Söll – Overview
Söll, located in the Austrian Tyrol region, is a vibrant and popular destination within the expansive SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental region. A favourite among European visitors, it’s traditionally marketed as an ideal resort for beginner skiers, mixed-ability groups, and families with young children.
The resort offers affordable accommodation, a separate ski area for children, and valley-level slopes perfect for beginners. Söll is also renowned for its lively nightlife and charming village atmosphere. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
The village is about 700 meters from the base-area slopes and gondola terminal, requiring either a short walk or ski bus ride to access the ski lifts. The lower altitude can sometimes lead to less-than-ideal snow conditions on the beginner slopes and children's areas.
While Söll is well-suited for beginners, it is particularly significant for intermediates who can fully enjoy its steeper runs, longer descents, and extensive ski circuit within the SkiWelt region. The resort offers ample opportunities for exploration, with numerous slopes to experience in the interconnected SkiWelt areas.
Söll – Ski Resort Highlights
Ski Resort Highlights
Söll – Ski Map & Pistes
Söll’s central ski peak, the Hohe Salve (1,829m), is the highest point in the SkiWelt area and is shared with neighbouring resorts Itter and Hopfgarten. From its summit, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic views of the Kitzbüheler and Zillertal Alps and the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. Seventy peaks above 3,000 meters are visible from its 360-degree viewpoint. This high-altitude area typically offers some of the best snow conditions in the SkiWelt region.
The Hohe Salve area also features the most challenging terrain, with a concentration of intermediate and advanced-level slopes, including steep pitches and long, continuous descents. There are several short black runs at the summit, linked by red runs that lead down to the village of Brixen im Thale on the opposite side of the SkiWelt. Most pistes in Söll are accessible for intermediates, with the "home run" providing a scenic descent back to the gondola base area.
For confident beginners, a long blue run from the summit leads down to the valley floor near Hochsöll. Several other options are also available, although they often require navigating red-grade slopes.
Lifts and Queues
Söll ski resort, part of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental area, is well-equipped with a range of lifts that service the extensive ski terrain. The SkiWelt area, which includes Söll, offers access to 90 lifts across the SkiWelt area, covering the resorts of Söll, Ellmau, Scheffau, and more.
There are 16 gondolas, providing efficient and comfortable access to higher-altitude terrain. For mid-altitude runs, 35 high-speed chairlifts, including several heated and covered options. Thirty-nine drag and beginner-friendly surface lifts, typically used for lower slopes or beginner areas.
Söll has access to many of these lifts, particularly with a high-speed gondola from the village to the main SkiWelt area and connecting lifts to access various parts of the mountain circuit.
The SkiWelt area, including Söll, is known for effectively managing lift queues. The extensive network and high-capacity lifts generally shorten wait times, even during peak season. Key entry points may see a short wait in peak holiday weeks but are typically well-managed.
With regular upgrades, SkiWelt has maintained a modern lift infrastructure, including heated and covered chairlifts for comfort. The system is designed for smooth transit between areas, allowing skiers to move quickly around the resort with minimal delays. This efficiency also helps reduce overcrowding on specific slopes by dispersing skiers and snowboarders throughout the area.
Overall, Söll offers a well-connected, fast, and efficient lift system that minimises wait times and enhances access to the SkiWelt’s extensive ski terrain.
Special features
Söll Ski Resort offers diverse features to enhance the skiing and snowboarding experience for all levels. Highlights include jumps, rails, boxes, and a fun slope with obstacles suitable for beginners and advanced riders alike. The “Hans im Glück” ski course and fun slope provide playful options, ideal for families and those seeking variety.
Additionally, Söll boasts one of Austria's largest night skiing areas, with over ten miles of illuminated slopes, offering a magical evening adventure for skiers and snowboarders.
Söll and the SkiWelt area have made efforts to improve accessibility with various accommodations and facilities to support visitors with disabilities. Many of the gondolas and lift stations in Söll are wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate skiers and snowboarders with disabilities. The main gondola in Söll and several high-speed chairlifts are equipped with ramps and accessible facilities to make boarding easier.
Söll has several accessible accommodation options, including hotels and lodges with wheelchair-friendly rooms, accessible bathrooms, and elevators. Many hotels offer shuttle services to nearby ski areas and lifts.
