Obertauern – Overview
Obertauern is renowned for its snow reliability, high-altitude location, and unique place in film history, having hosted the Beatles during the 1965 filming of Help! But today, it’s most known as a premier ski destination with a ski-in, ski-out layout.
Located in the Salzburg region, Obertauern boasts 100km of slopes at 1,740 meters, making it one of Austria’s snowiest resorts. With 26 lifts and cableways, skiers can reach a high point of 2,313 meters, enjoying breath taking views.
While the resort caters to intermediate skiers with wide, mellow runs, it’s also ideal for beginners thanks to its gentle nursery slopes, reliably snow-covered throughout the season. For more advanced skiers, Obertauern offers challenging freeride areas with steep trails and cliffs.
The resort also has other unique features, including night skiing, snow-kiting, and even romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides, making it a versatile destination for all winter sports enthusiasts.
Obertauern is a great place for all skiers and snowboarders, from families to adventurers alike.
Obertauern – Ski Resort Highlights
Ski Resort Highlights
Obertauern – Ski Map & Pistes
Obertauern may not boast the highest vertical drop, but it makes up for this with an impressive 120km of ski trails, offering extensive horizontal skiing options. The resort’s lift system forms a colour-coded circuit called the Tauern Round, which can be skied in either direction.
Beginners can enjoy the "green circuit" (anti-clockwise), which includes five lifts and trails with gentle gradients, including the Zehnerkarspitz cable car. The Gamskar lift, accessible by chairlift, is a popular choice for first-time skiers.
Obertauern is well-known for its perfectly groomed pistes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for skiers, particularly novices. Intermediates will enjoy the "Pink Circuit" (clockwise), which covers around 30km of blue and red runs, totalling up to 90km when considering all possible routes.
Advanced skiers will find five black pistes with challenging mogul fields like Garnsleiten II. Cross-country skiers also have access to 7km of dedicated trails and a snow park for those into freestyle skiing.
Additionally, lift passes for Obertauern (valid for 1.5 days or more) also grant access to the Grosseck-Speiereck ski area in nearby Mauterndorf, about 15km away.
Lifts and Queues
Obertauern ski resort features a well-organised lift system, with 26 cable cars and lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and surface lifts. The lifts are distributed across the resort, ensuring smooth access to the slopes, and the ski circuit is colour-coded for easy navigation.
Queue times are generally manageable, as the resort has invested in lift efficiency, but some lifts may experience moderate delays during peak times. The resort is known for its seamless grooming of pistes, contributing to a smooth skiing experience across various terrain.
Special features
Obertauern offers a variety of unique features for skiers, including terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts and several off-piste areas for advanced riders. The resort also caters to snowboarding with designated zones and rails.
Accessibility for visitors with disabilities is a priority, with accessible lifts, ski programs, and accommodations available. The resort strives to provide an inclusive experience, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the slopes regardless of ability.
Additionally, ski schools and guides offer support for individuals with special needs, helping them easily navigate the resort.
Ski Area and Resort Map of Obertauern, Austria – Discover the Extensive Slopes and Ski Trails in One of Austria’s Premier Ski Destinations.
Obertauern – Off-Piste, Backcountry & Ski Touring
Obertauern is a solid destination for off-piste skiing, offering a variety of terrain despite its lower altitude compared to some of the highest Alpine resorts. With lifts reaching just under 2,500 meters, the resort is known for its impressive snow reliability.
For those willing to hike, the area provides high alpine couloirs and slopes with various aspects, ensuring good skiing conditions regardless of weather. While tree runs are sparse, which can limit visibility in poor weather, the resort maintains a strong reputation as a freeride destination, especially if you have a local guide to show you the best spots.
Obertauern also offers longer routes, including the descent to the nearby town of Untertauern, a challenging journey requiring a guide and subsequent drive back. Many ski schools in the area also organise ski-touring excursions for those looking to explore more off-piste terrain.
Off-piste skiing
Obertauern offers excellent off-piste skiing opportunities despite not being one of the highest resorts in the Alps. It features alpine forests for those willing to hike and diverse slopes across various aspects, ensuring good conditions regardless of weather. Though tree runs are limited, the resort's off-piste terrain is still well-regarded, especially with a guide.
