a day on the slopes. Worn out? No problem – we’ll take you to the local ‘Konditorei’ for hot chocolate and cakes.
Ready to book your school ski trip to Austria?
Wherever you opt for your school ski trip in Austria, you can rest assured that you’ve made an excellent choice. From the incredible glacier of Kaprun to the stunning market towns of St Johann in Tirol, each resort is another feather in the cap of Austria’s ski prowess, promising a memorable time on the slopes.
To find out more about our school ski trips to Austria, or enquire about booking a trip to a specific resort, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school ski experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
