A Stones Throw Away: How to Access Austria’s Largest Resorts on a Budget

We all know that skiing can be an expensive holiday, especially if you want to visit some of the top resorts. But what if there was a way to cut costs? With the cost-of-living crisis ever present in 2024, here is a list of smaller towns and villages, near to bigger resorts, that give you the option to access some of Austria’s top resorts, without the need for a 5 star budget.

See / Kappl (Paznaun Valley) – Part of the Ischgl Ski Area

See and Kappl are picturesque alpine villages located in the Paznaun Valley, just a short distance from the renowned Ischgl ski resort. While Ischgl is famous for its high-energy après-ski scene, See and Kappl offer a more tranquil, family-friendly experience with their own smaller ski areas, perfect for those seeking a quieter base with easy access to the bustling Ischgl slopes.

https://www.kappl.com/en/winter/kappl-ski-area

Pettneu am Arlberg / St. Jakob am Arlberg – Close to St. Anton (20 minutes by ski bus)

Pettneu and St. Jakob am Arlberg are charming villages situated just outside the legendary St. Anton ski resort, one of Austria’s most famous skiing destinations. These villages provide a more budget-friendly accommodation option while still offering excellent access to the world-class slopes of St. Anton, known for both its challenging runs and vibrant après-ski.

https://www.stantonamarlberg.com/en/the-region-st-anton-am-arlberg/the-villages/pettneu-schnann

St. Johann in Tirol – Close to Kitzbühel and Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn

St. Johann in Tirol is an attractive market town located between the Kitzbühel Alps and the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. Though it has its own ski area, it's often overshadowed by the nearby glamorous Kitzbühel or the more expansive Skicircus area of Saalbach-Hinterglemm. However, it’s a hidden gem for those who prefer fewer crowds, lower prices, and more of a local vibe while still being close to major ski areas.

https://www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com/en/stjo/st-johann-in-tirol.html

Schwendau – Close to Mayrhofen (Zillertal Valley)

Schwendau is a peaceful village nestled in the Zillertal Valley, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling resort town of Mayrhofen. While Mayrhofen is known for its extensive skiing, lively après-ski scene, and events like Snowbombing, Schwendau offers a more laid-back and authentic Tyrolean village experience. It’s connected to the Mayrhofen ski area via the Horbergbahn lift, making it a convenient base for skiers and snowboarders who want easy access to the slopes without staying in the busy town centre.

https://www.tyrol.tl/en/tyrol/zillertal/schwendau/

Galtür - Close to Paznaun Ischgl

Galtür is a high-altitude village situated at the far end of the Paznaun Valley, just 10 km from the famous Ischgl ski resort. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and dramatic alpine scenery, Galtür offers an authentic Tyrolean experience with a strong focus on family-friendly skiing and outdoor activities. Its Silvretta Galtür ski area is less crowded than Ischgl, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back ski holiday while still being close to one of Austria's most famous ski resorts.

https://www.galtuer.com/en/winter

Längenfeld – Close to Sölden

Sölden is a high-energy, snow-sure resort famous for its glacier skiing and party scene. Längenfeld, a short drive away, offers a much more serene experience with thermal baths, beautiful alpine meadows, and a focus on wellness tourism. It’s ideal for travellers wanting to relax and recharge while still being within easy reach of Sölden’s extensive ski area.

https://www.oetztal.com/en/regions-villages/laengenfeld-region

So there you are, a way to have a 5 star ski holiday without the 5 star budget!

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