Overall, Söll Ski Resort offers a variety of activities, special features, and accessibility-focused amenities, aiming to provide a fun, inclusive, and diverse mountain experience for all visitors.
Explore the slopes of Söll, Austria, with this detailed ski map - there are over 280km of interconnected pistes in the SkiWelt area, perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities!
Söll – Off-Piste, Backcountry & Ski Touring
The SkiWelt area, with elevations reaching up to approximately 2,000 meters, tends to offer limited powder conditions. Most off-piste terrain is found between groomed runs, but the prime off-piste experience within SkiWelt is around Söll.
Here, the "Black Pipe" ski route from Hohe Salve to Hochsöll, with inclines over 80 per cent, offers an exhilarating descent. For even more variety, the renowned slopes of Kitzbühel are only about a 30-minute drive away.
Off-piste skiing
Söll provides some appealing off-piste terrain within the SkiWelt area, with most of the accessible terrain located near the groomed runs. The standout off-piste route is the “Black Pipe” — a challenging ski route that descends from Hohe Salve down to Hochsöll with steep, more than 80 per cent inclines.
Although powder conditions vary due to the resort’s relatively low altitude, this route offers a thrilling descent on steeper, ungroomed slopes. It's recommended to check snow conditions and consider avalanche safety measures when exploring off-piste here, as snowfall can be inconsistent.
Backcountry skiing
For actual backcountry skiing, Söll’s neighbouring areas provide greater depth. Söll offers backcountry options, particularly after fresh snowfall, with easy access points from the ski lifts that reach higher altitudes. Trails along the Hohe Salve can lead to off-the-beaten-path snowfields with open views of the surrounding valleys.
However, nearby Kitzbühel or the Wildkogel Arena (a short drive from Söll) are known for more extensive backcountry skiing, offering more bottomless powder and expansive terrain. As always, skiers should have avalanche knowledge or travel with a guide for safety.
Ski touring
Söll and the greater SkiWelt area offer attractive ski touring routes, with trails ranging from gentle ascents through scenic landscapes to more demanding climbs. One popular ski tour option is the Hohe Salve circuit, which combines some lift access with scenic touring trails and offers stunning panoramic views of the Wilder Kaiser and surrounding ranges.
Another accessible tour is from Hochsöll to Filzalmsee, where you can loop back or continue toward neighbouring areas within the SkiWelt. These tours are especially appealing during early morning hours before lifts open or late in the season for a quieter experience.
Guided tours
Söll offers guided tours for all levels, including off-piste, backcountry, and ski-touring adventures, often arranged through local ski schools and guiding companies. Ski schools like Skischule Söll and other regional providers offer group and private tours with guides who know the best spots for current conditions.
Guided off-piste and backcountry tours often focus on safety, navigation, and avalanche awareness, making them a great option for beginners and advanced skiers.
For ski touring, guided experiences include instruction on equipment, route planning, and technique, making it easier to confidently explore some of the area's more challenging and scenic routes.
Discover the thrill of ski touring in Söll, Austria - explore pristine snow-covered landscapes and breathtaking alpine views in the heart of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental.
Söll – Safety measures
Söll Ski Resort, a vital part of the SkiWelt area, prioritises visitor safety with comprehensive measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience. Avalanche safety is a top focus, as is continuously monitoring snow and weather conditions.
Risk levels are updated regularly via signage, information boards, and the SkiWelt app, while off-piste hazards are marked to keep skiers within safe areas.
Additionally, the resort conducts regular slope grooming and maintenance to minimise risks, and its lift systems are frequently inspected to ensure smooth and secure operations. Night skiing in Söll is carefully controlled, with well-lit slopes and patrols for added security.
Emergency preparedness is another cornerstone of Söll’s safety measures. Ski patrols monitor slopes and provide first aid, while strategically placed rescue stations handle minor injuries and coordinate larger emergencies.
Information boards throughout the resort provide clear instructions and emergency contact details. Educational efforts also enhance safety, with on-site signage promoting proper slope etiquette and ski schools offering specialised training in avalanche awareness, off-piste safety, and general skiing practices.
These extensive measures reflect Söll’s commitment to skier and snowboarder well-being, making it a reliable choice for travellers seeking adventure and peace of mind.
Söll Ski Resort aims to offer visitors a secure, well-maintained, and supportive environment through these combined safety measures.
