Ötztal Valley Ski Area

Après-ski in the Ötztal Valley caters to every mood, from Sölden's legendary party energy to Gurgl's elevated alpine elegance.

• In Sölden, the action kicks off early at slope-side spots like Umbrella Bar and Piste with DJ sets and dancing in ski boots, before spilling into the village's clubs like Fire & Ice for late-night revelry.
• The valley amps up the spectacle with unique events like the Hannibal Glacier Show – a torchlit performance on the Rettenbach Glacier – and the Electric Mountain Festival, where world-class DJs spin against a backdrop of towering peaks.
• For a more refined experience, Ice Q (of James Bond fame) delivers gourmet dining at 3,048m with floor-to-ceiling mountain views.
• The Top Mountain Star at 3,080m in Gurgl is Europe's highest whiskey bar, offering sunset cocktails above the clouds, while Hohe Mut Alm serves artisanal schnapps in a traditional yet polished setting.
• Five-star hotels like the ANGEL curate sophisticated wine tastings and live jazz evenings. This isn't sleepy après – it's a celebration of alpine chic, where the dress code leans toward designer mountain wear and the soundtrack is more clinking glasses than pounding beats.

The Ötztal Valley is packed full of services and amenities, designed for a smooth and satisfying winter holiday. Visitors will find multiple sports shops and rental outlets offering the latest ski and snowboard equipment, along with professional fitting services, easily accessible throughout the major resorts. The valley's renowned ski schools feature highly credentialed instructors, providing tailored programmes for all ages and skill levels, from individual coaching to group lessons designed for effective progression. Purchasing an Ötztal Superskipass is straightforward at various points, granting access across the entire valley.

Distinguishing features off the slopes include the celebrated Aqua Dome thermal spa in Längenfeld, a sprawling complex of pools and saunas offering a unique opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the Alpine landscape. In Sölden, the impressive 007 Elements cinematic installation at the Gaislachkogl summit provides an immersive journey into the world of James Bond, set within an original film location. Additionally, the Top Mountain Crosspoint and Motorcycle Museum in Hochgurgl presents an unexpected cultural diversion, housing a unique collection of motorcycles. Dining experiences are also diverse, ranging from traditional mountain eateries serving hearty Tyrolean fare to high-end gourmet restaurants. An efficient bus network provides seamless transport between the villages and ski areas, so you'll get back easily wherever you spend the night.

The Ötztal Valley presents a highly welcoming environment for families, with a variety of facilities specifically developed to engage and support younger visitors. Throughout the valley’s resorts, dedicated children's ski schools employ patient and enthusiastic instructors who specialise in introducing snow sports through playful and imaginative methods, often utilising specially designed learning zones with gentle gradients and engaging aids like magic carpets. Specific areas, like WIDI’s Kinderland in Hochoetz, offer secure, supervised environments for those early snow experiences and fun progression.

Beyond the ski instruction, many resorts offer convenient childcare services and kindergarten options, affording parents flexibility to enjoy the slopes. Off-snow, the valley provides a selection of engaging activities. Families can enjoy thrilling toboggan runs, such as the long illuminated track from the Gaislachkogl middle station in Sölden, or participate in convivial ice skating in the villages. A visit to the Aqua Dome thermal spa in Längenfeld offers family-friendly pools and slides for a relaxing afternoon. Moreover, the valley frequently hosts family-focused events and provides engaging walking trails designed with children in mind, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable holiday for all ages.