![[EL_Header_Close]](https://cdn2.ernalow.co.uk//images/icons/_Other/Icons_XMark_50Navy.webp){kind=icon}
Mayrhofen ski resort
Located in Tyrol in the Austrian Alps, Mayrhofen is a stunning traditional-style ski resort which is blessed by brilliant slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all stripes.
There’s 142km of crisp corduroy here, with plenty of blues and reds for intermediate skiers, a plethora of easy runs for novices, and a batch of black runs that includes Austria’s steepest, the Harakiri, which is an eye-watering 78% gradient. Meanwhile, snowboarders and freestyle skiers will feel right at home here too, thanks to a well-appointed snowpark and plenty of off-piste terrain to explore.
Don’t let a modest 630m resort height fool you ̶ there’s pristine powder aplenty up to 3250m thanks to the close proximity of the Hinterlux glacier and Mayrhofen is part of the Zillertal ski area, which boasts a gargantuan 515km skiable area with an uber-efficient lift network that whisks you smoothly from one awesome snow-kissed playground to another.
There’s lots of authentic chalet-style accommodation in Mayrhofen ski resort and the chocolate box ambience is enhanced further by a charming church. However, come early evening this is by no means sleepy valley ̶ the renowned apres-ski scene is powered by bustling bars right by the side of the slopes and several bouncing clubs in the resort proper.
But if your main off-slope focus is rest and relaxation you’re in luck too, because there ‘s a wide range of comfy and stylish accommodation options here, many of which have onsite pool and spa facilities, while serene alternative activities include traditional horse drawn sleigh rides or simply strolling around soaking up the awe-inspiring scenery.
When you want an amazing all-rounder Austrian ski resort, Mayrhofen is truly magnificent and no one’s more capable of helping you make the most of it than Erna Low!
Such a fun resort, plentyful skiing, great on a powder day, home to the Harakiri, then download back to town and enjoy everything on offer.
Rebecca Dodson, Sales Manager
Mayrhofen mountain facts
When you see the stats, it’s easy to see why Mayrhofen's ski area is so popular with winter sports enthusiasts! The local Mayrhofen-Hippach sector itself offers an incredible 136km of pistes, while the Zillertal Superskipass unlocks access to over 500km of interconnected ski slopes across the entire valley. The resort is served by 47 state-of-the-art lifts, including the efficient Penkenbahn gondola that transports a whopping 2,400 passengers per hour from the town centre to the Penken ski area. Elevations range from 630m in the picturesque village up to 2,500m at the Ahorn summit, ensuring fantastic snow reliability throughout the season.
The pistes range in difficulty, providing ideal progression and confidence-building opportunities for developing skiers while also offering plenty of fun challenges for more experienced riders. There are snow-makers at the ready, too, which covers an impressive 80% of the ski area through an extensive network of 1,000+ snow cannons. However, average annual snowfall exceeds 6 metres, so you’re almost guaranteed excellent snow cover across the resort. Can’t-miss highlights include the infamous Harakiri run, the excellent Vans Penken Park terrain park and the separate Ahorn family area, which has a decent selection of gentle, sunny slopes that beginner skiers will love.
Snow conditions in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen enjoys reliably good snow conditions thanks to its high-altitude location and advanced snow-making network. The north-facing slopes of the Penken and Ahorn mountains deliver perpetually skiable pistes, while the cold temperatures and impressive elevations of 2,500m ensure peak-condition snow throughout the season. The resort's extensive snow-making infrastructure guarantees good coverage from early December through April – even during unseasonably milder periods. Recent seasons have seen average snowfall around 6 metres, with snow depths often exceeding 2 meters on the upper slopes by mid-winter.
The nearby Hintertux Glacier, which is a 30-minute bus ride away, offers guaranteed year-round skiing while also allowing you to get your ski fix throughout summer! Another highlight is the famous Harakiri run, which is meticulously groomed each day to maintain its challenging steep pitch. Freeriders can find excellent powder in the Eggalm and Rastkogel sectors after fresh snowfall, which are both an absolute dream to ski. To summarise, Mayrhofen's snow reliability, combined with its easy access to the Hintertux Glacier, makes it one of Austria's most dependable winter sports destinations.
Why should I ski in Mayrhofen?
With epic slopes, jaw-dropping views and extensive holiday-making facilities, Mayrhofen is what can only be described as a standout ski resort. Here are just some of the reasons why you should book a ski holiday to Mayrhofen: The exceptional variety of terrain caters perfectly to all levels and abilities. Beginner skiers have excellent dedicated areas on the Ahorn, intermediates can enjoy countless scenic red runs across the Penken, and experts can test themselves on the Harakiri or explore challenging off-piste routes. There really is an entire playground to explore.
- The resort's authentic Tyrolean character combined with its charming architecture and warm hospitality provides a genuine Austrian alpine experience often missing in larger, more commercialised resorts. Good news if you’re after a winter holiday with spades of character.
- The efficient lift system, highlighted by the Penkenbahn gondola that we deliberately keep mentioning, ensures minimal queue times, allowing you to get maximum ski fix!
