Obertauern Guide

A compact snow-sure ski-in-ski-out resort with lively atmosphere year-round and tempting foodie scene. The ultimate destination for property hunters who look for a ski-in ski-out property in this top Austrian town. 

  • Elevation up to 2,526m
  • Total ski runs 100km (black 4, red 35, blue 61)
  • Lifts 31
  • Cross-country trails 70km 
  • Hiking trails over 100km
  • Three golf courses in vicinity 
  • Wild animal park for kids
  • Transport Links: By car from Salzburg Airport 1h10 / from Klagenfurt Airport 1h40

Don’t miss: The adventurous circular family hike to Gnadenalm is a lot of fun for all the family with viewing towers and water play areas on the way. 

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Resort Overview

Situated in the heart of the Salzburgerland, Obertauern has a unique compact position surrounded on all sides by downhill runs so visitors always have a 360º perspective and easy orientation no matter where they find themselves. No wonder the town got its “snowbowl” nickname. The resort has one of the best snow records in Austria providing excellent skiing conditions from late November until early May with abundance of fresh snow powder. Obertauern distinguishes itself from other Austrian resorts by its history - possibly the only purpose-built ski resort, developed out of nothing in the post-war years by avid ski sports enthusiasts. Due to its snow-assuredness, it was picked by the Beatles in 1965 who came to shoot here their film Help! which brought the resort instantaneous notoriety and reputation. Over 100km of perfectly groomed pistes with the latest lift infrastructure, 70km of cross-country trails that lead through some fascinating sceneries, 25 ski huts with a lively après-ski scene continue to attract winter sport fans from around the world. But Obertauern has it all also for a perfect summer holiday with stunning mountainous scenery, hiking and biking opportunities and other fun options for families with kids. Thanks to its reliable snow conditions and long winter season, occupancy rates are high so buying a holiday home or chalet is an attractive proposition. 

Winter Season & Ski

Downhill skiing in Obertauern is easy and fun. There are many access points in the town, so you are never far away from a lift guaranteeing a near ski-in-ski-out experience which is unique in Austria. Facilities are fast and modern so the time you actually spend on the lifts is modest and queues minimal, allowing you to really enjoy the skiing adventure. Slopes are dotted with ski huts and sun decks ideal for a hearty snack to refresh and get some extra energy. In terms of slopes difficulty, there is something for everyone and freeriders, experienced skiers and beginners will find the right challenging piste. Children can practice on one of the wide nursery slopes in the Bibo Bear Family Ski Park with some terrain even suitable for infants. For those who love to make their curves on the freshly prepared morning slopes, every Wednesday the cablecars open earlier than usual to give the early risers a peaceful moment to enjoy the pistes undisturbed. Cross-country skiers can marvel at the surrounding nature on the many kilometres of prepared trails. Their difficulty varies and Obertauern has some extremely challenging terrains as well. If you want to have some fun after you finished skiing, the resort has 6.5km of tobogganing terrain some of it floodlit for the evening hours. If you like to try something new, you could take a lesson in snow-biking or biathlon in the newly opened biathlon centre. Or, for a real adrenaline kick, try snow-kiting and be lifted in the air with you snowboard. 

Summer Season

The unspoilt natural surroundings of the Obertauern provide the perfect base for an active and fun summer holiday. Whether you plan to conquer the summits on bike or just want to have a leisurely stroll, you can be sure to find the perfect hiking or biking trail. The main cablecars remain open in summer and let you take up your bike, pram or dog. You could stop at one of the alpine lakes for a quick dip in the water or visit the imposing Johaness Waterfall. Or take advantage of one of the “mountain skyvers”, light bikes especially designed for descent, to go down the valley. Three golf courses (Golfclub Lungau, Golfclub Radstadt and Putting Green Obertauern) are within less than an hour drive. For an excursion, why not venture out to the Untertauern Wild & Leisure Park? Extending to over 11 hectares, the park is the home of over 40 wild animals including mouflon, deer, hare, ponies and lamas and children will love playing on the ropeways and playgrounds. Yoga classes in the open nature are also offered and good value. The region boasts numerous opportunities for fishing and horse-riding. The legendary panoramic motorbike route 99 that leads via the Grossglockner alpine route and the Sölk Pass passes directly through Obertauern. 

Food Scene

As anywhere in Austria, the food element is an integral part of your winter or summer holiday. This is also the case in Obertauern where the culinary experience is central and gourmet options abound, whether you are after a quick snack to recharge after your alpine hike or seek a more sophisticated fine dining fare. Options are countless from rustic huts serving heavier delicacies of the Salzburger cuisine to lighter meals served in bistrots and tavernas around the resort. In any case, you can rest assured about the quality and authenticity of the products and ingredients that mostly come from nearby hillfarms. 

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