Badgastein Ski Resort
The highest resort in the Gastein Valley is the perfect base from which to explore the Ski Amade region, with its intermediate-friendly slopes and excellent spas.
With its impressive ski area, incredible array of spa facilities and easy access from Salzburg, it's no surprise Badgastein is a popular choice for skiers. Extensive snowmaking has improved snow reliability in the region markedly in recent years, plus the high-altitude Sportgastein slopes are little more than a short bus ride away from town.
A lot of money has been invested into the lifts and slopes in recent years, including the impressive revamp of the Schlossalm sector above the next door village of Bad Hofgastein. You'll spend most of your time on high capacity gondolas (which can also download if the snow isn't great lower down at the start or end of the season) or fast chairlifts, making it very easy to clock up the miles. The only issue here is for advanced and expert skiers, who may find their options limited, especially if there is little off piste terrain available.
As mentioned, the town is almost as famous for its thermal spas as it is for skiing and there are so many to choose from – ranging from small, family-run affairs to vast, luxury hotel-run facilities. The town itself is bustling, especially at weekends, and there is a good range of accommodation and restaurant options – most hotels of course have spa facilities too!
Resort website: www.gastein.com
