St. Anton am Arlberg Resort Guide - Real Reviews From Real Skiers
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220,849 resort ratings from real skiers
Expert Analysis & Reviews

The Skiers' Guide to St. Anton am Arlberg

Top Rated for
4.79 (182 Ratings)
Après-Ski
4.70 (187 Ratings)
Lift Efficiency
4.64 (33 Ratings)
Snowboarders
4.61 (44 Ratings)
Experts
4.58 (98 Ratings)
Advanced
4.55 (187 Ratings)
Overall Rating
Ranked
27th
of 230 ski resorts
Overall Rating
4.55
From 187 Reviews
141
Total Runs
1304
Bottom Elevation
2811
Top Elevation
301
Skiable Terrain
Ski ResortsEuropeAustriaSt. Anton am Arlberg

St. Anton Overview

Known for its schnitzels, steins and legendary freeride ski terrain, St Anton am Arlberg is a bucket-list winter sports holiday for many. There’s a consistently deep snowpack, which draws in the powderhounds year after year, and a world-renowned après scene that is both wild and wonderful. Sitting 1304m up in the Tyrolean Alps, it has been connected to the colossal ski area of Arlberg since the 2016/17 installation of four connecting gondolas, which takes riders over to neighbouring Lech and Zürs.

Referred to as the ‘cradle of Alpine skiing,’ the quaint Tyrolean village of St Anton was just another farming stronghold until 1880, when a Norwegian engineer was based here to consult on the construction of the Arlberg tunnel. It was the curious way he travelled to work that the villagers marvelled over, using two wooden planks strapped to his feet. However, it wasn’t until 1901 that the Ski Club Arlberg was founded and people were really convinced. Then, the son of a local cheesemaker went on to become the ‘Father of modern Day Skiing,’ Hannes Schnieder, born in Stuben am Arlberg, quickly progressed from an enthusiastic 13 year old watching someone ski for the first time, to the pioneer of the Arlberg technique. Innovative from the get-go, St Anton soon introduced a ski lift in 1937, The Galzigbahn, which still stands today (albeit slightly more developed) in all its impressive architectural glory.

Much of the resort also featured as the filming location for the 2011 film Chalet Girl, as well as a Jamiroquai music video and a handful of vintage ski films - today the main draws are the advanced-level skiing and lively après.

Our Snomad community rates St. Anton exceptionally highly, with an overall rating of 4.55/5. The resort scores particularly well for après-ski (4.79/5), expert terrain (4.61/5), and lift efficiency (4.70/5).

"Only great things to say about St. Anton am Arlberg. Ski school is world class. With 85 lifts and more than 300km of slopes, great apres ski, friendly locals and delicious food, it is a bucket list ski trip. Lift fees are surprisingly affordable compared to the US/Canada."
Natalie
advanced skier
"Amazing resort with a wide expanse of runs for all levels of rider, nice freestyle park but was lacking some intermediate features. All slopes were nicely groomed and the off piste was nice at the top but was lacking snow near the bottom when I went."
Alastair
expert skier
"Always a good time in St Anton. There are some great expeditions along the valleys to Lech, Warth etc. but also lots to explore locally. Big fan of Rendl. I didn't understand the appeal of apres until I came here - it's another level!"
Dan
intermediate skier
Ranked Highly For
icon for Après-Ski
Après-Ski
1st of 223 worldwide
icon for Snowboarders
Snowboarders
9th of 91 worldwide
icon for Experts
Experts
16th of 102 worldwide
icon for Advanced
Advanced
17th of 174 worldwide

The skiing in St. Anton

The fifth largest ski area in the world, Alberg caters to all riders. The Arlberg Card (which covers St. Anton, Lech, Zürs, Stuben and St. Christoph) grants access to 340km of ski runs between the altitudes of 1300m and 2800m. In short, riders of all abilities will have their needs met here.

In St Anton itself there’s 127km of pistes, reaching an altitude of 2,811m. There’s skiing on both sides of the valley, which makes for great views and plenty of piste to explore. The grading is higher here, so what is marked as a black in France is actually more like a red here, which is why it’s not strictly recommended for beginners. That being said though, the runs closer to the village are more mellow, with learn-to-ski and family-orientated facilities based lower down in Nasserein. Plenty of members in the Snomad community have either learned here or visited as a beginner, so don’t let the general consensus put you off.

