Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is one of Austria’s most popular ski resorts, combining a bustling alpine town atmosphere with access to the vast Zillertal ski area, which offers a staggering 500 km of pistes under the Zillertal Superskipass. The resort itself sits at 630 m in the heart of the Zillertal Valley, with lifts rising to the Penken (2,095 m) and Ahorn (1,965 m) mountains.

Mayrhofen is known for its lively après-ski, challenging slopes, and huge variety. It’s a favourite with British skiers and snowboarders, partly thanks to its famous Snowbombing Festival, but also because it offers a complete package: extensive terrain, vibrant nightlife, reliable snow via nearby glaciers, and a wide range of accommodation.

For serious skiers, the nearby Hintertux Glacier (open 365 days a year) provides guaranteed snow and big verticals, making Mayrhofen an excellent base for long-season skiing.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Mayrhofen itself offers around 142 km of pistes across the Penken and Ahorn sectors, but with the Zillertal Superskipass you have access to 500 km across the whole valley.

• Beginners: The Ahorn sector is ideal for learners, with wide, gentle slopes and a relaxed atmosphere. Dedicated nursery zones at village level and good ski schools make it family-friendly.

• Intermediates: Intermediates will love the long, rolling blues and reds across Penken and Ahorn. Scenic descents like Panorama offer wide cruising, while the links to Finkenberg and Rastkogel expand the options.

• Experts: Mayrhofen is home to Austria’s steepest piste — the Harakiri — with a 78% gradient. Other challenging blacks include Devil’s Run. Freeride terrain is excellent around Penkenjoch and the Hintertux Glacier.

• Freestylers: Mayrhofen is a freestyle mecca, thanks to the Vans Penken Park, one of Europe’s best snowparks, with lines for all levels plus pro-standard features.

With the Hintertux Glacier just 20 minutes up the valley, snow reliability is guaranteed, and the season is long.

Ski Lift Passes

Skiers in Mayrhofen typically opt for the full Zillertal Superskipass.

• Mayrhofen local area (142 km): ~€66/day | ~€330 for 6 days
• Zillertal Superskipass (500 km, includes Hintertux): ~€74/day | ~€370 for 6 days
• Child (6–15): ~50% reduction
• Under 6s: Free

Details at the Zillertal Superskipass page.

Resort & Infrastructure

Mayrhofen is split between two main ski areas:

• Penken: The larger and livelier side, home to the Harakiri, Vans Penken Park, and a wide network of blues, reds, and blacks. The Penkenbahn gondola rises directly from the centre of town.

• Ahorn: A smaller, quieter area with wide, sunny slopes ideal for beginners and families. Known for its long red run down to the valley.

The lift system is modern, with fast gondolas and high-capacity chairs. Free ski buses connect Mayrhofen with other Zillertal resorts and the Hintertux Glacier. Snowmaking covers key runs to ensure reliable coverage at village level.

Accommodation

Mayrhofen offers a broad range of accommodation, much of it family-run in traditional Tyrolean style.

• Budget: Guesthouses, hostels, and simple apartments, popular with younger skiers.
• Mid-Range: 3★–4★ hotels with half-board, chalet-style apartments, and spa facilities.
• Luxury: Spa hotels such as ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat and Sporthotel Manni offer higher-end options with wellness, fine dining, and central locations.

Browse via the Mayrhofen accommodation search.

Dining & Après

Dining ranges from traditional Tyrolean cuisine to international fare. Mountain huts like Schneekarhütte combine rustic atmosphere with gourmet menus, while in town, restaurants such as Restaurant Ländenhof and Café Tirol offer hearty Austrian staples.

Après-ski is one of Mayrhofen’s biggest draws. Bars like Ice Bar, Brück’n Stadl, and Scotland Yard Pub are legendary for lively afternoons that run late into the night. Nightclubs like Arena keep the party going, while the annual Snowbombing Festival each April brings world-class DJs and a carnival atmosphere.

Non-Skiing Activities

Mayrhofen offers plenty beyond skiing:

• Tobogganing runs, snowshoeing, and winter hikes.
• Ice skating and curling at the village rink.
• Swimming pools and wellness centres.
• Day trips to Innsbruck or Salzburg.
• Concerts and cultural events, especially during Snowbombing.

Village Character & Access

Mayrhofen is a lively alpine town rather than a small village. Its wide streets, mix of traditional chalets and modern hotels, and bustling après-ski scene make it a hub of energy. It’s especially popular with British skiers, thanks to its nightlife and festival scene, but it also retains Tirolean charm and warm hospitality.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Innsbruck Airport (1 hr) is closest, with Munich and Salzburg (2.5 hrs) also options.
• By train: Rail to Jenbach, then Zillertalbahn train direct to Mayrhofen.
• By car: Around 11 hrs from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

Mayrhofen is one of Austria’s most complete resorts: a lively town, extensive local slopes, access to 500 km of skiing across the Zillertal, and guaranteed snow thanks to Hintertux. Add in legendary après-ski and world-class freestyle facilities, and it’s clear why Mayrhofen has such a devoted following.

It may not have the exclusivity of Lech or the party glamour of Ischgl, but for skiers who want variety, nightlife, and atmosphere, Mayrhofen is one of the best choices in Austria.