Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald

Nestled in the quiet heart of Styria, Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald is one of Austria’s best-kept secrets. This charming ski resort, framed by the untouched beauty of the Niedere Tauern mountains, offers an experience far from the noise and bustle of larger ski destinations. With around 32 kilometres of well-prepared slopes and an exceptional children’s ski area, Riesneralm is ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers looking for an authentic winter experience. Here, modern amenities blend seamlessly with regional traditions, all set against an unspoiled alpine backdrop.

Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald ski resort

Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald is a scenic and family-friendly ski resort tucked away in the Niedere Tauern mountains of Styria. With around 32 kilometres of slopes, the resort offers a well-balanced mix of blue, red, and black runs, perfect for beginners, intermediates, and experienced skiers alike. One of its most beloved features is Austria’s first separate children’s ski area, designed to offer a safe, fun, and imaginative space for young skiers.

The resort’s altitude ranges from 973 m to 1,820 m, guaranteeing reliable snow conditions throughout the season. Thanks to modern snowmaking systems and a high-quality grooming team, the slopes remain in excellent condition even during warmer spells. Off the pistes, a snowpark and freeride zones provide something extra for adventure seekers. Despite its high standards, Riesneralm maintains an authentic and peaceful charm, avoiding the crowds and noise often found in larger ski resorts.

Sustainable development in Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald

Riesneralm is a proud example of how a small ski resort can lead by example when it comes to sustainability. The snowmaking system uses energy-efficient technologies and relies on natural water sources with minimal ecological impact. Local hydropower and green electricity feed much of the resort’s infrastructure, while newer slope groomers operate on reduced-emission fuel or biofuel alternatives.

Sustainability isn’t just visible on the slopes—it’s part of the whole community. Local accommodations emphasize ecological construction, using natural materials like timber and stone, and many source ingredients for meals directly from nearby organic farms. Menus often feature Styrian delicacies made from local produce. Several hotels have installed solar panels and water-saving systems. Guests are encouraged to arrive by train, with connections from Liezen and shuttle services directly to Donnersbachwald helping reduce road traffic and emissions.

Unforgettable experiences in Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald

While skiing is at the heart of Riesneralm’s winter offerings, it’s far from the only thing that makes a visit special. A highlight is the “First Austrian Children’s Ski Area”, completely separated from the main pistes, offering an incredibly safe and fun space for kids to learn and play in the snow. The area includes conveyor lifts, animated mascots, and plenty of playful elements to keep children engaged.

Families can also enjoy guided snowshoe hikes to panoramic viewpoints, often ending with a warm drink in a rustic hut. Animal lovers won’t want to miss the wildlife observation tour, a guided excursion into the snowy woods to spot deer and chamois in their natural environment. In the evenings, torchlight walks bring the mountain to life in a different way, ending around a campfire or in a cozy mountain hut with traditional music and mulled wine.

Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald in summer

In the warmer months, Riesneralm transforms into a lush, green alpine paradise. Hiking trails open up across the region, offering something for every level—from family-friendly nature paths to more demanding alpine ascents. One of the most popular routes leads to the “Gipfelbad anno dazumal”, a natural mountaintop swimming pool situated at over 1,900 meters altitude. This unique attraction allows hikers to cool off while taking in panoramic views of the Ennstal Valley and Dachstein massif.

Families will love the tierHOLZpark, a themed wooden animal park with interactive play stations and learning trails. Themed hiking routes, such as the Donnersbachwald fairytale trail, combine nature with storytelling to keep young adventurers engaged. For mountain bikers, well-marked trails wind through forests and meadows, offering both technical and scenic options. The region also hosts traditional festivals in summer, celebrating Styrian music, food, and craftsmanship.

Where to stay?

JUFA Hotel Donnersbachwald ***

This family-friendly hotel is located just a few steps from the slopes and children’s area. It offers modern Alpine-style rooms, a wellness area with sauna, and a hearty breakfast buffet featuring regional ingredients. A great base for both winter and summer activities, with plenty of space for children to play.

Holzboxen Planneralm

Nestled atop the wild beauty of Planneralm, Austria’s highest ski pasture, the Holzboxen offer a one-of-a-kind overnight experience. These cozy wooden boxes combine minimalist design with panoramic views—perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small families who want to immerse themselves in the rugged mountain landscape.

Ferienhaus Sonnenhang Donnersbachwald

A spacious and well-equipped holiday chalet perfect for groups or larger families. With a private terrace, fully stocked kitchen, and warm Alpine décor, it offers both comfort and flexibility. Surrounded by nature, it provides a true home-away-from-home experience.

Riesneralm – Donnersbachwald: the resort’s main strengths

• Calm, uncrowded slopes perfect for beginners and families
• Austria’s first dedicated children’s ski area, fully separated and secure
• Spectacular snowshoe hikes and wildlife observation tours
• Eco-conscious approach with local food, green energy, and car-free access
• Unique summer attractions like the mountaintop natural pool and themed hiking trails