Söll – Environmental measures
Söll Ski Resort, part of the SkiWelt area, has embraced a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, aiming to protect the Alpine ecosystem and support local wellbeing.
A primary focus is on renewable energy, with the resort investing in solar and hydropower to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Energy-efficient lift systems equipped with regenerative braking contribute to lower energy consumption.
Additionally, Söll has implemented eco-friendly snowmaking practices, including water recycling systems and advanced snow cannons that optimize energy and water use based on temperature.
Waste reduction and sustainable transport are key elements of Söll’s strategy. Recycling stations throughout the resort and using biodegradable or reusable packaging in restaurants help reduce waste, while efficient public transport links and EV charging stations encourage eco-conscious travel.
The resort also supports nature conservation with designated protected zones to preserve wildlife habitats and partners with local businesses to promote sustainable practices.
Educational and community-focused efforts further demonstrate Söll’s commitment to sustainability. Initiatives like Green Ski Days and informational signage raise environmental awareness among visitors, encouraging responsible tourism.
These practices ensure that Söll offers memorable skiing experiences and leads by example in promoting sustainable tourism and preserving its stunning Alpine surroundings.
Söll – Family Skiing
Söll offers a fantastic setup for young skiers, with facilities and instruction options tailored to kids of all ages and skill levels. The SkiWelt Söll Ski Resort includes several dedicated beginner slopes and child-friendly ski areas, making it easy and safe for young learners to gain confidence in the snow.
The resort has family-friendly kids-only zones and regions, including Kinderland Söll and Kids Snow Park. These areas feature magic carpets, gentle slopes, and themed obstacles designed to make learning engaging and enjoyable for children.
Beyond skiing, Söll has various facilities and activities to keep children entertained on and off the slopes. Kinder Kaiserland offers childcare and supervised play in a warm, indoor environment. Certified staff provide age-appropriate activities, allowing parents to enjoy some skiing time while children play.
Besides Kinderland, there are snow play areas around the resort where children can enjoy snow tubing, sledging, and snowman-building. These areas are trendy for non-skiing children and provide a fun, safe way to experience the snow. Throughout the season, Söll organises winter-themed events designed for children, such as snowman-building contests, scavenger hunts, and magic shows.
With a strong focus on family and child-friendly experiences, Söll is an ideal destination for parents looking to introduce their children to skiing while enjoying various activities designed for all ages. Find a family friendly holiday on Exploreo.
A delicious gourmet burger served at a local pub in the Söll ski resort, perfect for fueling up after a day on the slopes.
Söll – Restaurants, Bars & The Town
Restaurants
Söll boasts a diverse dining scene, ranging from cosy mountain huts to fine dining establishments, offering traditional Austrian dishes and international cuisine. Popular restaurants serve hearty Alpine meals, and there are some particularly great options for upscale dining, such as Auf da Mühle.
These restaurants in Söll offer cosy Alpine atmospheres, hearty Tyrolean meals, and international flavours to suit various tastes.
- Auf da Mühle
- Giovanni
- Gasthof Postwirt
- Bella Vita
- Dorf Stubn
- Hexenalm
- Pizzeria Venezia
- Moonlight Bar
Après Ski
Despite being a small town, Söll boasts a surprisingly diverse selection of lively pubs and bars. Many of these venues offer vibrant après-ski atmospheres, though outdoor drinking on terraces must end in the late evening to respect local noise regulations.
The action typically begins at the base of the slopes, with Moonlight Bar offering classic Austrian après-ski entertainment, including sing-alongs and table dancing. As the evening progresses, the nightlife moves to the village centre, where you'll find a range of pubs and music bars.
Whiskey Mühle, located just outside the village, is also a popular spot for late-night revellers. While Söll's nightlife has become more subdued in recent years, there are still plenty of quieter, more relaxed spots, particularly in the upscale hotels, where guests can unwind more peacefully.
- Whiskey Mühle
- Moonlight Bar
- Salven Stadl
- Rossini Bar
- Hexenalm Après-Ski
- Red Horse Sportsbar
- Schindlhaus
- Auf da Mühle Bar
Charming snow-covered Appartement Waldruhe in Söll, Austria, perfect for a cozy winter getaway.
