Dachstein West Guide

Three idyllic alpine villages that have retained an original rustic charm and hospitality, but also a seamlessly interconnected modern skiing resort with modern lift facilities and breathtaking panoramas. As this is a less known area internationally, ski property remains reasonably priced and there are some exciting real estate projects on the market. 

  • Elevation up to 1,620m
  • Total ski runs 51km (black 3 / red 33 / blue 15)
  • Lifts 23
  • Several golf courses within 1h drive
  • Transport Links: By car Salzburg Airport 1h, Munich Airport 2h30, Klagenfurt Airport 2h30, Innsbruck Airport 2h45 

Do not miss: The brand new “Himmelsleiter” or the “Ladder to Heaven”, a 40m long panoramic sky ladder, is a thrilling climbing experience and affords unforgettable views over the Dachstein Glacier and the Großglockner.  

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Resort Overview

The Dachstein West area is compact and consists of three pretty Alpine villages: Gosau, Russbach and Annaberg, all seamlessly interconnected by ski lifts in winter and well catered for summer sports enthusiasts with countless opportunities for hiking, biking and swimming in the open nature. With numerous attractions and easy access from Salzburg, the resort attracts visitors year-round and the area is therefore perfectly suited for property investment.

Winter Season & Ski

You will find everything you need for a perfect winter escape in the Dachstein West area: varied slopes and modern infrastructure for downhill skiing and endless cross-country skiing trails.   

A great way to see the entire resort is the “Panoronda”, a 44 km long panorama ski circuit along the Dachstein boasting scenic views over the area. There are also numerous fun slopes as well as a large freestyle snowpark for beginners and advanced freestylers alike. The three idyllic villages remain a little bit of the beaten track and therefore have succeeded in retaining an authentic and friendly feel and hospitality compared to some of their better known neighbours. This also means less crowded lifts and excellent value. 

Summer Season

In summer, the cable cars remain open at all of the three villages allowing hikers and bikers to ascent the peaks and enjoy the plentiful trails and spectacular panoramic views across the Gosau Glacier and the craggy Gosaukamm ridge. Walk across the blooming meadows and fragrant forests, soak up the sun and you will soon forget about everyday stress. Hiking trails difficulty varies - some easier hikes are suitable for leisure walkers and even buggies, whilst those on the quest for some more thrill and professional climbers can take the challenging, but rewarding Via Ferrata leading to the top of the Donnerkogel. The “Bruno’s Mountain World” is a favourite for kids with its numerous play and learn stations. From May to September, families love to spend time in the Russbach Water Park with its natural swimming pool with an impressive waterfall, slides and canoe route. Annaberg, on the other hand, has equestrian centres that offer horseback riding lessons. Several golf courses are accessible within short drive distance (Golfclub am Mondsee or  Golfclub Gut an Altentann). If you want to venture a bit further form the resort, the very instagrammable Halstatt lake is a mere 15min drive away. 

Food Scene

Ever tried a guided mountain walk with cheese tasting? The Dachstein West region is the home of countless hillfarmers and you can be sure all ingredients are local and authentic. Be it winter or summer, you can enjoy a hearty local snack in one of the ski huts or tavernas along the piste or trail and splash it down with a strong schnapps. 

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