For UK skiers who want it all—deep powder, wide blues, Alpine charm, spa serenity, and family-friendly ease—there’s one destination that quietly ticks every box: Altenmarkt-Zauchensee. Tucked in SalzburgerLand and just over an hour from Salzburg Airport, this under-the-radar resort is shaping up to be one of winter 2025/26’s most rewarding ski escapes.
Two Resorts, One Dream: Zauchensee + Radstadt-Altenmarkt
Altenmarkt-Zauchensee isn’t your average ski resort. It’s actually a two-resort combo, with contrasting personalities that perfectly complement each other.
High up in Zauchensee-Flachauwinkl, you’ll find a snow-sure, high-alpine paradise (2,176 m) that delivers from November through April. This is where seasoned skiers and off-piste fans gravitate—wide, sweeping reds, challenging blacks, and glacier-backed views await.
On the other side the beginning of the valley, Radstadt-Altenmarkt unfolds over the sunny flanks of Hochbifang mountain. This family-oriented gem is perfect for beginners and families.
Freeride Fantasy: Powder, Routes, and Peace of Mind
If powder runs give you goosebumps, Zauchensee will leave you giddy. It’s a freeride Mecca, not just because of the snowfall, but thanks to four dedicated freeride routes—each marked and monitored for safety.
- Rosskopf and Gamskogel Ost serve up heart-racing descents.
- The Panoramahang route delivers views as dramatic as the terrain.
- The Flachauwinkl route plunges into untouched bowls and powder stashes perfect for dawn patrols.
Crucially, these aren’t just rogue tracks through tree lines. They’re officially designated, meaning they’re safe and patrolled, making this one of Austria’s most accessible off-piste offerings for intermediate to advanced skiers looking to try deep snow with peace of mind.
Radstadt-Altenmarkt: A Family Favourite for First Tracks and Lasting Memories
For families and beginner skiers, Radstadt-Altenmarkt is a picture-perfect introduction to the slopes. Nestled on Altenmarkt’s Hochbifang mountain, this charming ski area combines accessible terrain with breathtaking scenery and just the right dose of alpine adventure. With 17 km of skiable runs—including 9 km of easy blue slopes, 7 km of intermediate red, and 1 km of challenging black—there’s something for every skill level.
The heart of the area is Kemahdhöhe (1,561 m), reachable via the 10-person Hochbifang cable car. From this sunny summit, broad, clearly laid-out runs unfurl through the trees—perfect for practicing turns, cruising as a family, or simply soaking up the serene mountain atmosphere. Four lifts converge here, making navigation simple and stress-free, even for first-timers.
Young adventurers and competitive spirits alike will love the fun park with a timed course, designed to add playful thrills to your family holiday. And when it’s time to refuel, there are numerous rustic ski huts dotted across the slopes offering hearty Austrian fare and welcoming firesides—think schnitzel, strudel, and stories shared over hot chocolate.
Conveniently, the free ski bus links Radstadt-Altenmarkt with its bolder sibling resort, Zauchensee, allowing families to explore both areas with ease. Whether you’re nurturing a new love for skiing or simply looking for a gentle, scenic place to enjoy the snow, Radstadt-Altenmarkt delivers comfort, quality, and a lot of smiles per slope.
Beyond the Slopes: Spa Days & Sleigh Rides
Not every day in the mountains needs to start with a chairlift. Erlebnis-Therme Amadé, the resort’s water wonderland, is open 365 days a year, making it a genuine off-slope highlight. With 11 pools, 5 themed saunas, and 3 spectacular slides, it caters to both spa seekers and high-energy kids in equal measure.
For something more poetic, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-draped woods, or go tobogganing at night from alpine huts like Hochnössler and Winterbauer—headlamps on, laughter echoing, stars overhead.
Festive Magic & Alpine Culture
Winter in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is also rich in tradition. During the festive period (22 November–21 December 2025), the Advent.Market transforms the village into a glittering wonderland of craft stalls, warm drinks, and seasonal music. Even more magical is the Bergsee.Advent on selected December dates—an atmospheric event by the frozen mountain lake, with fairy lights, music, and culinary treats.
And come January, the slopes of Zauchensee host the Women’s Ski World Cup (8–11 Jan 2026), a thrilling spectacle capped with the unmissable Ö3 Party, one of Austria’s best celebrations.
New for 2025/26: Smoother, Smarter, More Stylish
This season, Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is levelling up:
- The “Schwarzwandbahn” lift in Zauchensee has been fully modernised—shorter waits, quicker rides, more skiing.
- The Zauchenseehof hotel, a long-time family favourite, reopens in December after a complete renovation—expect elevated comfort and kid-friendly luxury.
- Every guest receives the Guest Mobility Ticket, offering free public transport across SalzburgerLand, including your public airport transfer from Salzburg (just 70 km away).
Early Booking Wins for UK Travellers
British skiers booking early will be rewarded. Think hotel discounts, cheaper ski passes, and better flight connections. With direct services from London, Manchester, and other UK airports to Salzburg, it’s a breeze to get from runway to resort—especially when the Guest Mobility Ticket covers your onward travel.
The Final Turn
In a world of over-marketed mega resorts, Altenmarkt-Zauchensee stands out for all the right reasons. It’s not about flash or fame—it’s about balance: serious skiing and soft landings, powder days and spa nights, sled rides and schnapps by the fire.
For UK skiers—whether freeriders, first-timers, or families—this two-in-one resort offers variety, value, and an Alpine experience that goes far beyond the slopes.
This winter, make the smart choice. Discover Altenmarkt-Zauchensee—Austria’s most complete winter playground.