For experts, the aptly named Fang piste is the steepest, situated below Gampen. However, the off-piste riding is the real draw here, with marked but unpatrolled routes all over the map. If you’re looking to really get off the beaten track, there’s some famous lines down from the top of the Valluga gondola station, but be sure to get a guide if you’re hitting those.

If you want to rack up some serious ski miles, you can complete the Run of Fame, an 85km long ski circuit that takes you through the entire Arlberg region. You can begin from almost anywhere, but there are two official routes: South, from St. Anton/Rendl in the direction of Warth, or North, from Warth to St Anton.

Much of the resort is south facing, which means mornings can be icy and afternoons really chopped up or bumpy depending on the time in the season. Ultimately though, St Anton has a great reputation for fresh powder snow and also has a sophisticated snow-making system, so the conditions shouldn’t be too much of an issue at any point throughout the season.

The terrain earns high marks from our users for groomed runs (4.55/5) and off-piste opportunities (4.46/5). While the resort caters to all abilities, it truly shines for intermediate (4.46/5), advanced (4.58/5), and expert skiers (4.61/5).

For powder enthusiasts, St. Anton delivers with a powder rating of 4.24/5. Lizzy, an expert snowboarder, shared that "I had my best powder rides here. They get a lot of snow in St. Anton and the possibilities are endless as it is a big resort."

"Probably not a resort to learn if you have not skied before but a vast ski area for all other abilities. The area attracts all types from ski bums to royalty with prices to match. The majority of restaurants have a great traditional atmosphere with friendly staff. "
Peter
advanced skier
"Huge snowpark, lots of off piste terrain. I had my best powder rides here. They get a lot of snow in st. Anton and the possibilities are endless as it is a big resort."
Lizzy
expert snowboarder
"St Anton is a good resort if you want to push yourself. The skiing is demanding compared to a lot of resorts. The skiing school is very good well above average . It has some great off piste lift served with some great ski routes"
Nicholas
advanced skier
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Eating out in St. Anton

The great part about St Anton being a world-renowned resort is that there’s plenty of choice when it comes to eating out, both on the mountain and in the town itself. There are plenty of huts on the slopes equipped with sun terraces and a choice of either self-service or a la carte arrangements, meaning you can stop during the day and refuel easily.

If you’ve booked a hotel, chances are that you’ll be on a half-board basis with your evening meal included, but if you want to sample some local cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Bodega Bar is known for fantastic Spanish tapas, Dinner Club offers Asian fusion cuisine and Galzig Bistrobar specialises in Italian dishes and great steaks. The streets are literally lined with international offerings, meaning everyone in your group (even the Sushi fan) will be satiated.

"Excellent infrastructure, excellent restaurants and bars."
Robert
intermediate skier
"St. Anton is an amazing authentic Austrian ski resort. Nice restaurants on the slopes and in town. Amazing after ski and soooo funny, you need visit Moosevirt,"
Carine Sofi
advanced skier
"Amazing apres ski, some of the best in Europe! Lovely town with a nice mix of restaurants, shops and bars."
Nicole
intermediate skier

Après-Ski in St. Anton

Not only is St. Anton visually picture-perfect with a huge network of marked ski routes, it’s a mecca for après ski and is home to two of the world’s most famous post-ski bars, Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh. However, your first stop after being on the mountain all day will probably be the sun-soaked terrace of Heustadl. You can also grab a decent bite to eat here (because we all know you’re not making it back for dinner.)

The two most famous après bars are the enjoyably named Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh. Both of these venues are NOT the place to go if you’re looking for a relaxed drink, as they are often crowded and known for their party atmosphere. At Mooserwirt, the party stops at around 8pm, when you can make the call as to whether you’re in a fit enough state to ride the short distance back down to town - fear not though, there’s a paved pathway that leads down from the back.

If you’d rather get comfortable and cosy, and be able to sip on your drink without fear of it being sent flying by a rogue arm, Eisbar Basecamp has an exclusive feel that will satisfy the goldilocks of the group - it’s not too busy, the music isn’t too loud and the clientele aren’t too rowdy.

