Austria offers an ultimate family friendly ski resort experience, where excitement meets relaxation.
Whether you’re just introducing your kids to skiing or looking for a peaceful retreat with plenty of winter fun, this country has something for every family.
Let’s dive into the best family ski resorts you shouldn’t miss, from scenic Zell am See to adventurous Kitzbühel. With diverse amenities catering to families, plenty of ski lessons for children, and cozy accommodations, these resorts ensure a memorable ski holiday.
Embrace the joy of skiing in Austria, and don’t forget the hot chocolate breaks by the fireplace!
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The 5 best family Ski Resorts in Austria
Kitzbuhel
For those seeking exciting adventures combined with a family-friendly atmosphere, Kitzbühel is the go-to destination. Known worldwide for its challenging runs and world-class ski events, it may surprise many that it is also a fantastic spot for families.
The resort balances the needs of experienced skiers with those of beginners and intermediate skiers, making it the perfect playground for families with diverse skiing skills. Kids’ features prominently in the resort’s design, from easy access to ski areas to playful zones where children can safely tumble in the snow. Experienced instructors at Kitzbühel’s ski schools make learning fun and engaging, ensuring young skiers are entertained and developing their skills simultaneously. Off the slopes, the town has plenty of family-friendly activities, from ice skating to sleigh rides, creating a well-rounded winter holiday.
Zell am See
Zell am See has long been one of the most popular of the ski resorts in the Salzburg side of the Austrian Alps.
The setting is stunning, with the town nestling between the ski slopes and the frozen lake. Children, however, are notoriously unimpressed with scenic beauty and there are several other advantages which make the resort attractive for family holidays.
Zell am See is relatively large for a ski resort and it has a busy summer season, which means that there are plenty of attractions outside skiing on offer. The size also means that there are plenty of ski schools with different children’s programmes and a lively centre of the resort.
The transfer to and from Salzburg airport is also relatively short and the resort also has good train connections.
Obergurgl
Obergurgl has long been a high-altitude favourite for family skiing. British ski families have been taking the journey up to the relatively isolated and exclusive resort since the first package holiday boom.
Yet the resort is not full of facilities, it’s a fair way from any airport and it’s certainly not one of the cheaper options in the Alps.
Part of the answer lies in the standard of services on offer. The local ski school has a reputation which is second-to-none and the standard of accommodation on offer is outstanding. Why look for facilities outside in the village when your hotel offers most of the ones that you want inside its four walls?
The resort itself is an attraction for families – the small size and upmarket and quiet nature making up for the journey up mountain roads.
Serfaus
Serfaus is an unusual resort in the mountains to the west of Innsbruck, with an underground railway connecting various parts of the resort to the ski lifts.
The relative absence of vehicles (most are parked in a massive car park at the entrance to the village) is one reason that Serfaus has become tremendously popular with European families.
Another is the fact that the slopes are easily accessible in a wide bowl at one end of the village and that there is a good range of skiing at a decent altitude.
The only real problem is that only the continental Europeans appear to know that the resort exists…
Ellmau
The resorts of the SkiWelt each tend to have different characters and Ellmau has long cherished its reputation as the “family resort”.
Roughly midway between Innsbruck and Salzburg, the choice of flights is good, and there is a pretty good selection of accommodation in a friendly resort that doesn’t usually attract the rowdy and youthful party crowds of some of its neighbours.
Slopes are convenient for the village, but the resort is not the highest of the Tyrolean ski areas.
Take our interactive quiz to find your perfect ski resort based on your preferences and skiing ability.
Why should you choose Austria for your family skiing Holiday?
If you’re considering a family ski holiday, Austria offers an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. With easy airport access and stunning views, your experience will be memorable.
Friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere, compared to French or Italian Ski Resorts English is widely spoken.
Austria’s reputation for good food and quality service elevates your ski holiday, turning it into a culinary journey as well. When I was a child taking ski lessons in the morning, I always looked forward to lunchtime, when I could eat Germknödel and drink Skiwasser at the ski huts.
Austria’s renowned for its family ski resorts and ski areas that cater to all, with ski lessons available for kids and adults. It’s a great choice for a ski holiday without breaking the bank, as you get excellent value compared to other countries.
Ski resorts in Austria offer more than just ski opportunities; they deliver a complete winter wonderland experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the serene beauty and diverse activities. Whether you need ski lessons for the kids or are searching for the perfect family ski experience, Austria’s got it all, making it a top choice for a safe, relaxed winter getaway. So, if you’re planning your next ski holiday, consider Austria, with its family-friendly ski resorts and welcoming ski areas, ensuring each member of the family enjoys their time on and off the slopes.
How to choose a family friendly ski hotel?
In Austria, staying at a cozy ski hotel close to picturesque ski slopes is common. The range of available family ski resorts caters to various preferences, offering either relaxed vibes or thrilling adventures. These resorts ensure your child will enjoy the snowy terrain and receive quality ski lessons. Ski Austria recommends Hotels in the repective Hotel Guide per Ski Resort – in each mentioned resort are also family friendly hotels mentioned.
Frequently asked Questions about Family Ski Resorts in Austria
Which ski resort in Austria is best for families with small children?
Austria has plenty of ski resorts which are perfect for families. All the mentioned ski resorts have gentle slopes and excellent ski schools. Of course all ski resorts offer dedicated beginner zones and English-speaking instructors.
Are there ski schools with English-speaking instructors for kids?
Yes. Most major Austrian ski resorts have ski schools with English-speaking instructors. You’ll find group lessons and private instruction in English for children as well as for adults. Even smaller resorts often have at least a few instructors who can teach in English.
Do Austrian resorts offer childcare or kids’ clubs?
Many family-oriented Hotels in family friendly ski resorts offer childcare services, kindergartens, or kids’ clubs.
What’s the best time to plan a family ski holiday in Austria?
The main ski season in Austria runs from mid-December to early April. Families often prefer February and March, when snow is reliable but the days are longer and sunnier. Christmas and New Year are magical times with festive activities, but also busier and more expensive. March can be an excellent balance with milder weather that’s more comfortable for children.
Is it compulsory to wear a helmet in Austria?
By law, helmets are compulsory for children and teenagers under 15 in most Austrian provinces. For adults, helmets are not legally required, but they are strongly recommended. Almost all skiers, regardless of age, now choose to wear helmets, and ski schools will not allow children to join without one. You can usually rent helmets in ski rental stores.
