The AlpsLegendary off-piste, legendary après

St Anton am Arlberg

The birthplace of alpine skiing — and Europe's craziest après

St Anton invented the modern ski school (1901). Today it's the yardstick for two things: off-piste terrain that could keep you busy for a season, and après-ski that puts French resorts to shame. The MooserWirt reportedly sells more beer per m² than anywhere in Europe.

Altitude

1,304 – 2,811 m

Pistes

305 km lifts + 200 km ski routes (Arlberg pass)

Season

Early December – late April

6-day lift pass

€389 (6 days, Arlberg adult)

Accommodation

€110–200/night midweek; New Year doubles

Best for

Off-piste · Après-ski legends · Snowboarders

Why go

Arlberg pass now links St Anton, Lech and Zürs — 305km of lifts
The Valluga off-piste (guide required) is bucket-list terrain
Legendary après at MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh from 15:00
Direct trains from Zurich, Munich and Innsbruck — no transfer needed

Getting there

Fly Zurich (ZRH), Innsbruck (INN) or Munich (MUC). Train direct to St Anton — 3.5h from Zurich.

Après-ski

MooserWirt (the legend), Krazy Kanguruh, Heustadl — all ski-boot dancing from 15:00

Non-negotiable for a ski week

Snowsports travel insurance

Standard travel policies exclude skiing. Add the winter-sports rider or a dedicated policy — a mountain rescue can be €10,000+ out of pocket.

The honest downside

Not beginner-friendly. Green runs exist but the resort's DNA is steep. Send beginners to Lech instead (linked on same pass).

Other resorts worth a look

Aviasales, Kiwitaxi, Airalo and EKTA links are affiliate — we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Info reviewed for the 2025/26 season.