AUSTRIA                                                               

Schladming is a premier ski destination in Austria, nestled in the heart of the Dachstein-Tauern region of Styria. Known for its skiing tradition, picturesque alpine charm, and modern facilities, Schladming attracts visitors from all around the world. The resort is part of the Ski Amade network, one of the largest ski areas in Europe, offering extensive skiing opportunities across multiple mountains. In this guide we cover everything you need to know about Schladming from Ski area and passes, to accommodation, where to eat, apres-ski, and how to get there.                                                        

Plan your Ski Adventure

Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favorite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.

Ski World– They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada, for more than 36 years.

Skyscanner– it’s our go to for finding the best flights, we usually start here and usually finish here.

Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews.

Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermat, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find “Omio or Trainline” are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.

Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like “Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com’ provide reliable options with winter equipment.

Travel insurance– Don’t ski without it. If you get hurt on the mountain it could cost, you a small fortune if you’re not insured. We used “Safety Wing” when my wife broke her ankle a few years ago in Wengen they were terrific.

Ski Equipment – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Owning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like “Skis’, ‘Pants and Jackets,’ Gloves, ski -helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Berg’s Ski and Snowboard (US) or Snow and Rock (UK)

For Specific resort information- we turn to the resort website, which often provides details on lift-passes, equipment rentals, ski school bookings. These resources together make planning our ski trips a lot easier.

The Village

The town of Schladming with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and bustling town center, Schladming offers a welcoming alpine atmosphere. The village’s blend of authenticity and convenience makes it an excellent base for a memorable ski holiday.

We love:

• Historic Charm: The village dates back to medieval times, offering a quaint yet lively setting.
• Modern Amenities: Shops, spas, and facilities cater to all visitor needs.
• Lively Apres-Ski: Schladming is famous for its apres-ski scene, especially along its main street and on the slopes.

SKI AREA and SKI PASSES

Schladming is part of the Ski Amade area, which includes five major ski regions and offers access to over 760 kilometers of slopes across 25 resorts.

Ski Area Highlights

Schladming is centered around the 4-Mountain Ski Area, which connects:

1. Hauser Kaibling: Known for wide-open slopes and great snow conditions.

2    Planai: The hub of Schladming, ideal for both intermediate and advanced skiers.

3   Hochwurzen: Perfect for night skiing and families.

4 Reiteralm: A training ground for professional ski teams, featuring challenging off-piste runs.

Terrain Overview

• Beginners: Gentle slopes and dedicated learning areas.

• Intermediate: Blue and red runs dominate, making it a paradise for confident skiers.

• Advanced: Black runs, moguls, and off-piste terrain cater to thrill-seekers

• Freestyle: A large snowpark with Jumps, rails, and a halfpipe is available for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

• Wear a SKI-HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks and remember to pack your SKI-GOGGLES for Schladming.

Ski Passes

1. Ski Amade Pass: Covers all five regions of the ski Amade area, including Schladming

• 4-Mountain Pass: access to the interconnected mountains of Hauser Kaibling, Planai, Hochwurzen, and Reitalm.

•  Beginner and Local Passes: Specific passes for smaller areas, ideal for learners or short trips.

 Passes are available online or at resort ticket offices, with discounts for families, seniors, and multi-day purchases.

*Handy Tip*

Don’t forget your GOPRO or your INSTA360 for all those action shots with family and friends.

Where to Stay in Schladming.                                                                      

Luxury

1. Arx Hotel: Contemporary design meets alpine coziness, complete withwellness facilities and fine dining.
2. Falkensteiner Hotel Schladming: A modern 4-star hotel with spa facilities, gourmet dining, and ski-in/ski-out access.
3. Hotel Schutterhof: Known for its panoramic views, excellent service, and wellness area.

Mid-Range

1. JUFA Hotel Schladming: A family-friendly option in the heart of the village, with spacious rooms and an on-site play area.
2. Alpine Club by Diamond Resorts: Comfortable apartments with modern amenities and great views.
3. TUI BLUE Schladming: Centrally located with easy access to the Planai gondola.

Budget-Friendly

1. Pension Spreitzhofer: A cozy guesthouse with traditional Austrian hospitality.

• Haus Barbara: Affordable yet comfortable apartments for families or groups.

• Youth Hostel Schladming: A great option for budget travelers and Backpackers

 I always carry a DAY BACKPACK when skiing, as well as a WATER BOTTLE. It keeps me hydrated all day long on the slopes.

Where to Eat

On the Mountain

1. Holzhackerstube: A cozy mountain hut known for its hearty Austrian dishes and stunning views.
2. Schafalm: Located on Planai, offering local specialities and live music.
3. Almwelt Austria: Traditional Styrian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

In-Town.

1. Julius: A popular restaurant offering a mix of international and Austrian dishes.

      2    Vorstadt-Stub’n: A family-run establishment serving traditional Styrian meals.

      3     Papa Joe’s: An American-style eatery, perfect for casual dining and cocktails.

Apres-Ski and Bars                                                              

Schladming boasts a lively apres-ski scene with plenty of bars and clubs:

1. Hohenhaus Tenne: The largest apres-ski venue in Europe, located at the Planai base station.
2. Tauernalm: A cozy bar with an excellent selection of schnapps and live music 3. Friends Bar: A laid-back spot in the heart of the village.

How to get to Schladming.

By Plane

1. Salzburg Airport: Approximately 90 kilometers (1.5 hours by car)

      2   Graz Airport: around 170 kilometers (2 hours by car)

      3   Munich Airport: approximately 230 kilometres (3 hours by car)

From these airports, SHUTTLE services and CAR RENTALS are available to take you directly to Schladming. Compare and BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE.

By Train

Schladming has its own train station, with regular connections from major Austrian cities such as Salzburg, Vienna, and Graz. Trains are a convenient and scenic way to reach the resort. You can book your TRAIN HERE.

By Car

Schladming is easily accessible via Austria’s well-maintained roads.

• From Salzburg: Take the A10 Tauern Autobahn south, followed by regional roads to Schladming.
• Parking: Many accommodations offer private parking, and public parking is available in the village.
• For more convenience and flexibility, compare these car rental rates, DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS.COM

TRANSFER WITH Ski Lifts

Getting to Austria’s best ski resorts couldn’t be easier than with Ski-lifts, offering both airport and train station transfers. Private transfers are a popular choice, as you will not be sharing with others or waiting at the airport, as your driver will be waiting for you.

  By Bus

Regional buses operate from nearby towns and airports, providing an affordable alternative to private transfers.

Resort Activities                                                    

 Schladming offers a wealth of activities for non-skiers or those seeking a break from the slopes:

1. Winter Hiking: Enjoy scenic trails through snow-covered forests.

2.  Tobogganing: Hochwurzen’s illuminated toboggan run is a highlight.

      3.  Ice Skating: A family-friendly activity available in the village.

      4.  Dachstein Skywalk: A thrilling glass viewing platform on the Dachstein Glacier.

      5.  Spa and Wellness: Many hotels offer extensive wellness facilities for relaxation.

*Handy Tip*

  Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.

Schladming’s traditional alpine charm, world class skiing and vibrant apres-ski culture, makes it an excellent destination for all visitors. Its connection to the Ski Amade area ensures endless skiing opportunities, while the village itself provides a welcoming base with superb dining and accommodation options. Whether you’re carving through the slopes of the 4-Mountain Ski Area or enjoying a hearty meal in a mountain hut, Schladming promises an unforgettable alpine experience.

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