Söll – Accommodation Options
Söll offers a variety of accommodation options, from cosy hotels and chalets to more budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, catering to all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking luxury, a family-friendly stay, or a more rustic experience, there’s something to suit everyone. From hotels to chalets, hostels, and B&Bs, there is something for everyone and every budget.
Accommodation in Söll caters to various preferences, offering both on-site and nearby options. Staying in hotels or chalets near the slopes provides quick access to ski lifts and convenience, ideal for avid skiers, though it often comes at a higher price.
Alternatively, accommodations slightly further away are more budget-friendly and still offer easy access to the charming village atmosphere, restaurants, shops, and après-ski activities. Families are well-served, with numerous options featuring spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and close proximity to children’s ski areas, with some even offering childcare services and play facilities.
Söll – Activities
Söll offers a variety of exciting winter activities that cater to all interests, from skiing and snowboarding to scenic tours and family-friendly experiences. Some options include snowshoeing, tobogganing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating and helicopter tours.
To book your tours and activities, visit Exploreo for a selection of sustainable options that allow you to explore the resort and its surroundings while minimising your environmental footprint. Explore Tours and Activities in Söll.
- Snowshoeing
- Tobogganing
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides
- Ice skating
- Helicopter tours
Other Activities
The charming village centre of Söll is located just off the main valley road, typically accessible from heavy traffic, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk. The area is home to low-rise, chalet-style buildings and hotels surrounding the town’s striking baroque church with its onion dome. The village features a quaint “high street” lined with small shops.
For those seeking alternative activities, Söll offers night skiing, a floodlit toboggan run accessible via the gondola, snowshoeing, and even paragliding. Another highlight is the Alpen Iglu Village, an enchanting icy wonderland at the Hochbrixen mountain station. It is easily accessible to non-skiers and worth a visit for a unique experience.
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Spa and wellness
- Shopping
- Cultural tours
- Golf
- Horseback riding
- Fishing
- Paragliding
- Climbing
- Alpen Iglu Village
Young skier in bright pink suit enjoying the snowy slopes of Söll, Austria, perfect for family winter adventures.
Söll – Ski Rental Services
There are multiple ski hire outlets in Söll, and you will find the shop that's perfect for your needs. from snowboarding equipment to the best of skiis, each shop carries gear for all levels and abilities.
These rental shops offer a wide range of skis, snowboards, and accessories for all levels of skiers and snowboarders in Söll.
Söll – Ski Schools
There is a good selection of ski schools in Söll, offering a great variety of equipment. Some of the most recommended are Mountain Mind and Ski School Söll.
These ski schools offer lessons for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders, including private and group classes for all ages.
Söll – Ski Tickets
There are several ways to buy ski tickets in Söll. The best option is to book via the main mountain ticket office or visit the gondola station at the resort. When booking ski gear, it is worth asking the vendor if they also sell ski lift passes.
These locations offer ski passes for the SkiWelt region. Guests can purchase tickets in advance online or in person at the resort.
Scenic snowy forest trail in Söll, Austria, with skiers enjoying the tranquil winter wonderland.
Söll – In Closing
Söll, located in Austria's SkiWelt area, is a fantastic resort offering diverse skiing opportunities, a lively après-ski scene, and family-friendly activities. With over 270 kilometres of interconnected slopes, it’s an ideal destination for intermediate skiers, although it also provides options for beginners and advanced enthusiasts.
The resort's charming village atmosphere, complemented by numerous off-slope activities such as snowshoeing, tobogganing, and paragliding, ensures something for everyone.
This resort is perfect for families, intermediate skiers, and those looking for a vibrant après-ski experience. Beginners can take advantage of ski schools, while advanced skiers will appreciate the off-piste terrain. Additionally, non-skiers will enjoy plenty of other activities, making it a great all-around destination.
Söll excels in offering an extensive ski area, a variety of off-slope activities, and excellent après-ski. Its charming village and welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for many visitors. The resort's combination of relaxation and excitement and the SkiWelt’s snow reliability solidifies its status as one of Austria’s finest ski resorts. It would receive a rating of 8 out of 10.
Ready to hit the slopes and explore everything Söll has to offer? Book your sustainable winter getaway via Exploreo and experience this beautiful resort first hand.
Please note that some information may change over time, including lift schedules, available activities, and resort offerings. Always check with the resort or relevant providers for the most current details before your trip.
Have a great time in Söll.