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Sponsored by Tourismusverband Obertauern
When you think about the most iconic countries in the world for winter sports, Austria is probably one of the first places that comes to mind. After all, it’s often considered the birthplace of alpine skiing and has hosted two Winter Olympics. But while many people flock to the country’s larger destination ski resorts, don’t miss out on Obertauern, the snowiest winter sports destination in Austria. Let us show you how to experience the best of Obertauern in the winter.
Skiing in Obertauern
Located at an altitude of 5,348 to 7,589 feet, and boasting an average maximum snow depth of 104 inches (264 centimeters), Obertauern is the snowiest winter sports destination in Austria. While fresh snow is a nice to have in many ski destinations around the world, it’s the heart of the ski experience in Obertauern, which enjoys a long ski season that runs from November until the beginning of May. Obertauern Ski Resort has an expansive 62 miles (100 kilometers) of groomed slopes and 26 lifts, offering tons of terrain for beginners, intermediates, and experts alike.
Among the headlining features of the resort is the “Tauernrunde,” aka the Tauern Circuit. The unique round shape of the resort means that skiers and riders can ski from one lift to the next without having to use the same lift or ski the same run twice. The Tauernrunde is available in two routes, the clockwise Red Route and the counterclockwise Green Route. There’s also a child-friendly Bobby Route.
Expert and advanced skiers and riders can take on the Obertauern Super Seven. The seven surrounding peaks of the ski area promise long, steep, challenging runs, paired with stunning panoramic views. It’s the perfect challenge for those who like to rack up mileage and vertical drop.
Ski-In, Ski-Out at Obertauern
One of the things that makes Obertauern so extraordinary is the ski-in, ski-out access. An exceptional number of upscale hotels, chalets, and vacation rentals that are directly on the slopes, or close by, make it easy for skiers and riders to ski right up to their accommodations. This means that once arriving, travelers don’t even need a car—those who do bring one can park it upon arrival and easily access the slopes, village, restaurants, and nearby activities by foot or free shuttle.
What to Do Off the Slopes
Off the slopes, Obertauern is teeming with fun adventures. For those who like a slower pace, Obertauern is home to a cross-country ski school and 43 miles (70 kilometers) of trails for cross-country skiing. Its most unique offering, especially for fans of the Winter Olympics, is the laser biathlon at the Gnadenalm, which is open to people of all ages. Other unique winter activities include skibiking, snowkiting, snowbiking, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and tobogganing under the floodlit lights of the Gnadenalm on a 1-mile run (1.5 kilometers) that guests access by snowmobile ride. Obertauern boasts the kind of extraordinary winter adventures that you won’t just find in any ski destination.
Après-Ski
Nowhere does après-ski like Europe, and Obertauern is no exception. It’s home to everything from lively slopeside huts to sun-soaked patios to cozy pubs to rooftop hotel bars and more. Edelweissalm, perched at 6,000 feet high in the heart of the slopes, is one of Obertauern’s liveliest and most popular après-ski destinations. Grab a drink and take in the stunning panoramic views, high-energy atmosphere, music, and dancing that makes this a hotspot. For something a little more relaxed, enjoy the Lounge Bar or Rooftop Bar at the Places by Valamar hotel.
Getting There
Getting to Obertauern is easier than many people think. Obertauern is just over an hour from Salzburg Airport by car, while Salzburg Airport also has shuttle connections to Obertauern. Munich is approximately three hours away and Vienna is four hours away. The Radstadt train station is just 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Obertauern. Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to get around the compact village on foot or on the free village shuttle bus. Start planning your trip on obertauern.com.
September 17, 2026
