Writer: Christian Muda
Bad Gastein is one of Austria's most popular ski resorts, and it's not hard to see why. The area offers an impressive ski system that stretches across Bad Hofgastein and provides access to long, wide pistes as well as modern lifts. In addition, Sportgastein, a paradise for off-piste skiing, is just a short trip away.
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Table of contents
Lifts and ski area
Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein together have 17 lifts, including seven gondola lifts. The main lift Schlossalmbahn, a spacious 10-person gondola, takes you smoothly from the centre up the system. With a total of 82.7 km of piste skiing, dominated by red and black runs, the destination is perfect for those who like challenging skiing. However, beginners will find easier options in the Angertal Valley, where there are green and blue runs and a ski school.
One of the most impressive runs is the 10.4 km long slope in Bad Hofgastein - the longest in the Salzburg region. The lift pass is also valid in Sportgastein and Dorfgastein, which can be reached by bus (included in the lift pass).
Food and après-ski on the slopes
There are plenty of cosy Alpine huts and restaurants to take a break. Many serve classic Austrian dishes such as schnitzel, goulash and charcuterie boards. It may be worth booking a table or arriving early, as the restaurants fill up quickly at lunchtime.
Afterski starts early in Bad Gastein - in some places already at 13.00. Thanks to the long slopes and non-existent lift queues, legs get tired quickly, which makes a cold beer in the sun all the more appealing.
Accommodation and transport
Few hotels in Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein offer ski-in/ski-out, so it's worth checking the distance to the nearest lift and whether the hotel has its own shuttle. Staying near a ski bus may be the most convenient option.
We stayed at the newly built boutique hotel The Comodo which was a fantastic accommodation for those looking for a smaller hotel with beautiful views of the valley, nice rooms, really good food and a large spa. Read more about The Comodo here.
Ski season and snow conditions
The ski season runs from December to April, and with ski areas ranging from 860 metres to 2,686 metres, there is usually good snow. Sportgastein, which is the highest, also has a snow cannon system for secured slopes.
Alternative winter activities
If you want to do something other than skiing, there are several activities to choose from:
- Winter hiking - Trails such as the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Promenade offer beautiful views.
- Cross-country skiing - 35 km of trails, with the best in Sportgastein.
- Ice climbing - Try climbing a frozen waterfall wall.
- Toboggan - Ideal for families with children.
- Thermal bath - The Felsentherme offers relaxation in hot springs, both indoors and outdoors.
Lift passes and prices
A Gastein Ski Amadé pass is valid in Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein, Sportgastein & Dorfgastein Prices vary by season and number of days, but a 6-day pass is around €300-350 for adults.
How to get to Bad Gastein
The easiest way is to fly to Salzburg and then take the train directly to Bad Gastein. The journey goes through beautiful Alpine landscapes and takes about 1.5 hours. Read more about the trip to Gastein here.
Summary
Bad Gastein & Bad Hofgastein is a dream destination for skiers and winter lovers. It combines great skiing, delicious restaurants, lively après-ski and relaxing hot springs. Book accommodation with good transport facilities to the lift for a smooth ski holiday.
The trip to Gastein was made in co-operation with the Gastein Tourist Office. Thoughts and opinions as usual my own!
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Christian Muda
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Netti Starby says:
What beautiful it is there and perfect for ski lovers. The hotel looks amazing and such great tips. Hugs <3
25 February 2025 - 6:17
Yossu says:
I am not fond of skiing and am not a winter lover, but I can imagine that Bad Gastein could still be a dream destination for me. A hike there during the summer surrounded by beautiful mountains I would not say no to.
25 February 2025 - 16:27
JoY says:
Bad Gastein is a beautiful valley, have only been there in the summer. It looks lovely with such long slopes but for my part, the white must stay away now that it has turned green.
25 February 2025 - 18:50