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Ski holidays in Gastein

The Gastein Valley offers a fab winter adventure, where every aspect of your stay is geared towards comfort and enjoyment, promising an unforgettable journey through its unique landscapes.

This expansive valley hosts a collection of interconnected ski areas, each with its own character: the historic, Belle Époque grandeur of Bad Gastein, the family-friendly and wellness-focused Bad Hofgastein, the welcoming Dorfgastein (linked with Großarl), and the high-alpine, snow-laden expanse of Sportgastein. Embraced within the vast Ski amadé network, Gastein offers a compelling proposition where diverse slope experiences meet unparalleled opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation, creating a holistic winter escape unlike any other.

The valley extends a warm invitation to those seeking more than just skiing; it promises a complete sensory experience. Imagine carving crisp turns on varied terrain by day, then immersing yourself in invigorating thermal springs by evening, all within a setting of captivating natural beauty. Gastein represents an ideal choice for visitors desiring a comprehensive holiday that perfectly balances energetic pursuits with moments of profound tranquillity and cultural charm, ensuring a remarkably enriching sojourn in the Austrian Alps.

This destination stands out by offering both traditional Alpine charm and modern amenities. Its resorts provide various environments, from the lively atmosphere in certain areas to the peaceful serenity found in others, making it adaptable for various preferences.

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Gastein mountain facts

The Gastein region, a significant component of the larger Ski amadé alliance, provides an impressive array of winter terrain. Within the valley, guests can access approximately 200km of meticulously groomed pistes, served by a robust network of 45 modern lift systems. The skiing extends across several distinct mountainsides, reaching elevations from 860m up to a considerable 2,686m at the summit of Sportgastein's Kreuzkogel, marking the highest accessible point within the valley. The main interconnected areas include the Stubnerkogel-Angertal-Schlossalm link, Graukogel in Bad Gastein, Dorfgastein-Großarl, and the standalone high-alpine Sportgastein, collectively offering a broad spectrum of gradients and experiences for every participant.

Snow conditions in Gastein

Snow conditions in the Gastein Valley are reliably consistent throughout the winter season, ensuring excellent coverage for an extended period. Sportgastein, the highest accessible ski area within the valley, is crucial in securing favourable snow coverage and boasts abundant natural powder. Across all the Gastein ski areas, significant investment has been made in advanced snow generation systems, guaranteeing pristine piste quality even when natural snowfall is less prolific. This commitment to maintaining optimal conditions ensures you can enjoy perfect slopes and skiing from early December through to April.

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Skiing in Gastein

Skiing in Gastein Valley offers a perfectly balanced experience for every ability level, from first-timers to seasoned experts. Beginners thrive in the gentle, wide nursery slopes of Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein, where dedicated learning areas and patient ski school instructors create an ideal environment to master the basics. Intermediates will love exploring the Stubnerkogel-Angertal-Schlossalm circuit, where kilometre after kilometre of beautifully groomed blue and red runs wind through picturesque landscapes – perfect for building confidence while soaking up the stunning Alpine views.

For advanced skiers, Gastein delivers serious challenges and adrenaline-pumping terrain. The Graukogel in Bad Gastein is a standout, with its steep, shaded black runs that hold snow superbly, offering a thrilling test for technical skiers. Meanwhile, Sportgastein – the highest ski area in the valley – serves up rugged high-alpine terrain, including ungroomed ski routes and natural off-piste opportunities for those seeking untracked powder and exhilarating descents.

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Snowboarding in Gastein

Snowboarding in Gastein Valley delivers the perfect mix of park progression, all-mountain carving, and backcountry adventure – all wrapped in authentic Austrian charm. Freestylers will love the Stubnerkogel and Kreuzkogel snow parks, where perfectly maintained kickers, rails, and boxes cater to every level, from first-time jibbers to seasoned park rats. The parks' thoughtful designs feature progressive lines, allowing riders to build skills step-by-step while enjoying the stunning alpine backdrop that makes sessions here unforgettable.

