North Tyrol's Best Ski Resorts and the Perfect Gear for the Alps
Can a Pair of Colorado Skis Compete?
Tucked away in the heart of the Austrian and German Alps, North Tyrol is known around the world for its world-class ski resorts. I'm an avid skier who has had the privilege of spending about half my year just a short drive from the area.
As a result, I've had countless pre-sunrise wake-up calls to load up my gear and make the trip down to the mountains. As someone who fell in love with skiing in Colorado, I wondered how a pair of locally-owned Shepherd 110s from Romp would hold up in Europe. After a couple years of self-proclaimed research, allow me to share with you the best ski resorts in North Tyrol and how a pair of American-made skis compete.
The Best Ski Resorts in North Tyrol
With unbeatable alpine views, reliable snow conditions, and traditional mountain villages, this region is a dream destination for winter sports. Remember, Europe generally uses the color “blue” to signify what many North American resorts consider “green” runs. Additionally, “red” runs take on the typical rating of “blue” in the U.S. and Canada. All that to say, let's explore some of the best ski resorts North Tyrol has to offer.
St. Anton am Arlberg
With over 300 km of terrain, St. Anton am Arlberg is truly a skier's paradise. For those who spent their lives dreaming of "that Big European Ski Trip" – St. Anton is where you need to be. The resort offers challenging slopes, excellent off-piste opportunities, and a lively après-ski scene. It's easy to see why St. Anton is often referred to as the "Cradle of Alpine Skiing."
A frequent host of the World Cup, St. Anton boasts some of the most challenging runs in the Alps, including the infamous "Fang piste". However, there are also plenty of beginner and intermediate runs, making it suitable for all levels of skiers.
Where to Stay
It should come as no surprise that lodging in this gem of the Alps comes at a premium. However, there are still affordable options available, such as the family-run Hotel Garni Alpenland. For those looking to spend on luxury, try the renowned five-star Hotel Tannenhof.
Where to Après-ski
Krazy Kanguruh is known throughout the world as one of the best après-ski in all of the Alps. This legendary bar has been entertaining skiers since 1965 and is the oldest bar in St. Anton. Be warned – you'll still have about 10 km to ski down after your drinks! Other popular après-ski spots include the MooserWirt and Das Basecamp.
Sölden
One of the best places to catch views of alpine ski pros like Marco Odermatt and Mikaela Shiffrin, Sölden is known for its challenging terrain and energetic après-ski scene. With 144 km of slopes, it’s one of the largest ski areas in Austria and offers plenty of variety for riders of all levels.
On non-competition days, you can try your hand at one of the region’s most iconic World Cup routes. Or, tackle the 'Big Three' peaks of Gaislachkogl, Tiefenbachkogl, and Schwarze Schneid. This route offers skiers a nearly 50 km ride.
Note that when driving to Sölden, you’ll have the option to buy your lift ticket at a tollway-like stop. We suggest purchasing your ticket here to avoid long lines at the base.
Where to Stay
Due to the elevation of the mountain, you'll need to make a 30-minute drive down to find a place to stay. The town of Sölden is energetic and caters to a wide variety of visitors. If you're looking for a budget-friendly lodging option, consider Pension Edelweiss, which offers a great breakfast. For a touch of opulence, try Das Central and its impressive rooftop sauna.
Where to Après-ski
Sölden is a party town. You'll dance the night away at iconic après-ski spots like Fire & Ice Sölden and Katapult Sölden. For something a bit more laid-back, try the Harley Davidson-themed Black & Orange Rock Bar or Chris & Co's Irish pub.
Stubai Glacier
Stubai Glacier's 63 km of runs are nothing to scoff at. Located just 45 minutes from Innsbruck, this resort offers a range of slopes for all levels and impressive views of the surrounding glaciers. Plus, it's slightly cheaper than its other Austrian competitors. The resort area mainly offers red and blue runs, but there are a handful of black diamonds and 14 off-piste areas.
A highlight of Stubai Glacier is its traditional mountain huts. The eight restaurant and bar areas feel very "Old World" and offer hearty Austrian dishes and warm Glühwein (mulled wine) to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Where to Stay
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses located near the resort area, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Some popular choices include Alpenhotel Tirolerhof, Sporthotel Neustift, and Hotel Stubaierhof. Note that due to how high the glacier is, most hotels are about a 15-20 minute drive away from the first gondola.
Where to Après-ski
While not as lively as some of the other resorts on this list, Stubai Glacier still offers a fun après-ski scene. The Schneekristall Pavillon, located on the first gondola stop, is always worth a drink or two. Plus, it has a retractable roof that can be pulled back on bluebird days.
