10 Reasons to Go Skiing & Snowboarding in Austria

By Sarah Hemsley

Last updated: 10th February 2026

I’ve just come back from the little town of Hopfgarten in the Kitzbühel Alps, and had the best time learning to snowboard. Believe me, if you’ve ever thought about learning for yourself, then this is the place to go. Here are 10 reasons why you should join our 1 or 2-week Austria Ski trip, especially if you’re a beginner or first timer.

TRIP

Austria Ski

View Dates & Prices

1. For… Window Seat Views ✈️

If you decide to fly to Innsbruck airport, make sure to get a window seat! The airport is nestled between the mountains, so as you prepare for landing, you’ll spot giant snowy peaks out the window. Get your camera ready!

2. For… the Skiing & Snowboarding 🎿

The SkiWelt lift pass unlocks access to 275km of snowy pistes, so it’s perfect if you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time, as you’ll never run out of slopes!

I’ve skied before, so I decided it was time to take on snowboarding. It was our instructor’s first-ever snowboard lesson, and by the end of just two sessions, we were linking turns (we may have fallen over a few times!)

Whilst others took on their first ski lesson and learnt to get comfortable on the slopes, the more experienced pros headed off to ski every run they could find, and there were plenty.

3. For…. Apres Ski  🍺

Apres Ski translates to ‘after ski’. Sometimes all you want to do is sit and enjoy a Bailey's hot chocolate at the top of the mountain (one of my favourite ski moments), and other times you’re ready for a party. Well, Austria does both! Head to the bar at Rundell’s (at the bottom Gondola Station) and ask for the ‘Special Hot Shot’ to get your Apres Ski experience started.

4. For… Chalet Vibes 🎉

On Austria Ski, we stayed at a sociable chalet with tonnes of friendly skiers and snowboarders ready for a good time. There’s a bus that conveniently runs every half hour to the gondola station, where your boots and skis are stored too!

And oh, does this chalet know how to party. With a Schnapps bar offering 19 flavours of schnapps, you’re in for a treat, especially during happy hour! Expect big tunes, cheesy hits and the German song Helkopter 117 on repeat - it’s basically the chalet anthem. 

Prefer something more chill? The chalet also has a game room with endless board games and cosy nooks for chilling out or getting to know your new mates.

5. For… Learning German 💬

The official language in Austria is German, and although they speak great English in Hoftgarten, it’s always fun to learn the local language. Here are some common phrases you can use when you go to the mountains: Hallo (hello), guten tag (good day), danke (thank you), and bitte (please).

6. For… Mountain Views 🤩

Jump on a gondola to Hohe Salve, aka the top of the mountain! Sitting at 1829m, you really do feel like you're on top of the world, and the views of the Kitzbühel Alps are jaw-dropping. 

There’s even a revolving restaurant at the top so you can satisfy your worked-up appetite and enjoy the views at the same time. Plus, if you’re a pro skier or boarder, I’ve heard the red runs from the top are pretty good!

7. For… Paragliding 🤩

Speaking of mountain views… the best way to see them is by paragliding off the mountain and soaring over the snowy pistes. On Austria Ski, you can add this activity to your itinerary for a thrilling experience. Those who decided to do it said they absolutely loved it!

8. For… Your Inner Foodie 🌭

After burning off all that energy, you’re gonna need some fuel! And Austrian cuisine does not disappoint. I never knew Austrian food was this good, but after having some of the most incredible meals I’ve had in the mountains, I can confirm it’s delicious! Just think chicken schnitzel, bratwurst sausages, knödel (Austrian dumplings, as seen above), apple strudel, and more. Hungry yet? Hopfgarten will feed all your cravings!

9. For… Small Town Markets 🌲

The cute little town of Tyrol (in Hopfgarten) hosts weekly markets every Sunday, and as I went before Christmas, all the stalls were filled with festivities, from mulled wine to cute decorations, and, of course, plenty of chocolate! 

10. For… Fun in the Snow! ☃️

Yep… we’re not just talking about snowsports. There are tonnes of other ways to enjoy the snow, including my fave, sledging. At Hofgarten, the main street is lined with little sports shops selling sledges for only two euros. So what are you waiting for? Go grab one and whizz down the learner slopes.

Now you know the 10 reasons, all that’s left to do is experience it for yourself. Join our 1 or 2-week Austria Ski group trip and learn to ski/snowboard in Hoftgarten. You’ll also tick off a day trip to Salzburg and enjoy epic themed parties. This is your sign to book. ❄️🎿