The descent to Untertauern is a notable option for longer excursions, requiring a guide due to its complexity and the need for a return drive. Many ski schools in the area also offer ski-touring experiences, enhancing the off-piste options.
Backcountry skiing
Obertauern offers a variety of backcountry skiing possibilities. Access to alpine slopes facing several directions ensures good skiing conditions no matter the weather. Experienced skiers can find longer itineraries, such as the descent to Untertauern, which is best done with a guide due to the challenges involved, including a return drive.
Local ski schools offer guided excursions for those interested in ski touring, making backcountry access safer and more enjoyable.
Ski touring
Obertauern offers exciting ski touring possibilities, with terrain catering to beginners and experienced ski tourers. The resort's snow reliability and expansive alpine landscapes make it a popular choice for this type of skiing.
Ski tourers can explore routes that lead up to alpine couloirs and enjoy stunning views along the way. Guided tours are also available for those who want to venture into more challenging terrain or unfamiliar routes.
For those looking for specific routes, the resort offers ski touring excursions led by local experts who can help navigate the area safely. The nearby Grosseck-Speiereck ski area also offers some opportunities for ski touring, which is included in the Obertauern lift pass for longer itineraries. Be sure to check with local guides for up-to-date trail conditions and expert advice on the best routes for ski touring.
Guided tours
Obertauern Ski Resort offers an array of guided tours that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and families. These guided experiences enhance your time on the slopes, whether exploring untouched powder, improving your skills, or learning about the region's history and culture.
For those seeking alpine adventure, guided ski touring excursions provide access to pristine off-piste areas and high-altitude couloirs that are otherwise difficult to navigate. Freeride enthusiasts can join expert-led off-piste tours, offering the chance to carve through the resort's best powder fields while prioritising safety.
Beginners and families can take advantage of guided lessons through local ski schools, focusing on skill development and exploring beginner-friendly trails. For a unique twist, themed tours blend skiing with educational experiences, such as learning about Obertauern's history and alpine culture. Booking with certified guides is highly recommended for advanced terrain or specialised tours to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
A stunning snow-covered mountain landscape featuring chairlifts at Obertauern, Austria, capturing the essence of alpine adventure. Photo by Bernard Hermant, Unsplash.
Obertauern – Safety measures
Obertauern Ski Resort prioritises the safety of its skiers and snowboarders by implementing a comprehensive range of measures designed to create a secure environment on and off the slopes. With a focus on avalanche control, the resort employs advanced monitoring systems, conducts regular safety checks, and marks hazardous zones to keep freeride and off-piste areas safe.
Pistes are meticulously groomed and maintained, ensuring precise and reliable trails for all skill levels. The resort’s ski patrol teams are highly trained and strategically stationed to provide assistance in emergencies and oversee overall slope safety.
Additional safety initiatives include clear signage and markers across the resort to guide visitors and alert them to changing conditions. For those exploring challenging terrain, guided off-piste tours offer expertise and minimise risk. Beginners and intermediate skiers benefit from professional instruction and supervision provided by well-established ski schools.
To further enhance safety, Obertauern is equipped with first-aid stations and medical facilities to address injuries promptly. These well-rounded safety measures, efficient lifts, and clear communication make Obertauern a trusted and enjoyable destination for all skiing enthusiasts.
Obertauern – Environmental measures
Obertauern Ski Resort has implemented various environmental initiatives to preserve the pristine alpine landscape and promote sustainable tourism. These measures reflect a solid commitment to reducing the resort's ecological footprint while maintaining its natural beauty.
Energy efficiency is a priority, with renewable energy sources powering many facilities and a focus on reducing energy consumption throughout the resort. Snowmaking technology has been upgraded to use less energy and water, ensuring minimal environmental impact while maintaining excellent snow coverage.
Sustainable transportation options, such as shuttle services, are actively promoted to reduce traffic and emissions, creating a cleaner, more pedestrian-friendly environment.
