Mention St Anton and chances are it won’t be long before someone brings up the Krazy Kanguruh, or the Mooserwirt. The slopeside bars have been the scene of many a memorable night for decades. But St Anton’s reputation is down to much more than its vibrant après scene. With its onion-domed churches, traditional chalets and fresco-painted buildings, it’s the quintessential Austrian resort. It’s also the country’s largest linked ski area, the Arlberg, which packs 305km of pistes, mostly in the intermediate range. For the ambitious and the bold, there’s plenty of challenges, including the 85km Run of Fame, a route which begins in St Anton, crosses three mountain passes, and finishes in Warth.
As one of Austria’s premier party towns, things can get busy in peak periods – which is why if you’re a complete beginner, it’s often recommended to go when the slopes are a bit quieter. Things usually calm down a bit from March onwards, with Christmas, New Year, February and Easter being high season. Officially the resort opens early December and runs until mid April. With skiing up to 2,800m it’s one of Austria’s most snow-sure resorts and if the snow gods fail, there are snow cannons throughout to ensure reliable coverage.
Things to do in St Anton
For the ultimate skiing-in-Austria feeling, step aboard a horse-drawn carriage, pull the woollen blankets tight and enjoy a tour of the town. After a fresh snowfall, it doesn’t get much more magical. Non (alpine) skiing activities in the area include cross-country skiing, which can be like a gentle walk or a heart-thumping aerobic work-out and snowshoeing. This being Austria, saunas (and cold water plunges) are found in most decent hotels – just remember to follow the house rules! St Anton’s reputation for a good night out precedes it. What’s lesser known is that the resort is also home to some very fine restaurants.
Hotels & Apartments in St Anton
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