Austria
Silvretta Montafon is one of Austria’s major ski areas and the go-to destination for those seeking an active, sporty and varied winter holiday in the heart of the Alps. Located in the Montafon Valley in southern Vorarlberg, this resort has built its identity around a clear combination: alpine skiing, freeride, freestyle, international events, high-altitude dining experiences and a wide range of mountain activities that are not limited solely to traditional skiing.
The resort describes itself as the “most sporty ski area in Vorarlberg”, a claim that is more than just a marketing slogan. Its offering includes 140 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes, 35 ski lifts, competition areas, cross-country trails, a snow park, freeride routes, seven Black Scorpions runs and specific experiences for those who want to experience the mountains to the full from first thing in the morning until the end of the day. Added to this is a calendar of events that turns every season into a succession of sporting, musical and festive occasions.
The 2025/2026 season also marked an important milestone in the development of Silvretta Montafon. 80% of the ski area lies at an altitude of over 1,500 metres, ensuring that the ski area remains extensive and reliable throughout the winter. The resort thus focuses on a long, varied winter season aimed at both competitive skiers and those seeking mountain experiences, live music, fine dining or international events.
Silvretta Montafon: Vorarlberg’s most challenging ski area, with 140 kilometres of slopes
Silvretta Montafon is part of the major ski areas and one of the best ski resorts in Austria. Its 140 kilometres of slopes and 35 ski lifts provide a wide range of options, with different access points, long runs and areas designed for a variety of visitors. The ski area combines slopes for skiers seeking smooth runs and alpine views with areas specifically designed for competition, training, freeriding or freestyle.
One of the resort’s main attractions is its sporting character. Those looking for a challenging ski experience will find Silvretta Montafon a particularly exhilarating destination. The Race Area allows you to experience skiing with a competitive edge, with options such as parallel slalom, Speed Check, Race Cross and the Kids Race. These facilities allow visitors to experience race conditions in an accessible setting, with formats adapted to different levels.
The resort has also developed several skicross runs spread across the ski area. The Monti Lux Cross, Kids Cross and Family Cross are designed for children and families, whilst the Freeride Cross and Race Cross are aimed at more ambitious skiers who wish to test their speed, technique and reaction times on more dynamic courses. This variety explains why the ski area is not limited to traditional skiing, but offers a more playful and sporty approach to the mountains.
One of the signature challenges is the Montafon Totale Ski, an experience that encapsulates the resort’s sporting spirit. Based on the idea of never repeating a single run, the route offers 45 kilometres of skiing and 10,000 metres of cumulative vertical drop. It is designed for skiers keen to explore the ski area intensively, linking sectors, lifts and descents in a day that combines endurance with discovery.
For the most experienced skiers, the seven Black Scorpions represent the most demanding side of the ski area. These are the steepest and most challenging runs in Silvretta Montafon. Their presence reinforces the resort’s reputation as a destination for skiers seeking steep slopes, challenging runs and a more technical skiing experience.
Freeride: alpine runs, powder snow and mountain culture
Silvretta Montafon isn’t just for piste skiers. The resort also presents itself as a true freeride destination. Its four marked freeride zones and 24 marked routes offer access to a more alpine dimension of skiing, always with the understanding that this terrain demands respect, preparation and an awareness of the conditions.
The resort describes its freeride offering as a playground of challenging lines, deep snow and authentic alpine terrain. It is not merely a complement to piste skiing, but a central part of its positioning. From challenging north-facing slopes to wide couloirs and more exposed areas, Silvretta Montafon offers a playground for riders seeking powder, vertical drops and variety.
Many runs are accessible directly from the ski lifts or via short walks. This makes it particularly appealing to those who wish to combine the convenience of a large ski area with the feeling of being in adventurous terrain. The relatively direct access to untouched snow areas allows skiers to make the most of the windows of good conditions following a snowfall.
Safety is at the heart of this initiative. Silvretta Montafon features the PIEPS LVS-Suchfeld, a training area for practising with the avalanche victim locator. There, freeriders can learn or brush up on how to use the search device in realistic conditions, whether on their own, with their group or as part of a course. The resort thus reminds us that freeriding demands more than just technique: it requires training, suitable equipment and the ability to react in an emergency.
There are also LVS-Checkpoints to check that the avalanche transceiver is working properly before setting off on an off-piste run. This infrastructure reinforces the culture of safety and sends a clear message: powder snow and unmarked terrain are part of the resort’s appeal, but must always be approached responsibly.
The resort also offers guided freeride experiences. The Schruns Ski School takes visitors on excursions through the winter mountains of Silvretta Montafon, tailoring the experience to the group’s ability and selecting suitable areas depending on the conditions. This programme allows you to approach freeriding in a safer way, discovering deep snow slopes, alpine landscapes and moments of off-piste skiing with professional guidance.
