Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau

The Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau is one of Tirol’s hidden gems, offering 113 km of pistes across two authentic alpine valleys — the Alpbachtal and the Wildschönau — linked by modern lifts since 2012. The resort combines four main ski areas (Alpbach, Reith, Auffach, and Niederau), making it one of Austria’s top 10 largest ski regions.

Set between 650 m and 2,025 m, Ski Juwel is known for its family-friendly slopes, charming villages, and great value for money. Unlike bigger, glitzier Austrian names, it feels relaxed and traditional, with wooden chalets, Tirolean hospitality, and a focus on skiing rather than partying.

It’s particularly popular with families, intermediates, and those who prefer charm and character over sheer scale.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Ski Juwel area offers a good balance of runs across its valleys.

• Beginners: Gentle nursery slopes in Reith and Niederau are perfect for learners. The atmosphere is calm and supportive, with excellent ski schools.

• Intermediates: This is prime cruising territory. Long blues and reds dominate, with scenic runs like the Hornboden descent in Alpbach and Hopfgarten connections in Wildschönau. Intermediates can explore the full circuit without difficulty.

• Experts: There are several challenging blacks, including steep runs on Schatzberg and Gmahkopf. Off-piste routes with a guide add variety. While it doesn’t have the freeride reputation of Fieberbrunn, it does offer good powder days.

• Freestylers: The Snowpark Alpbachtal and funslopes cater to freestyle skiers and snowboarders, with lines for beginners and intermediates.

Snowmaking covers over 85% of pistes, ensuring reliable coverage throughout the season.

Ski Lift Passes

Lift passes cover the full Ski Juwel area.

• Adult: ~€63/day | ~€315 for 6 days
• Child (6–15): ~50% reduction
• Under 6s: Free

Deals:

• Family and youth discounts.
• Reduced beginner passes for nursery lifts.

More details at the Ski Juwel ticket page.

Resort & Infrastructure

Ski Juwel is compact but well connected:

• Modern gondolas like the Alpbach–Wiedersbergerhornbahn and Schatzbergbahn link the valleys.
• The 2012 connection between Alpbach and Wildschönau created a fully integrated ski area.
• Free ski buses connect surrounding villages.

Each base has its own character:

• Alpbach: A traditional, award-winning “Most Beautiful Village in Austria,” known for wooden chalets and alpine charm.
• Reith im Alpbachtal: Small and beginner-friendly, great for families with young children.
• Auffach: The main Wildschönau base, with good access to Schatzberg.
• Niederau: Traditional, welcoming, with ski schools and gentle slopes.

Accommodation

Lodging in Ski Juwel is mainly in traditional chalets, guesthouses, and family-run hotels.

• Budget: Guesthouses and apartments in Niederau and Reith.
• Mid-Range: 3★–4★ hotels in Alpbach and Auffach with half-board.
• Luxury: Boutique spa hotels such as Natur & Spa Resort Der Alpbacherhof and Hotel Platzl in Auffach.

Browse via the official Ski Juwel accommodation search.

Dining & Après

Mountain huts across the Ski Juwel are known for authentic Tyrolean food. Cosy spots like Gmahkopfalm and Hornbodenhütte serve dumplings, schnitzel, and Kaiserschmarrn. Prices are reasonable compared to larger Austrian resorts.

Après-ski is low-key but friendly. Niederau and Auffach have sociable bars, while Alpbach and Reith are quieter, focused more on cosy evenings and hotel lounges. Those seeking big parties would head to Mayrhofen or Ischgl instead.

Non-Skiing Activities

Ski Juwel has a strong appeal for families and non-skiers:

• Toboggan runs, including night tobogganing in Niederau.
• Winter hiking and snowshoe trails.
• Cross-country skiing circuits in Wildschönau.
• Wellness and spa facilities at many hotels.
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides and village cultural events.

Village Character & Access

The Ski Juwel’s villages are among the most authentic in Tirol. Alpbach in particular is famous for its wooden architecture and alpine charm, while Wildschönau’s hamlets feel traditional and unspoilt. The vibe is warm, welcoming, and family-friendly.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Innsbruck Airport (50 mins) is closest; Munich and Salzburg are 1.5–2 hrs.
• By train: Rail to Brixlegg or Wörgl, then short bus/taxi transfers.
• By car: Around 11 hrs from Calais.

InTheSnow Verdict

The Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau is one of Austria’s best-kept secrets. It combines charming villages, reliable slopes, and great value for families and intermediates. While it doesn’t have the scale or après-ski of Saalbach or Ischgl, its authenticity and character make it a wonderful choice for those seeking a quieter, traditional Austrian ski experience.

For families, couples, and anyone who values charm and atmosphere, the Ski Juwel is a jewel worth discovering.

Ski Juwel

© Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau Tourismus