Additionally, the Alpensporthotel Mutterberg is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders to grab a drink and soak up some sun on the base station. For something more low-key, head to one of the mountain huts near the bottom of the slopes for some traditional après-ski snacks like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) and hot cocoa.
Zugspitze
The German Alps are often overlooked for their Austrian cousins. However, Zugspitze, also known as the "Top of Germany," is well worth an endeavor on your North Tyrol ski adventure. At 9,718 ft, the Zugspitze is another skier's paradise.
What is particularly fun about the Zugspitze is the multiple ways to ascend the mountain. Skiers can take the massive 3,213-metre gondola or ride the historic cogwheel train. The train was constructed between 1928 and 1930. Riders can catch the train near the Zugspitze gondola or even downtown Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Either way, riders will be treated to stunning views of Lake Eibsee as they make their way up the mountain.
The ski runs at Zugspitze are well-suited to intermediate skiers. Those newer to the slopes will still find plenty of opportunities for groomed blue and red routes. On the other hand, advanced skiers, with the proper safety equipment, can enjoy many unmarked powder off-piste areas.
Where to Stay
The dual city of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a central location that can reach both Zugspitze and the Garmisch-Classic ski area. This traditional Bavarian village comes to life during the holiday season with its intimate Christkindlmarket market. Additionally, the town is just a short drive away from historic Oberammergau, home to the famous Passion Play.
Hotel Rheinischer Hof is a solid option for couples, small families, and solo travelers. If you happen to be a US military ID card holder, the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is perfect for those traveling with children.
Where to Après-ski
There aren't a lot of Après-ski options on the Zugspitze itself. Instead, you'll want to make your way back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen to explore the local bar scene. Some fan-favorite places to party include Peaches Cocktail Bar and The Irish Pub.
Garmisch-Classic
Garmisch-Classic serves everyone from young families taking their first lesson to pros looking for black diamonds. Note that there are two ticket options. A lift ticket for the Hausberg will be more than sufficient for true beginners. Intermediate and advanced skiers will want to get their hands on the Classic lift ticket that includes the Alpspitze ski area.
With over 40 km of ski runs, the Garmisch-Classic is a perfect option for those looking to explore different terrain. The area also has several restaurants and huts scattered around the mountain, offering traditional cuisine and après-ski options. Plus, its not far from Neuschwanstein Castle.
Where to Stay
Like the Zugspitze, Hotel Rheinischer Hof and the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort easily serve the Garmisch-Classic ski area. Other well-rated options include the centuries-old Atlas Grand Hotel and the luxurious Obermühle 4*S Boutique Resort. However, there are many lodging options scattered between Garmisch and Partenkirchen that are suitable for a variety of needs and budgets.
Where to Après-ski
The Hexenkesselschneebar (accessible with the Classic ticket) is the place to party on the mountain. This outdoor hut continuously plays 80s pop music and serves hot drinks like Bombardinos, beer, and snacks.
There are a few other food and drink spots scattered throughout the mountain, but Hexenkesselschneebar is the clear favorite. After a long day on the slopes, you'll be just minutes away from downtown Garmisch, where you can continue the party at the aforementioned Peaches or Irish Pub.
What Equipment Do You Need to Ski in North Tyrol?
The idea of carrying your skis on a trans-Atlantic journey may seem daunting. I get it; there are a lot of unknowns, and it can seem like a hassle. I've both rented skis in Europe and brought my own skis from Chicago multiple times. However, bringing your own pair wins out. Every. Time.
That said, you may be wondering what type of skis are best to have on hand. While I generally bring multiple pairs of skis to North Tyrol, the Shepherd 110s from Romp are hard to beat. Based in Crested Butte, Colorado, Romp skis are handmade and designed well for the deep powder of North Tyrol.
Romp's production manager, Eligh Purvis, said, "Custom Romp Skis provides skiers with the tools that lead to a more creative, exhilarating, and meaningful skiing experience." And as someone who has tested these skis on North Tyrol's diverse terrain, I'd have to agree.
To begin my most recent trip to North Tyrol, I was riding on a different pair of skis. After some fresh snow, I decided it was time to hop on the Shepherd 110s.
Boy, am I glad I did.
Instantly, my experience on the slopes was elevated. I was faster, more in control, and felt like I could take on any terrain the routes through at me. What is particularly great about the Shepherd 100s is how diverse they are.
To me, they're technically a powder ski. Yet, they're slim enough to handle traditional all-mountain terrain. This functionality made dipping in and out of piste areas easy as pie. All that to say, if you're looking for a solid ski that can handle North Tyrol's powder and diverse terrain, I highly recommend checking out Romp's Shepherd 110s.