The resort also emphasises waste management and recycling, encouraging hotels, restaurants, and businesses to adopt efficient recycling programs and responsible waste disposal practices. Obertauern protects its delicate alpine ecosystem by conserving local wildlife and vegetation, respecting protected areas, and limiting development in sensitive zones.
Additionally, a portion of ski pass revenues is allocated to environmental and community projects, supporting conservation and sustainable growth in the region. These thoughtful initiatives ensure that Obertauern remains a destination where visitors can enjoy world-class skiing while contributing to the preservation of the surrounding natural environment.
Kirchdorf – Family Skiing
Obertauern is an excellent destination for families, offering a range of skiing opportunities and activities tailored specifically for children. The resort features gentle nursery slopes, ideal for young beginners, and various ski schools that provide specialised lessons for kids.
Notable options include the Obertauern Ski School, which offers group and private lessons designed to build confidence and ensure safety, and other local ski schools with child-focused programs. Beyond the slopes, children can enjoy a dedicated snow park with playful features and winter play areas for tobogganing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
Family-friendly hotels enhance the experience, providing amenities like kids’ clubs and childcare services. With its blend of beginner-friendly slopes, engaging activities, and family-focused facilities, Obertauern is a top choice for introducing kids to the joys of skiing and winter sports so why not find a family friendly on Exploreo.
Festive Fondue Set with Christmas Decorations – Enjoy Traditional Austrian Cuisine in a Cosy Holiday Setting. Photo by Michael Pointner, Pixabay.
Obertauern – Restaurants, Bars & The Town
Restaurants
Obertauern boasts an impressive array of dining options for every palate, from fine dining establishments to laid-back mountain eateries. Visitors can savour traditional Austrian delicacies like schnitzel, goulash, and Kaiserschmarrn or explore international dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The resort has cosy mountain restaurants perfect for mid-ski meals and après-ski spots that pair lively atmospheres with cocktails and light bites. For those seeking something different, there’s even an American diner, the Lazy Flamingo, for a change of pace.
Whether you're in the mood for gourmet Tyrolean cuisine, casual Italian favourites, or hearty mountain fare with panoramic views, Obertauern's dining scene ensures a satisfying culinary adventure.
- Restaurant Seekarhaus
- Restaurant Obertauern
- Hochalmbahnen Restaurant
- Taverne
- Gamsleiten Restaurant
Après Ski
Obertauern is renowned for its vibrant après-ski scene, featuring a "ski après mile" with around 25 ski lodges and bars. Visitors can relax on large sun decks during the day, indulge in delicious food, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Tea dancing at venues like the Latsch’n Stubn or Lürzeralm Café becomes popular in the evenings, offering guests entertainment and traditional alpine charm. Later into the night, the Römer Bar and Hotel Edelweiss are bustling with activity, often featuring live music.
The Lürzeralm becomes a hub for night owls, transforming into a late-night venue with discotheques that stay open past midnight. This provides an exciting option for those looking for more action after hours.
- Latsch’n Stubn
- Lürzeralm
- Römer Bar
- Hotel Edelweiss
- Lürzeralm Discotheque
A picturesque winter scene of Andi's Skihotel, blanketed in fresh snow, set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains and a lush, tree-lined horizon in Obertauern, Austria.
Obertauern – Accommodation Options
Since 1942, Obertauern's development has been concentrated along the Tauern Pass road, which initially had a sparse and treeless landscape. The village's layout is somewhat spread out, but this works for skiers, as most accommodations offer direct access to the slopes.
Obertauern provides a diverse selection of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxurious hotels offering premium amenities to budget-friendly hostels, cosy bed-and-breakfasts, and private chalets. Many of these options feature ski-in and ski-out access, making it easy to hit the slopes directly from your doorstep.
Several apartments and self-catering accommodations offer flexibility and privacy for those seeking a more independent stay. Staying within the resort ensures convenient access to the ski lifts, après-ski venues, and other amenities, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the vibrant alpine atmosphere.
Alternatively, nearby accommodations can provide a quieter experience and better value but may require a short commute to the slopes and town centre. Families will find plenty of family-friendly options, including hotels with kids’ clubs, spacious rooms, and proximity to beginner slopes. For eco-conscious travellers, Exploreo offers a range of sustainable accommodations in Obertauern, allowing you to book a stay that aligns with your environmental values.
