The Arlberg (1,270 - 2,811 m) is known as one of the most reliable regions for snow in the entire Alpine area, and it offers a range mountain peaks with challenging ski routes, powder snow terrain, snowparks and trendy apres ski bars. The Arlberg is therefore a real Allrounder for winter sports. It offers two large areas: the souther side with St. Anton and the adjoining villages St. Christoph, St. Jakob and Stuben, and the north-western side with the resorts Zürs and Lech and Warth-Schröcken. Further there is also a great ski area at the Sonnenkopf in Klösterle.
Located in the famous Austrian Alps, the Arlberg has a rich and fascinating history that has significantly shaped modern skiing. Here, in the sweeping mountain region of the Austrian Alps, lies the cradle of alpine skiing, where alpine skiing as we know it today was developed. It’s here in the Arlberg where skiing was transformed. Trailblazers like Hannes Schneider revolutionized skiing techniques and teaching methods, creating the famous Arlberg ski style that is the foundation of skiing today. In fact, Schneider opened the first ski school in the Arlberg.
In 1884, Emperor Franz Joseph I opened the Arlberg Railway, opening up the Arlberg region to visitors. The Arlberg Ski Club was founded in 1901 and the first race took place in 1904, before there were any lifts or prepared slopes. In 1921 the first ski school was founded in Arlberg. Later, in 1931, the first of several films, Der Weiße Rausch, directed by Arnold Fanck, was made.
The tradition-steeped ski resort St. Anton am Arlberg is a pioneer considering winter sport. Here´s the place where Hannes Schneider founded the first ski school back in 1921. He also invented a totally new driving technique that replaced telemark skiing and made the parallel skiing to what it is today.
With 47 cabins for ten people each, the Flexenbahn lift connects Lech-Zürs with Stuben/Alpe Rauz. During the ride, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the Klostertal through large panoramic windows. The pistes in the multi-faceted ski area offer plenty of variety, fun and challenges for everyone, from beginners to snowboarders, and from freestylers to professionals who can let off steam on the World Cup pistes.
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The Arlberg, featuring the largest connected ski area in Austria, has long since achieved legendary status with its combination of breathtaking ski terrain, beautiful landscapes, and historic traditions. Never-ending ski terrain, deep powder, an incredible après-ski scene, amazing restaurants, and warm hospitality continue to characterize the Arlberg’s iconic winter experience.
Key Facts About Ski Arlberg
Winter sports fans with the "SkiArlberg" lift pass can enjoy 302 km of piste as well as 87 lift systems. Due to the connections created through the Flexen lift, Trittkopf lift and the Albona II lift, the ski areas of St. Anton, Stuben, Zürs and Warth-Schröcken can be skied along seamlessly. This makes the "Ski Arlberg" the largest ski area in Austria.
300 kilometers (186 miles) of groomed slopes and 200 kilometers (124 miles) of high alpine deep snow runs, served by 85 lifts and cable cars, make Ski Arlberg one of the largest ski areas in the world.
Offering 190 miles of slopes and terrain, St. Anton (Ski Arlberg) is the largest ski resort in Austria. Elevated between 4278 ft and 9222 ft, the Ski Resort is among the 15 highest elevated Ski Resorts in Austria. The vertical drop from summit to base is 4944 ft.
The Ski Arlberg ski area is situated in the Arlberg massif in the states of Vorarlberg and Tyrol (Austria). Since 2013, the ski resort includes the villages of Klösterle, Lech, Oberlech, Schröcken, St. Anton am Arlberg, St. The highest elevation of the ski area is the top of the Valluga mountain at 2,811 m above sea level in St.
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Here are some mountain facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ski Lifts | 85 |
| Ski Runs | 186 miles |
| Freeriding Options | 124 miles |
| Winter Hiking Trails | 80 miles |
| Cross-Country Trails | 43 miles |
| Ski Schools | 50+ |
| Vertical Drop | 4,994 ft |
| Altitude | 4,278 - 9,222 ft |
| Highest Peak: Valluga | 9,222 ft |
| When is the ski season? | December 3, 2025 - April 19, 2026 |
Ski Arlberg is included in the Epic Pass when staying at a participating lodging property.