"This is a busy resort and the Apres is second to none. Great choice of different slopes. Just watch out for the long run back into town."
Antony
intermediate skier
"Amazing holiday with lots of après activities - ski by the Chalet Girl Chalet or hit Bar Cuba for a love juice. Goulash at base camp and party at Taps. Great ski, great après, great resort."
Cal
intermediate skier
"I love St. Anton, it has something for everyone but in particular for people who love après ski. It has a great vibe and ski area. There can sometimes be a bit of a queue when trying to get over to Zurs / Lech"
Kerryn
advanced skier

St. Anton For Families

St Anton is equipped with a vast menu of things to do for both families and non-skiers. Indoor activities for families include bowling, trampolining, climbing, escape rooms and tennis, while outdoor activity options include tobogganing, ice skating, paragliding, curling, sleigh riding and getting out and about with the huskies.

Non-skiers can also enjoy all of these of course, along with yoga, swimming and spa days at the Arlberg WellCom, where saunas and steam rooms, a gym, a swimming pool and a menu of treatments are available.

"The green and blue runs are very family friendly, and the off-pistes are no joke, haha.There are bars to drink and grab a bite all over the mountain. You can grab a beer at the panorama bar overlooking the ski park. The apre ski culture is very fun and lively, it was truly a memorable time at St. Anton!"
Noyemi Ohanyan
advanced skier
"St. Anton and the linked region are a paradise for advanced skiers, but still fine for those learning, especially with such great ski schools"
Patrick
advanced skier
"Having skied and lived in St Anton for 2 years, the village has a wealth of facilities for familys including an amazing leisure centre. The ski terrain is challenging and caters for all levels"
Becky P
expert skier

Accommodation in St. Anton

The resort of St Anton encompasses the villages of St Jakob, St Christoph and Stuben-am-Arlberg, so accommodation is spread out throughout them all in the form of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering - fear not though, it’s all connected by a short bus ride.

If you want to be as central as possible, opt to stay in St Anton itself, near to the Galzig gondola. Be warned though, this is also the epicentre of après and partying, so probably not the best choice for families. The quieter end at Nasserein is better if you’re looking for a relaxing environment. Another quieter option is Stuben, which has retained its village feel.

For high-end, exclusive ski-in and ski-out vibes, St Christoph is a popular choice and is definitely more sedate than St Anton. While everywhere here has a reputation for being expensive, (it is Austria, after all) you can easily find something to suit your needs and budget.

"Awesome skiing and great accommodation options. Lots to do in the evening, including for non-skiers as well. Food was great too!"
Barnaby
advanced skier
"Great range of accommodation from family run B&Bs to luxury hotels with spa and pools. Pistes incredible and with access to whole of Ski Arlberg you'll never be bored"
Ellena
advanced skier
"Accommodation js expensive but can find cheaper places a short bus ride out of the town in places like Flirche. Overall fantastic resort."
Ishaan
expert skier

St. Anton am Arlberg Pros: Why the Snomad Community Loves It

Based on our user reviews, these are the top 5 favourite aspects of St. Anton am Arlberg:
  1. The world-class après-ski scene - Many users specifically highlight Mooserwirt and Krazy Kangaruh as legendary spots. Shane, an expert skier, calls it "the best APRÈS in the alps bar none" while numerous reviewers mention it's what makes St. Anton truly special.
  2. Extensive off-piste terrain - Advanced and expert skiers/snowboarders consistently praise the accessible powder opportunities. Lizzy, an expert snowboarder, shares: "I had my best powder rides here. They get a lot of snow in St. Anton and the possibilities are endless."
  3. The vast interconnected ski area - The ability to ski between St. Anton, Lech, Zürs, and other villages in the Arlberg region is frequently mentioned. As Hans, an advanced skier, notes: "Great place to ski, slopes are well prepared, lot of options for beginners and experts."
  4. Efficient lift system - Several users praise how well the resort handles the volume of skiers. Nicholas, an intermediate skier, calls it "great lift system and a large ski area."
  5. Mountain restaurants and food quality - The on-mountain dining receives considerable praise. Nicholas, an advanced skier, mentions "The food in the mountain restaurants is good with alpine charm," while others highlight specific restaurants like Hospiz Alm for memorable lunches.