- Families will particularly appreciate the excellent learning areas, dedicated children's facilities and traffic-free village centre, which makes the resort safe and easy to navigate.
Snowboarding in Mayrhofen
![[EL_AltText_Landing1]](https://cdn2.ernalow.co.uk/images/landing/vkw96SKR.jpeg)
Mayrhofen has earned a well-deserved reputation as a snowboarder's paradise, offering exceptional facilities and varied terrain that all riding styles will be more than happy to play on. Here are some of our highlights for snowboarders:
- The Vans Penken Park is one of Europe's standout terrain parks, with an impressive array of kickers, rails, boxes and a superb halfpipe that hosts international competitions providing opportunities to master all the moves under the mountain sun.
- Freeriders will find endless opportunities in the natural hits and powder stashes of the Eggalm and Rastkogel areas, while the nearby Hintertux Glacier provides year-round off-piste possibilities. Better get that avalanche kit packed!
- The resort features dedicated boardercross tracks for those who enjoy technical challenges, and the predominantly north-facing slopes maintain excellent snow conditions for cruising, carving and absolutely everything in between.
- The lift system is predominantly snowboarder-friendly, with gondolas and chairs serving most areas. You’ll only need to navigate a few drag lifts if exploring further afield... Music to the ears of anyone who prefers riding one plank instead of two!
What accommodation is available when I ski in Mayrhofen?
Mayrhofen offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. What makes Mayrhofen's accommodation special is its authentic Tyrolean character - you'll find everything from charming family-run B&Bs alongside modern hotels, all maintaining the village's traditional alpine aesthetic. Many properties feature wellness areas with saunas and steam rooms – an Austrian speciality perfect for relaxing after an exhausting, but rewarding, day on the slopes. With options ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, Mayrhofen provides the perfect base for every type of ski holiday you could possibly imagine.
Mayrhofen Ski Resort
Après-ski in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen's legendary après-ski scene offers an unforgettable mix of high-energy parties and cosy mountain ambience. What makes Mayrhofen's après so infectious is its variety - you can enjoy a quiet drink watching the sunset over the mountains one evening and dance the night away another. Everything’s within walking distance of most properties, too, so you never have to travel far to find a great night out (or wander back home afterwards!). The resort also hosts regular special events like the infamous Snowbombing festival, which transforms Mayrhofen into Europe's biggest alpine party venue each spring - not one to be missed! Here are some of Erna Low’s top highlights:
- The world-famous Brückenstadl sets the standard for incredible alpine après, where table-top dancing to live music while still wearing your ski boots begins in the afternoon and continues late into the evening.
- The unique Ice Bar, which maintains a bone-chilling temperature of -12°C, provides an extraordinary setting for cocktails served in glasses made of ice. Just don’t forget to wrap up warm!
- If you’re after a more relaxed, low-key vibe, traditional hütten like the Gasser and Böglerhof serve up excellent local wines and schnapps by roaring fires. Dreamy!
- Scotland Yard offers brilliant live music and a great atmosphere created by fellow ski fanatics all enjoying a good time, while venues like the Arena Bar host regular DJ sets and themed parties that are quite simply wild!
Facilities in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is packed with all the holiday-making facilities you need for an incredible winter stay. We’re talking a modern lift system, excellent ski schools like Blue Tomato and Element3 that offer lessons for all ages and abilities in multiple languages, the incredible The ErlebnisSennerei leisure centre with wellness areas and an indoor pool, top-quality rental shops and specialist snowboard stores that cater specifically to freestyle enthusiasts... Phew, we could go on!
Dining options range from casual schnitzel huts to gourmet restaurants, with many mountain huts serving “feed me now” traditional cuisine. The pedestrianised village centre offers a great selection of shops and boutique stores, while regular shuttle buses conveniently connect all areas of the resort. Medical facilities include a doctor's office and physiotherapy centre, and the tourist office organises weekly events and activities for fun-filled after-ski adventures.
Facilities for children in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is exceptionally well-equipped for family ski holidays, offering comprehensive facilities for children of all ages. In particular, the Kinderschneealm on the Ahorn provides a perfect learning environment for young skiers, with magic carpets, fun obstacles and patient instructors all at the ready for a day of fun. Several ski schools offer specialised children's programs from age 3 upwards – many with English-speaking instructors. Plus, family-friendly hotels like the Kinderhotel Kramerwirt provide excellent childcare services and facilities including playrooms and children's pools.
The separate Ahorn ski area features gentle, sunny slopes ideal for family skiing, while the resort maintains safe slow zones in busy areas. Beyond skiing, children will love the toboggan runs, ice skating rink and weekly torchlight descents that bring the magic of the slopes back down to resort. Many restaurants offer early children's menus and high chairs, making dining out stress-free for parents.
Why choose a ski holiday to Mayrhofen with Erna Low?
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.
Mayrhofen is a beautiful traditional Austrian mountain resort with the fabulous ski area easily accessible once on the lifts out of the valley.
Jane Bolton, Product Director