Beyond the parks, Gastein's wide, groomed cruisers are a carver's paradise, with flowing red runs like those on Schlossalm offering endless opportunities for sweeping turns and speed. For powder hounds, Sportgastein is the crown jewel – its high-altitude bowls and natural terrain hold fresh snow long after storms, offering everything from mellow powder fields to challenging off-piste lines. With modern lifts (including gondolas and high-speed chairs) minimising flat traverses, you'll spend less time skating and more time shredding Gastein's diverse terrain.

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Après-ski in Gastein

Gastein’s après-ski scene masterfully blends high-energy fun and cosy tradition, offering something for every mood.

In Bad Gastein, the party kicks off early at slope-side spots like:

  • Silver Bullet Bar, where live bands and DJs fuel dancing in ski boots
  • Felsenbar, a legendary hangout built into the cliffs
  • Mountain huts like Stubnerkogel Alm, where schnapps flows as lifts close
Over in Bad Hofgastein, the vibe shifts to authentic Austrian charm:
  • Kirchenwirt and Bräustüberl serve local beers with folk music
  • Schlossalm’s sun terraces for laidback post-ski drinks with panoramic views
  • Thermal spa bars (like Alpentherme) for relaxed soaks with a cocktail
While not as wild as mega-resorts, Gastein’s après wins with genuine hospitality and diverse options, whether you’re craving a dance party or a fireside schnapps with new friends.
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Facilities in Gastein

The Gastein area delivers a seamless ski holiday experience with top-tier facilities designed for convenience and comfort. Benefit from modern rental shops stocked with high-performance gear, strategically located across Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein, and Dorfgastein, while the valley’s renowned ski schools – many with English-speaking instructors – offer everything from private guiding to group lessons tailored for all ages. The Gastein Ski amadé lift pass (covering 760km of linked terrain) provides effortless access via gondolas like the Stubnerkogelbahn, with digital ticket options to minimise queues.

What truly sets Gastein apart is its legendary thermal spa culture, blending alpine adventure with deep relaxation. The Felsentherme Bad Gastein, carved into dramatic cliffs, and Alpentherme Bad Hofgastein, with its outdoor heated pools under starry skies, offer therapeutic soaks in mineral-rich waters. Beyond the slopes, thrill-seekers can walk the Glocknerblick suspension bridge or the Stubnerkogel Cliff Walk for jaw-dropping valley views, while foodies can savour everything from hearty Brettljausen in mountain huts to gourmet dining at hotels like Miramonte. This perfect mix of sport, wellness, and alpine charm makes Gastein especially rewarding.

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Facilities for children in Gastein

The Gastein Valley shines as a family-friendly winter paradise, where thoughtful facilities and engaging activities cater perfectly to younger visitors. At the heart of the experience are the valley’s exceptional ski schools, where specially trained instructors use playful techniques and themed lessons (like the popular Gasti the Dragon program) to make first turns magical. Dedicated learning areas at Angertal and Dorfgastein feature gentle slopes with magic carpets, adventure trails, and obstacle courses designed to build confidence while keeping kids entertained. The Gasti Snowparks add to the fun with mini jumps and tunnels, transforming skill development into an exciting game.

Beyond skiing, Gastein keeps families entertained with diverse winter activities that create lasting memories. The Alpentherme’s Family World in Bad Hofgastein is a hit with its water slides and warm pools, while the Stubnerkogel Fun Centre (at 2,200m!) offers an indoor climbing playground with panoramic mountain views. Outdoor adventures abound too – from floodlit toboggan runs through snowy forests to ice skating rinks in the valley villages. With cosy family-friendly hotels offering kids’ menus and early dining options, plus the convenience of ski-in, ski-out access in many areas, Gastein removes the stress from family holidays, leaving only the joy of shared mountain moments.

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Why choose a ski holiday to Gastein with Erna Low?

Experience and service: We offer you a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need for a ski holiday.

Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.

Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.

Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.

5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.

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If you cannot find what you are looking for please contact us and we can help you build your package

Skiing in the Gastein Valley is great with over 200 km of slopes to explore, climbing up to 2,686m and majestic views of the surrounding peaks.

Jane Bolton, Product Director

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