Modern lifts, an excellent snowmaking system, and miles of perfectly groomed beginner-friendly pistes make the classic Austrian resort of Saalbach a super popular choice for families and the party crowd.
The resort gives access to a massive linked area known as the ski-circus, which is Austria’s second largest ski area. That’s 270km of pistes around the resorts of Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Fieberbrunn, and the summer-time mountain-biking playground of Leogang.
Just 10 percent of the slopes are graded black – the rest are in the intermediate and easy range. There’s also a gondola to nearby Zell am See which gives access to even more skiing, just make sure you’re back in time to enjoy some of Saalbach’s legendary après.
When skiing in Austria, it’s important to consider whether you’re a glühwein kind of person or you’re more of a ‘Jäger bomb’ fan. The country’s signature hot mulled red wine is more usually drunk around Christmas and January, around the festive Christmas markets. If that’s your vibe, go then. The skiing at that time can be amazing. The days aren’t too long which means you really get the most out of them.
Later in the season, the days get longer – and so do the nights. March and April is when the après really kicks off and with skiing up to 2,100m there’s always reliable snow.
Things to do in Saalbach
One of the joys of skiing in Austria is the traditional mountain hut, which is alive and well, serving such delicacies as curried sausage, Kasnock’n, a kind of cheesy pasta-like dumplings, and the legendary Kaiserschmarrn – sweet pancake. There are over 60 huts in the area.
When you’re done skiing, eating, and partying, there’s tobogganing, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice-skating and winter hiking. Saunas are also an Austrian tradition and you’ll find one in most hotels.
Hotels & Apartments in Saalbach
Our top recommended hotels and apartments. To find the perfect one for you, speak to one of our specialists