Obertauern – Activities
Obertauern offers exciting activities and tours to complement its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Whether carving down pristine slopes, enjoying a serene ride through snowy landscapes, or seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s something for everyone.
The resort provides unique ways to embrace the winter wonderland, from snowshoeing through breath taking alpine scenery to trying your hand at snow-kiting. For those looking to continue skiing into the evening, night skiing lets visitors enjoy the slopes under the stars. Exploreo also curates sustainable and eco-friendly activities, ensuring your adventures contribute to preserving Obertauern's natural beauty.
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Snowshoeing
- Snow-Kiting
- Night Skiing
Other Activities
After an exhilarating day on the slopes at Obertauern, visitors can unwind and explore a range of activities that cater to all interests. The town offers everything from festive outdoor fun to relaxing indoor retreats, ensuring something suits everyone.
Families can enjoy ice skating under the open sky or a thrilling tobogganing experience on floodlit runs. Those seeking relaxation can take advantage of the resort’s indoor swimming pools, saunas, and hot tubs, perfect for soothing tired muscles. For a romantic touch, horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow-covered landscape provide a serene escape.
- Ice Skating
- Swimming Pools and Wellness Areas
- Tobogganing (Day and Night)
- Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides
- Shopping and Dining
Two Children Skiing on a Snowy Slope in Austria, Equipped with Helmets and Winter Gear. Photo by Piro, Pixabay.
Obertauern – Ski Rental Services
Obertauern offers numerous ski hire shops, each catering to various needs of skiers and snowboarders. These rental outlets are conveniently located across the resort, ensuring easy access for all visitors. Additionally, some shops offer expert advice, and many have partnerships with local ski schools, providing rental packages with lessons. Among the most popular and trusted outlets are:
Obertauern – Ski Schools
Several reputable ski and snowboard schools in Obertauern offer various lessons and programs for all skill levels. These schools provide group and private lessons catering to beginners, more advanced skiers, and snowboarders. They also offer specialised courses for children and off-piste enthusiasts. Some of the most notable schools include:
Kirchdorf – Ski Tickets
Ski tickets for Obertauern can be purchased directly at the resort or through various online platforms. Prices vary depending on the length of the pass and the time of year. These locations provide physical and online purchasing options, allowing visitors to secure their ski passes in advance conveniently. Some shops offer discounts or special deals for early bookings or group purchases.
Snowy Mountain Village at Night Under a Full Moon in Obertauern, Austria. Photo by Digitalarbyter, Unsplash.
Obertauern – In Closing
Obertauern is a highly regarded ski resort in Austria, offering a variety of slopes and activities for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. With its renowned snow reliability, it stands out as a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The resort features 100 km of slopes, advanced terrain for free riders, and a unique ski-in, ski-out experience. It is particularly well-suited for intermediate skiers but offers options for beginners and experts, including off-piste areas, night skiing, and snow-kiting.
Obertauern is a fantastic destination for a wide range of visitors, offering something special for every type of skier or snowboarder. Intermediate skiers will find most of the terrain suited to their skill level, making it a prime spot for those looking to refine their abilities.
Freeride enthusiasts will love the resort's challenging slopes and a strong reputation for off-piste skiing, which provides thrilling adventures in untouched snow. Families and beginners are also well-catered, with excellent ski schools and gentle nursery slopes designed to create a welcoming and supportive environment for first-time skiers and young learners.
Obertauern earns high marks for its excellent snow conditions, well-maintained slopes, and range of activities, scoring 9 out of 10. While its lift system is efficient and the après-ski scene is lively, it can be a bit pricey, and the lack of extensive tree-lined runs may limit visibility on stormy days.
For a great holiday experience at Obertauern, book your ski trip through Exploreo and discover sustainable activities and accommodations for your stay. Visit Exploreo.com to book now.
For the most up-to-date details on restaurants, bars, ski rentals, ski schools, and
Enjoy your holiday in Obertauern!