The freeride identity of Silvretta Montafon is also reflected in its events. The resort hosts events such as Open Faces, OF Juniors, Powderfest and Freeride Testival, making it a meeting place for the freeride community. On 26 January 2026, the Freeride World Tour Challenger returned to the resort, with Europe’s top freeriders competing on the demanding terrain of the Zamangspitze or the smaller Heimspitze, depending on the terminology used in the event information. The event offered 2,500 ranking points for the 2027 Freeride World Tour and a cash prize, accompanied by a supporting programme featuring live viewing, DJs and activities at the Nova Stoba.
Montafon Snow Park and freestyle culture
The Montafon Snowpark is another feature that reinforces the resort’s sporting profile. Located in the Grasjoch area, it serves as the main playground for the Vorarlberg freestyle community. Over 300 metres long and featuring around 40 features, the park combines creative lines, kickers, rails, boxes and jibs, with daily grooming and varying levels of difficulty.
The park is designed for both those new to freestyle and experienced riders looking to refine their style. This versatility allows the snowpark to function as a space for progression. Beginners can find accessible features to learn new moves, whilst advanced riders have more technical lines at their disposal to practise tricks and link jumps smoothly.
Freestyle isn’t just a standalone offering at Silvretta Montafon, but part of a broader sports strategy. The resort combines snowparks, cross-country skiing, freeriding, racing and major international events, creating an ecosystem that is particularly appealing to a young, dynamic audience keen on the most visually striking winter sports.
Mountain experiences beyond conventional skiing
Silvretta Montafon also builds its offering around carefully designed mountain experiences. One of the highlights is the Hochjoch Totale, which takes place every Wednesday on the Grasjoch Bahn. Participants set off early with the guides on the first gondola and enjoy the alpine panorama before tackling Vorarlberg’s longest descent into the valley, with a vertical drop of over 1,700 metres.
This experience reflects a clear trend in mountain destinations: turning skiing into a complete experience, rather than just a series of runs. The early start, the feeling of having the mountain ahead of you, and the subsequent breakfast featuring regional specialities at the Kapellrestaurant make the Hochjoch Totale a product offering a truly memorable experience.
Every Friday, the Nova Exklusiv at the Versettla Bahn takes place. Depending on the access point, the lifts may open from 8:00 am. As with the Hochjoch Totale, the experience is rounded off with a mountain breakfast, in this case at the Nova Stoba, the largest mountain restaurant in Silvretta Montafon. These offerings allow visitors to experience the resort from a different perspective, combining exclusivity, sport and fine dining.
Off-piste, the programme also includes night-time tobogganing, winter hiking and new snow-based activities. Night-time tobogganing on the illuminated Garfrescha run is available from mid-December on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The 5.5-kilometre run winds through the snow-covered forest, offering a family-friendly and fun night-time activity. When snow conditions allow, the five-kilometre natural toboggan run at Kapell is open daily.
One of the new features this winter is the Mountaincarts at the Versettla Bahn lower station. These sturdy tricycles allow you to ride down specially prepared snow trails, offering a different kind of winter experience. Winter hiking rounds off the programme, with groomed trails that allow you to discover the tranquillity of the snow-covered landscape, the white fields and the panoramic views without having to ski.
Alpine cuisine and the refurbishment of the Kapellrestaurant
Cuisine plays a key role in Silvretta Montafon’s brand positioning. As a full-service operator, the resort manages twelve mountain restaurants, enabling it to deliver a consistent culinary experience across the entire ski area. Among these, the Nova Stoba—the resort’s largest mountain restaurant—and, in particular, the refurbished Kapellrestaurant stand out.
Situated at an altitude of 1,850 metres, the Kapellrestaurant is entering a new phase following extensive renovation and expansion. The new space combines a modern atmosphere, a fireplace, a panoramic terrace and a new wine bar & lounge called Hanglage. This area offers selected wines, culinary specialities, relaxing music and spectacular views. The idea is to provide a place where the skiing experience can be extended in the form of a culinary break, a social gathering or a moment of contemplation.
During the 2025–2026 season, from mid-February onwards, the Sundowner Session at Hanglage took place every Friday, featuring a live DJ and extended lift operating hours until 6 pm. The event turned the end of the day into a festive occasion, combining the sunset, music and the scenery.
Sports and music events throughout the season
The 2025/2026 season in Silvretta Montafon was marked by a packed programme of events. The Ski Opening Montafon kicked off the season with a mix of sport, entertainment and live music in a high-mountain setting.
On 17 January 2026, the Mountain Beats Festival kicked off the season of major music events. For the third time, renowned DJs will be performing at the Valisera Bahn mountain station, marking the start of a series of concerts and parties that will run until the end of winter.
The Long Nights of the Cable Cars add a whole new dimension to the experience. The mountain comes alive at night with music, food and special activities. The facilities are open free of charge between 6.00 pm and 9.30 pm. Depending on the location, visitors can enjoy fire shows, live music, torchlit descents and a snow groomer display.
