Why Obertauern Is One of the Alps’ Most Appealing Ski Destinations
When it comes to winter sports, one thing matters more than anything else: snow. And when it comes to reliable snowfall, few Alpine destinations can compete with Obertauern.
Snow, sunshine and skiing from November to May
Situated at an altitude of 1,740 metres in the heart of the Radstädter Tauern mountain range, Obertauern is widely regarded as Austria’s snowiest winter sports destination. The ski area reaches elevations of up to 2,313 metres, while the nearby villages of Untertauern, to the north, and Tweng, to the south, lie at 1,009 and 1,233 metres respectively.
Snow-covered peaks and a magnificent Alpine landscape create a spectacular winter setting, with excellent conditions typically lasting from November until early May.
One of Obertauern’s most distinctive features is its unique geographical layout. The surrounding mountains form a natural bowl around the village, with ski slopes facing in every direction. This gives skiers plenty of flexibility when planning their day, including the opportunity to follow the sunshine from one side of the mountain to another.
Yet Obertauern offers much more than excellent skiing. Its relaxed atmosphere, welcoming family-run hotels and lively après-ski scene are all part of its appeal. Hotels, restaurants and bars are known for their warm hospitality, creating an environment in which families with children feel particularly at home.
Ski-in/ski-out: From your hotel straight onto the slopes
One of Obertauern’s greatest advantages is the close proximity of accommodation to the ski area. At many hotels and guesthouses, the skiing day begins practically outside the front door. Simply put on your skis, glide a few metres and you are on the slopes. At the end of the day, you can ski almost all the way back to your accommodation.
This convenient ski-in/ski-out concept makes a winter holiday particularly relaxing. There is no need to drive to the lifts or look for parking every morning – your car can remain parked throughout your stay.
Accommodation to suit every taste and budget
Obertauern offers around 150 accommodation options, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to youth hostels, holiday apartments, private rooms and holiday homes. The selection includes two five-star hotels, ten four-star superior properties and numerous four- and three-star establishments. More affordable guesthouses and hostels provide additional options for visitors looking to enjoy the resort on a more modest budget.
Free public transport throughout SalzburgerLand
The Guest Mobility Ticket allows visitors to use public transport throughout the province of Salzburg from the moment they arrive and for the entire duration of their stay.
The ticket covers urban and regional buses, all S-Bahn services, regional and long-distance trains, as well as Salzburg Verkehr shuttle services across the province. It is a convenient way to explore the surrounding region without relying on a car.
26 lifts and a ski circuit in every direction
With 26 cable cars and ski lifts arranged around the village, Obertauern offers a compact and exceptionally well-connected ski area. Eleven access points provide convenient entry to the slopes from different parts of the resort, helping to distribute skiers and reduce waiting times at the lifts.
One of the resort’s signature features is the Tauernrunde, a circular ski route connecting all the main access points and allowing visitors to explore the entire ski area on skis. There are two ways to complete the circuit: the Red Tauernrunde runs clockwise, while the Green Tauernrunde follows the opposite direction. Both routes link the different sections of the resort, turning a day on the slopes into an enjoyable journey around Obertauern.
Ski pass prices for the 2026/27 winter season
For the 2026/27 winter season, a one-day adult ski pass in Obertauern costs €72. Visitors planning a longer stay can benefit from multi-day passes, with prices varying according to the season.
During peak season, a six-day ski pass costs €368, while a seven-day pass is priced at €413. More attractive rates are available during the low season, when a six-day pass costs €331 and a seven-day pass €372.
100 kilometres of skiing for every ability
With approximately 100 kilometres of prepared pistes, as well as plenty of opportunities for off-piste skiing, Obertauern caters to winter sports enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels.
According to the international piste classification, 61 kilometres are designated as easy blue runs, 35 kilometres as intermediate red runs and four kilometres as challenging black runs. Among the resort’s most famous challenges is Gamsleiten II, regarded as one of Europe’s steepest ski runs and a serious test even for highly experienced skiers.
This variety makes Obertauern an excellent destination for beginners as well as those looking to improve their technique. Gentle, wide slopes provide ideal conditions for learning, while the red and black runs offer plenty of excitement for more advanced skiers.
Families and groups of friends with different skiing abilities can therefore enjoy their holiday together, with everyone free to choose slopes that match their experience and confidence.
There is also an opportunity to enjoy skiing after dark. Twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays, the 1.5-kilometre Edelweissbahn run is illuminated for night skiing. This special experience is available to all skiers holding a ski pass valid for at least 1.5 days.
A resort that keeps getting better
I have been skiing in Obertauern for many years, and every winter season brings something new. The resort continues to develop and improve, while preserving the atmosphere and character that make it so appealing. We affectionately call it simply “Ober” – and one thing is certain: no matter how many times I return, it never gets boring.