St. Anton am Arlberg Cons: What Snomad Skiers Say Could Be Better

Based on our user reviews, these are the top complaints about St. Anton am Arlberg:
  1. Overcrowding and bottlenecks - Multiple reviewers highlight the busy slopes, especially during peak holiday periods. One user mentions experiencing "waits of 20-30 mins in many of the first few lifts" while another points out that "certain runs that everyone has to use to get home are very busy and full of moguls from lunchtime."
  2. Not beginner-friendly - This is a consistent theme across many reviews. As Peter, an advanced skier, states: "Probably not a resort to learn if you have not skied before." Neil adds that it's "not a resort for beginners" with "limited wide cruising pistes" that are often "challenging for intermediates."
  3. Difficult navigation - Some users find the ski area challenging to navigate compared to other resorts. One reviewer mentions they "didn't find it as easy to navigate as some of the other big ski areas such as Tignes/Val d'Isere."
  4. Increasing prices - Mick, an advanced skier, notes that "prices have risen considerably in the last few years," while Hamish believes that the booming après scene "has ticked the price of accommodation up."
  5. Weather dependency - Several users mention that poor weather conditions can significantly impact the experience. A few reviewers encountered warm temperatures that affected snow quality, with one mentioning "8-10 degrees celsius up the mountain" preventing them from experiencing the famous off-piste opportunities.

Recent Reviews

St. Anton is a world famous resort but maybe to its own detriment. When we were there in March, the resort was very busy (accidentally timed with Belgium school holidays although it is difficult to avoid holidays from all European countries) There are bottlenecks to get up and out the town and getting going for the day felt like a very slow process with waits of 20 - 30 mins in many of the first few lifts. Vast ski area so you can eventually get away from the crowds and explore the huge amount of terrain. Unfortunately when we were there it was 8-10 degrees celsius up the mountain so we were unable to test out the freeride opportunities which it is famous for. Fun to check out the different areas from Lech-Zurs to Warth. We didn't find it as easy to navgate as some of the other big ski areas such as Tignes / Val d'isere.

The town itself has a good vibe with lots of accommodation options and a varied choice of restaurants. Lots of options for après too from quieter spots to rowdier party places like KK and Mooserwirt. Not a hidden gem but I would give it another go during a quiet time of the season and after a powder dump!
Family Friendliness
Off-Piste
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Tree Skiing
Mogul Fields
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Accommodation Options
Stayed 9 nights skied 5 days and had a fantastic time. Endless terrain, mountain tops, runs, options, foods, drinks and fun! Was with friends for this trip, but lots of families and very family friendly.
Family Friendliness
Off-Piste
Snow Parks
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Accommodation Options
Probably not a resort to learn if you have not skied before but a vast ski area for all other abilities. The area attracts all types from ski bums to royalty with prices to match. The majority of restaurants have a great traditional atmosphere with friendly staff.
Family Friendliness
Off-Piste
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Ski School Quality
Accommodation Options

St. Anton am Arlberg Resort Stats

Ski Terrain
61Beginner Runs
56Intermediate Runs
24Advanced Runs
9 kmLongest Run
301 kmSkiable Terrain
32 kmsSnow making
Elevation
2811 mTop
1304 mBottom
1507 mVertical Drop
Lifts
15Gondolas / Cable Cars
45Chairlifts
28Surface Lifts
Lift Pass Costs
€1114Season pass
€4016 days
€751 day
Weather
372 cmAverage annual snowfall

St. Anton am Arlberg Travel Information

Airports
95min drive100KMsInnsbruck Airport (INN)
135min drive120KMsFriedrichshafen Airport (FDH)
Train Stations
5min drive1KMsSt. Anton am Arlberg

FAQs Skiers' Most Asked Questions

St. Anton am Arlberg FAQs: Skiers' Most Asked Questions

Is St. Anton am Arlberg snow-sure?

St. Anton isn't the most snow-sure resort in the Alps, but its reputation for reliable conditions is well-deserved. With a top elevation of 2,811m, it generally maintains good snow coverage from December through April. The resort receives substantial natural snowfall and has excellent snow-making capabilities to supplement when needed. Some Snomad users mention that late-season conditions can become slushy in lower areas, but higher slopes typically remain in good shape throughout the season.

What mountain range is St. Anton am Arlberg part of?

St. Anton am Arlberg is part of the Arlberg mountain range in the Austrian Alps. Located in western Austria's Tyrol region, this stunning area forms part of the Northern Limestone Alps. The resort sits in the heart of the Arlberg region, which is known for receiving abundant snowfall due to its unique geographical position between the northern and southern Alps.

