Skiing in Styria
Fresh mountain air and rustic ski huts
What do skiers, freeriders, carvers and snowboarders have in common? They all can spend a holiday to their taste in the ski resorts of Styria.
Kilometre-long ski runs, fresh powder slopes, or steep firn descents: Its different topographies, coupled with numerous additional offers, make the green heart of Austria an attractive winter sports destination – from huge winter sports arenas such as the Schladming 4-Mountain Ski Area and sporty resorts as Kreischberg, Tauplitz or Stuhleck to small, beginner-friendly ski resorts in the south and east as the ski resort Salzstiegl near Graz or the family ski resort St. Jakob im Walde in Eastern Styria.
Good to know:
- High altitudes and state-of-the-art snow-making facilities ensure plenty of snow.
- Several hundred ski huts and snow bars serve refreshments, drinks and culinary delights.
Important information and services
When does the winter season start, and what do you need to keep in mind when going ski touring? To stay safe in the mountains, you should have a look at the FIS code of conduct for skiers and snowboarders as well as the current avalanche warnings.
Skiing with the whole family
Styria has a lot in store for little guests with big aspirations. Between the Dachstein and Stuhleck, there are a few "treats" waiting for all budding winter sports enthusiasts – from ski kindergartens to practice lifts, magic carpets and more ... The "Schneebärenland" in Tauplitz offers low-priced packages for families. And at Riesneralm ski resort in Donnersbachwald, a true highlight awaits little snow sports fans: the "1st Austrian Children's Ski Area". It is five hectares in size and equipped with five lifts. More tips for families: On Kreischberg, the Yabba-Dabba-Doo Land makes children jump for joy. Lachtal ski resort delights with its own "Kinder-Lachtal", and a Gallic ski village is waiting for children on Galsterberg.
Perfect for kids: The small, but mighty fine ski resorts are easy to navigate, family-friendly and inexpensive.
Terrain parks, funslopes and more
Ready, shred, go! In addition to the diverse range of ski runs, wintery Styria also boasts a selection of terrain parks and funslopes. Fantastic conditions thanks to perfectly shaped elements ensure that freestyle skiers and snowboarders truly get their money's worth – regardless of their skill level.
The best-known locations for adrenaline junkies and daredevils include:
Styria's ski and snow sports schools
Almost 60 ski schools in Styria know the ins and outs of teaching children how to ski, and after a few snowploughs, they'll soon be making their first turns. But the ski and snow sports schools in Styria also have the right offers for adults wanting to learn how to ski or all those who want to (re)start after a longer hiatus.
Night skiing between Schladming and East Styria
Your day on the slopes was way too short? Or maybe you're more in the mood for some skiing in the evening? Several ski resorts in Styria offer night skiing. From large floodlit areas in Schladming to small but beautiful illuminated slopes in East Styria, there's something for every type of night owl.
And one thing is for sure: Skiing and snowboarding under the stars is a unique experience you definitely shouldn't miss. To top off a perfect evening on the slopes, we recommend you stop at one of the numerous cosy huts. In pleasant company, you can enjoy regional delicacies from Styria.
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about ski holidays in Austria
When the key questions about a ski holiday are answered in advance, the anticipation only grows. We’ve gathered the most important answers for you.
Ski resorts & snow reliability
Higher-altitude ski resorts are naturally more snow-reliable. However, almost all ski resorts in Steiermark are equipped with modern snowmaking systems, ensuring a stable winter season. It is always worth checking the latest snow report before your visit.
Current snow depths, open lifts, and slope reports are regularly updated on platforms such as Bergfex. Many ski resorts update their snow reports there on a daily basis.
Several ski resorts in the Steiermark are easily accessible by public transport. For example:
- the 4-Mountain Ski Area in Schladming,
- Stuhleck, and
- Kreischberg
all offer the ÖBB winter sports combo ticket, which includes the train journey, transfer to the valley station, and the ski pass.
Learning to ski & getting back into skiing
Nearly all ski resorts in Steiermark offer ski schools, ski kindergartens, and equipment hire. This makes organising a day on the slopes or an entire ski holiday much easier.
In the ski resorts of Steiermark, ski schools offer lessons for children from around the age of three. Ski kindergartens and supervised children’s areas introduce little ones to the snow in a playful and safe way. Clear practice slopes, magic carpets, and beginner pistes provide plenty of variety for those first turns on skis.
Ultimately, a child’s enthusiasm, focus, and physical development are more important for learning to ski than age alone.
Yes, for several reasons small ski resorts are ideal for beginners aund children: they are easier to navigate, offer greater safety, and feature gentle practice slopes as well as specially designed beginner areas – ideal for children and newcomers making their first turns on skis.
Absolutely. The wide beginner slopes and calm atmosphere offer ideal conditions for those returning to skiing who want to get back on the slopes without any pressure.
Experiences & activities
Yes. While the larger ski resorts offer various options, the smaller ones also feature rustic ski huts and mountain restaurants. Regional cuisine, short distances, and the warm, personal atmosphere in the huts make for cosy breaks with authentic Styrian specialities.
Many ski resorts offer toboggan runs, winter hiking and walking trails, as well as indoor pools and thermal spas such as the GrimmingTherme in Bad Mitterndorf or the Aqualux Therme in Fohnsdorf.
For children, there are also areas for sledging or small adventure zones where they can build snow castles and snowmen.
The legendary night giant slalom and night slalom spectacle – known as the Nightrace – takes place at the end of January as part of the Alpine FIS Ski World Cup, traditionally following the Hahnenkamm races in Kitzbühel.