The heartland of alpine winter sports

Western Austria is home of some of the finest winter sports regions in the world. Located in the center of the Alps, wedged right between Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Italy, the state of Vorarlberg boasts itself as the premier skiing location in the country. The town of St. Anton goes as far as proclaiming itself as the "Cradle of Alpine Skiing". And rightfully so! Situated below the namesake mountain of Arlberg, the region boasts 94 ski lifts, 340 kilometres of artificial and 200 kilometres of natural ski runs. A 4.3 kilometres long sledge track traverses a height difference of 500 meters and offers artificial light, for best use during the shorter days of winter. Most prominent among the winter sports are of course skiing and snowboarding. The large range of tracks offers many different experiences for winter sports enthusiasts of all skill ranges. Ski Mountaineering offers a nice change of pace, with 10 tracks dedicated to this purpose.



Whether you bring your own equipment or not doesn't matter, because ski hire in St. Anton is not a problem. Shops like Sport Alber offer ski rental in St Anton, as well as in the nearby village of Pettneu. For those who want to ski or snowboard, there are few places in the world that come close to Arlberg. 340 kilometres of artificial tracks offer challenge and enjoyment for everyone from beginner to veteran. 200 kilometres of natural tracks welcome those who like steep slopes, deep-snow skiing and action packed snowboarding. For snowboarders there's another "Schmankerl" - as Austrians call special treats: Stanton Park. Stanton Park has established itself as a world-class freestyle snowboarding location. The park is located near the Rendl summit station and offers slightly altered courses each year. Three tracks allow snowboarders to blow off some steam, at a difficulty level they feel comfortable with. Additional tracks and courses are open to anyone at any time, for some freestyle action. It's no surprise that Stanton Park has hosted a number of prestigious competitions over the years.



Attached to ski rental in St Anton are of course skiing and snowboarding schools, where beginners can learn under professional supervision. If you feel up to the task, you can even learn cross country skiing, to enjoy the less crowded natural tracks and a view not everyone gets to see. The personnel is happy to answer any questions regarding tracks, equipment and events in the region. A little less known, but no less worth a visit, is the winter sports region of Tyrol. Located to the east of Arlberg, it too is situated in the centre of the Alps. The capital of Innsbruck has become known as the "capital of alpine winter sports". Whether you want to ride the tracks every day or just want to make a daytrip or two, Innsbruck is a great starting location for both. For those who don't like the big city, the Montafon and the world-famous Kitzbühel valleys offer alternatives. Infrastructure is about on par with Arlberg, though many agree that the landscape and sheer amount of tracks in Arlberg simply can't be matched. Personal tastes differ though, so you're best advised to visit both and decide for yourself.

Kitzbühel is the more exclusive of both locations, offering highest quality hotels and spas and a quieter atmosphere. Montafon caters to travel groups and families, offering a more casual and relaxed attitude for those who're in primarily for the fun, not the sportsmanship. Both regions offer services comparable to ski schools and ski hire in St. Anton, so there is no need to make any compromises in this regard.