Originally a way-station for travellers over the Arlberg pass, St Christoph is now a small ski resort with exclusive hotels in the snow clustered around a couple of lifts linking into the centre of the Arlberg ski area.
In contrast to the hectic pace of life in St Anton, St Christoph provides an exclusive (and expensive) high alpine experience for its mostly well-heeled guests. St Christoph, just under the Arlberg Pass, is more a settlement than a village.
The principal attraction, of course, is the direct access to the slopes right in the middle of the Arlberg ski area. At an altitude of 1800 metres it is one of the highest ski resorts in Austria and snow can just about be guaranteed for skiers looking to take the easy piste down towards Alpe Rauz and Stuben or hop on a ski lift for runs to St Anton.
Nowhere in the tiny village is very far from a ski slope and the intermediate level of the skiing means it makes a perfect base for those who want to pamper themselves. Nursery slopes are also available near the village.
Experienced skiers, on the other hand, will find it a convenient mountain location to get to the ski routes off the Valluga or the connection through to Zürs and Lech and the rest of the Arlberg ski region.
Drivers should carry full winter equipment, as bad weather can force driving restrictions for the mountain pass and the road to St Anton.
A-6580 St Christoph
Tel: 05446 2611
Fax: 05446 3773
Website: www.arlberghospiz.at
The Arlberg Hospiz is one of Austria's most famous five-star hotels. The building is situated on the site of a historic hospice which was founded in the Middle Ages to help travellers struggling over the Arlberg Pass. The old Hospiz Inn was converted into luxury accommodation in the 1950s and now also offers suites in the nearby Hospiz Alm Residenz and the Skyfall Chalet.
A map of St Christoph am Arlberg with some of the accommodation options. Click on the prices for more details:
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