Hotel Gisela, Bad Gastein

The Gasteinertal area offers around 198km of varied skiing, making it especially appealing for intermediates who want long, satisfying runs and plenty of terrain to explore. Wide, open pistes sit higher up the mountains, while scenic, tree-lined valley descents provide a more relaxed cruising experience back down into the towns. One of the standout challenges is the 10.5km red run from the Hohe Scharte summit, a sustained descent that really rewards confident skiing and stamina.

For beginners, the setup is straightforward and reassuring. Nursery slopes are located right by the gondola, allowing first-timers to ease into skiing close to the village before progressing onto gentle blue runs nearby. This progression works well across the wider ski area, which balances learning-friendly terrain with more demanding long-distance skiing.

Bad Gastein is the most atmospheric of the Gastein resorts, with a long history as a spa destination thanks to its natural thermal springs. The town is set dramatically within a narrow mountain gorge, where snow-covered pines climb the steep slopes and elegant, historic buildings in a Viennese style line the streets. Waterfalls run through the centre of town, adding to its distinctive and slightly theatrical feel. Unlike many Alpine ski villages, Bad Gastein has a more urban character, with larger, grand hotels rather than small chalet-style accommodation.

The atmosphere here is lively and varied. There’s a mix of modern cocktail bars, hotel lounges, and traditional Tyrolean taverns, so evenings can be as relaxed or as social as you want them to be. The spa culture is still a major part of the experience, with thermal baths and wellness centres playing a central role in how many visitors unwind after skiing. It’s a resort where skiing and relaxation are tightly intertwined rather than separate activities.

Beyond the slopes and spas, there’s a strong range of winter activities that give the area extra variety. A giant zipline crosses the gorge for a fast, scenic thrill, while more adventurous visitors can try ice climbing on frozen waterfalls in the surrounding mountains. On flatter ground, ice stock which is Austria’s traditional version of curling and offers a social, easy-to-pick-up activity that fits well with the resort’s relaxed but active feel.