St Anton - introduction

In the heart of the Austrian Alps, at the western end of Tirol, is a village of which skiing forms the fabric of its very being. St. Anton am Arlberg lays claim to being the cradle of skiing – the first ski club and the first ski school were formed in the Arlberg.

Walking through the village to the lift station, ice crystals glinting in the air, one feels an atmosphere of purposefulness and excitement – the anticipation of another ski day in a village that lives and breathes the sport.

It's a world-class resort that many rate their Number One and the best are attracted to its slopes. This brings a bonus for any visitor, at whatever level, because from a chairlift one can always look down to see a super skier in action – watch and learn.

Photo: Patrick Bätz

St. Anton is part of the fabulous Arlberg ski area, encompassing St. Christoph and, across the provincial border in Vorarlberg, Stuben, Zürs and Lech. The range, breadth and character of the runs, on- and off-piste, are breathtaking.

The whole package, skiing and village combined, is a heady mix of fabulous slopes, towering scenery, Tirolean charm and energetic après-ski.

Highlights

• Fantastic range of skiing, with some of the world's most exciting runs
• Lift pass that covers five villages, comprising 280km of groomed piste and 84 lifts
• Reputation for huge snowfalls, plus extensive snowmaking
• Lively and charming Tirolean village
• Huge choice of accommodation, including chalets and two 5-star hotels
• Home to Europe's highest mainline rail station

Lowlights

• The homebound pistes can get crowded
• Slopes near the village can get worn in late season (although we've always been able to ski all the way down)
• Its macho reputation can intimidate some people (in fact, there's a lot of terrain for beginners and intermediates) 

Find out more about the Austrian Tirol