Skiing in St. Anton
St. Anton Am Arlberg is a truly charming and lively resort with an impressive skiing area. Located at 1,300m altitude, this world-renowned resort forms part of the Arlberg ski area which boasts 305km of skiable terrain. With an extensive and efficient lift system, there’s much to explore.
St. Anton’s ski area is divided into four main sectors; Galzig, Gampen & Nasserein, Rendl, and Valluga. Accessible directly from the town centre, these sectors offer a vast range of runs.
Skiing for Beginners
Although St. Anton is known as a destination for more experienced skiers, it does offer some suitable slopes for beginners. There are several nursery slopes around the Rendl and Nasserein areas which are perfect for those just starting out. As you advance, areas such as Galzig offer gentle blue runs to build confidence, like the Galzigbahn descent.
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Intermediate Skiing
St. Anton is a paradise for intermediate skiers seeking to challenge themselves. With several blue and red runs, intermediates will have plenty of options to choose from. The Gampen & Nasserein area offers a variety of wide, sweeping blues and more challenging reds. For those looking for a bit more of a thrill, Galzig offers some of the steepest reds in the area, like the Kandahar run, which is often used for championship races.
Advanced Skiing
St. Anton’s reputation as a top resort for advanced skiers is well-deserved. With a significant proportion of black runs, there’s an array of challenging terrain to tackle. The most famous run is probably the Valluga North Face, known for its steep and ungroomed terrain. This is not for the faint-hearted and requires a guide due to avalanche risk.
Off-Piste Skiing
St. Anton is a dream destination for off-piste skiing enthusiasts. With a wide variety of off-piste areas, from steep couloirs to open powder fields, the resort promises thrilling adventures. The most popular off-piste route is probably the Mattun route, known for its steep, untouched powder snowfields. For those seeking a challenge, the Valluga North Face offers an intense off-piste experience.
Book Ski Lessons in St. Regardless of your ability, St. Anton Am Arlberg caters to all types of skiers.
Mountain Innovations
When it comes to innovative and forward-thinking approaches, the Arlberg region has long been a role model. Here are some of the mountain innovations that the locals are especially proud of:
- Galzigbahn: In 2006, the historic gondola (one of the first in the Alps) underwent a groundbreaking innovation in cable car construction. The gondolas are now detachable from their 2-wire ropes and lowered to the ground level, eliminating the need for stairs.
- Valluga viewing platform: Once you reach the Valluga summit at 9,000ft above sea level, it boasts a 360-degree panorama showcasing peaks from five countries: Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Germany.
- No need for a car: The region is easily reached by train, and the local bus service plus the 'Blaue Flotte' (Blue Fleet) of ski buses eliminate the need for a car. The mountain hamlet Oberlech proudly remains entirely car-free, with hotels accessible solely via an intricate tunnel system.
- Top-notch lift technology: Enjoy comfy rides with heated seats, weather-protecting covers, automated safety bars, and large 8-seater lifts.
- Sustainability pioneer: The Arlberg region meets nearly 100% of its energy and heating needs through hydroelectric power plants and a biomass heating facility fueled by locally sourced wood chips - that includes ski lift seat heating.
A remarkable lift is the Weibermahd which is a combination lift, meaning that 8-person chairlifts and 10-person gondolas alternate on the same rope.
Après-Ski and Nightlife
The Arlberg is famous for its legendary après-ski scene. From the lively party atmosphere in St. Anton to the more relaxed vibes in Lech and Zürs, there are ample opportunities to mingle with locals and high society alike and get your taste of Alpine nightlife.
Here are some of the local’s favourites:
- Mooserwirt: An iconic spot in St. Anton, known for its parties that continue late into the night.
- Balmalp: The perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying some drinks on the sun deck with a 360-degree view, accessible via gondola from Lech.
- Hospiz Alm: Lively vibes await you at the Arlberg's oldest establishment, located in the high-altitude town of St. Christoph.
St. Anton am Arlberg is not only a pioneer for alpine winter sport but also well-know for being THE apres-ski spot. Most of the umbrella and snow bars are halfway up the mountain. Popular meeting points are Gampen bar and Patteriol bar. The party nights at Mooser Wirth and Krazy Kanguruh in the lower section are often called legendary by locals and seasonnaires. The party continues in St. Anton. In town there are loads of bars welcoming with tasty cocktails and dangerously great mixed drinks. And if your bed still isn´t beckoning you then Kandahar and Piccadily are open until the crack of dawn.