When does the ski season start and end in St. Anton am Arlberg?

St. Anton's ski season typically runs from early December to late April, with mid-December to mid-April being the most reliable period for good snow conditions. One Snomad community member mentions skiing there in January when conditions were excellent for learning, while another enjoyed fantastic conditions in March despite some bottlenecks due to European school holidays. The resort's snowmaking capabilities help ensure a solid base, particularly for the busy Christmas and New Year period.

Is St. Anton am Arlberg good for beginners?

St. Anton is challenging for beginners, with a rating of 4.00/5 that reflects this. Many Snomad users mention the resort is better suited to intermediate and advanced skiers. As Peter, an advanced skier, notes: "Probably not a resort to learn if you have not skied before." The blues can be daunting and busy, especially later in the day. However, the ski schools are excellent, and there are some dedicated beginner areas, particularly in the neighbouring Lech area.

Is St. Anton am Arlberg good for intermediate skiers?

St. Anton am Arlberg is excellent for intermediate skiers, earning 4.46/5 for intermediates. The resort offers 56 intermediate runs within its vast 300km ski area. Several users mention the varied terrain pushes intermediate skiers to improve their skills.

Nicholas, an intermediate skier, praises the "fast transfers, great town with plenty of options for eating out, and a great lift system." Though some blues and reds can be challenging initially, the wide runs provide perfect practice for carving and skill progression.

Is St. Anton am Arlberg good for advanced skiers?

St. Anton am Arlberg is exceptional for advanced skiers, earning 4.58/5 for advanced skiing and 4.61/5 for expert terrain. Our users consistently praise its challenging runs and vast off-piste opportunities. Nicholas, an advanced skier, notes that "St Anton is a good resort if you want to push yourself. The skiing is demanding compared to a lot of resorts." The extensive terrain provides endless options for those looking to test their skills on steep slopes and powder fields.

Is St. Anton am Arlberg good for expert skiers?

St. Anton am Arlberg is absolutely brilliant for expert skiers, with a rating of 4.61/5 for experts. Our users consistently praise its challenging terrain and extensive off-piste options. Rain, an expert skier, notes it's "really good for advanced to expert skiers with loads of off-piste and marked terrain." The resort offers endless powder opportunities, steep runs, and adventurous itineraries. One Snomad community member mentioned that "the skiing is demanding compared to a lot of resorts" - making it perfect for those looking to push their limits.

Is St. Anton am Arlberg good for non-skiers?

While St. Anton is primarily known for its exceptional skiing, non-skiers can still enjoy their time there. The resort offers a beautiful Alpine town with charming shops and excellent restaurants. There's a fantastic leisure centre for relaxation, as well as winter walking paths. One Snomad community member noted, "The town has a good vibe with varied accommodation options and restaurants." The resort's lively après scene is accessible even without skiing, making it enjoyable for everyone in your group.

Is there snow at Christmas in St. Anton am Arlberg?

St. Anton generally has good snow coverage at Christmas, though it's not guaranteed. The resort has an extensive snowmaking system to supplement natural snow on the lower slopes. Our Snomad users report that the altitude (1,304m-2,811m) helps maintain conditions, especially higher up. One advanced skier mentioned having a "fantastic time" during the festive season with good snow conditions, while another noted reliable Christmas skiing, particularly on upper slopes. Definitely a solid bet for Christmas skiing.

Where should I stay in St. Anton am Arlberg and what type of accommodation is available?

St. Anton offers a range of accommodation options with most centred in the main village. Our users praise the variety, with many highlighting hotels like SportHotel for their quality half-board meals. For convenience, look for lodging near the Galzig or Rendl lifts to minimise morning walks.

The town centre provides excellent access to restaurants, shops and the famous après scene, while quieter options can be found in St. Christoph or Nasserein areas. As one Snomad community member noted, "close to Innsbruck Airport with fast transfers and plenty of options for eating out."

What's the best way to get to St. Anton am Arlberg?

The easiest way to reach St. Anton is via Innsbruck Airport (90km away), with direct transfers taking about 1 hour. Zurich Airport (200km) is another popular option with good train connections. Munich Airport (250km) works too but involves a longer transfer. Many international visitors take advantage of the excellent Austrian rail network, as St. Anton has its own train station in the centre of town. Private transfers and shuttle services are widely available from all three airports.