Number of Bars and Pubs: 22
Dining and Restaurants
In Austria, the food is an integral part of the skiing experience, and the Arlberg is a true foodie destination. With over 30 Gault Millau restaurants, it boasts the highest density of award-winning restaurants in Austria.
Here are some of the locals' favourite spots, from fancy gourmet to cosy traditional:
- Rote Wand Chef's Table: A Gault Millau's top ten restaurant in Austria, where you can also witness the chefs at work.
- Hospiz Alm: Top-notch traditional cuisine and an expansive wine cellar for private tastings in St. Christoph.
Vacationers can choose between about 80 restaurants- including touquet cuisine. Europe´s touquet restaurant with the highest altitude, the Verwallstube, is definitely worth a visit in your free time. The view from 2.085 meters (6840 feet), the unique wine list and great fish specialties are convincing arguments, aren´t they? Raffl´s in the valley has a varied menu including local dishes but you will also notice international influence. Hospiz in St. Christoph specializes in sophisticated food by using only local ingredients. Hotel Alte Post combines great food and a special environment. It´s awarded with a toquet and serves in rooms with a original panel from the 18th century.
Accommodation Tips
These establishments offer more than just a place to stay; they provide a warm and personalized experience that makes guests feel part of the family. Here are some of the local's recommendations:
- Hotel Gasthof Post Lech*****: A historic family-run hotel in Lech and one of the renowned "Relais & Châteaux hotels."
- Kristiania Lech****: A boutique hotel in Lech featuring lovingly designed rooms and a vibrant arts program.
- Grand Resort Zürserhof*****s: Ski-in & ski-out at the luxury resort directly at the piste in Zürs.
- Ullrhaus****: A new design hotel where nature meets luxury in St. Anton.
- Hotel Tannenhof*****s: An exclusive luxury hotel in the heart of St. Anton.
- Raffl's St. Antoner Hof*****: A stylish boutique hotel in St. Anton with an award-winning restaurant.
- House Hannes Schneider*****: A cosy 19th-century farmhouse transformed into a luxury chalet in Stuben.
Other Activities
You will find countless non-skiing activities in St. Anton am Arlberg that will keep you entertained even if you´re not into skiing or snowboarding.
What a thrill! That´s what you´ll say once you´ve experienced the 4,3 km (2,6 miles) long natural tobogganrun from Gampen to Nasserein. More runs are in Petttneu, Schnann, Flirsch and Strengen. Give hiking a shot by exploring the 70 well-prepared kilometers (43 miles) of winter hiking tracks. Located right in the center of St. Anton am Arlberg is an ice-skating rink. The only climb route in the whole area of Tyrol is an other great option to spend some time in the clear winter air. The route is at the Rendl and yet has a length of 850 meter (2788 feet). From here you have a breathtaking panorama of the Verwall mountains and the Lechtaler alps. If the weather plays along the view extends to Southern Tyrol.
All indoor types who still want to be sportive will love the sport center arl.rock. Next to an indoor climbing hall you´ll find a bowling alley and squash courts. The wellness park Arlberg Stanzertal in Pettneu or ARLBERG- well.com in St. Anton are great sources for relaxation. The swimming pools, steam baths and sauna will even please the most exhausted skiers.
For those who are into culture: a visit at the museum of skiing and local history in the Arlberg-Kandahar house is highly worthwhile. Visitors dive deep into the world of the skiing history- after all Arlberg is the pioneer resort for alpine skiing.
Getting There
Anton am Arlberg. Pass by Innsbruch and Landeck. From Munich it´s also possible to get to Landeck via Fernpass. Coming from the West, drive on A14 to Feldkirch and Bludenz and follow S16. Reach the ski resort via Arlbergpass or Arlberg tunnel.
By train
It´s not complicated to get to St. Anton am Arlberg by train. All international express trains have stops here what makes it fairly uncomplicated for winter vacationers to get here.
By plane
The next airports are Innsbruck (100 kilometers away) and Friedrichshafen (130 kilometers away).