In March and April, the music programme took centre stage with concerts by popular artists. Admission to these concerts is usually free, although VIP tickets are available for those wishing to enjoy a dining experience featuring a Weißwurst breakfast, a flying buffet, snacks, and wine and prosecco bars in an exclusive area.
The end of the season also tends to have a festive atmosphere. On 11 April, DJ Paul hosted the Forever 80s Party at the Nova Stoba, playing classics such as ‘99 Luftballons’ and ‘Eye of the Tiger’. This was followed by the big winter raffle, featuring various prizes and a top prize of €10,000 in cash. The scheme is based on accumulating days of skiing recorded in Silvretta Montafon: every day recorded enters the prize draw.
2026 Montafon World Cup: a major dress rehearsal ahead of the World Championships
From 11 to 15 March 2026, Montafon once again took centre stage in the international winter sports calendar with the Montafon World Cup. The event brought together the best snowboard cross athletes and, for the first time in six years, the world’s elite ski cross athletes at a World Cup event in Montafon.
The Grasjoch, within the Silvretta Montafon resort, is now an established venue for the international elite of the FIS Snowboard Cross World Cup. Its demanding course, in terms of both length and terrain, already meets the requirements for the 2027 World Championships. This means we can look forward to fast heats, closely contested duels and high-calibre finals.
The Ski Austria team included athletes with links to Vorarlberg such as Sonja Gigler, Nicolas Lussnig and Claudio Andreatta, as well as Katrin Ofner, Johannes Aujesky and Adam Kappacher. The presence of these names reinforces the event’s regional ties and its international scope.
On the road to the 2027 FIS World Championships
The 2026 Montafon World Cup also had strategic significance: it served as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 FIS World Championships in Snowboarding, Freestyle and Freeskiing. This major event will take place from 6 to 21 March 2027 and will be:
“The biggest winter sports event in Vorarlberg’s history”
The resort and the valley took an important symbolic step on 30 March 2025, during the closing ceremony of the FIS World Championships in Snowboarding, Freestyle and Freeski held in St. Moritz. At that event, Montafon was officially welcomed as the host of the 2027 Championships through the symbolic handover of the FIS flag to the Vice-President of the Austrian Ski Federation, Stefan Jochum, and the Montafon delegation.
The delegation was represented by Manuel Bitschnau, Managing Director of Montafon Tourismus; Peter Marko, Managing Director of Silvretta Montafon; and Christian Speckle, Project Manager for WM27. This marked the formal start of preparations for one of the biggest sporting events ever held in Vorarlberg.
Stefan Jochum then emphasised the excitement at hosting an event of this calibre in Montafon and highlighted the desire to make the World Championships a unique experience, capable of inspiring younger generations to take up freestyle and snowboarding. Mario Stecher, sporting director of the Austrian Federation, described the 2027 World Championships as
“A spectacle for all sports fans, featuring performances by the world’s top athletes in one of Austria’s most beautiful regions.”
For Montafon, the event represents a sporting, tourist and institutional milestone. Manuel Bitschnau emphasised that the 2027 World Championships will be the largest winter sports competition ever held in Vorarlberg and a unique opportunity to boost Montafon’s international profile, as well as to further develop the region as a sustainable winter destination.
The valley already has experience in hosting major events. Since 2012, Silvretta Montafon has hosted FIS Snowboard World Cup events. Furthermore, the region has organised Snowboard Cross and Ski Cross competitions, as well as the 2015 EYOF, the European Youth Olympic Festival. The award of the 2027 World Championships confirms this track record and validates both the existing infrastructure and the valley’s future tourism strategy.
During the 2027 World Championships, the Grasjoch will serve as the main venue, but it will not be the only one. In total, a further five sports facilities spread across the valley will be used. This arrangement will allow activities to be spread throughout the Montafon region and will reinforce the event’s regional scope.
Epic Pass: expanding into new international markets
Silvretta Montafon has taken a significant step towards internationalisation by joining the Epic Pass scheme. This partnership allows Epic Pass holders to enjoy up to five consecutive days of free skiing at the resort. Silvretta Montafon’s entry into this ecosystem connects the Vorarlberg ski area with an international network of over 80 ski resorts.
For Epic Pass holders, the resort is presented as an alpine gateway in the heart of Europe. The message is clear: anyone who already has this pass can use it at a destination that combines challenging terrain, authentic alpine charm, reliable snow and a location that is easily accessible from international markets.
The information provided states that holders of a valid Epic Pass should go to the ticket office, present their pass, and will be entitled to up to five consecutive days of free skiing during the winter season. Meanwhile, WildPass holders benefit from a 50% discount at all Vail Resorts destinations worldwide.
The station also provides practical information for international visitors, particularly those travelling from the United States. US citizens may enter Austria without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. To enter without a visa, you must hold a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure.
Accessibility from international airports is another key factor. From Zurich Airport, the journey to Silvretta Montafon can be made by public transport in approximately two to three hours. The recommended route goes via Zurich HB and Bludenz, before taking the Montafonerbahn to Schruns/Montafon and, if necessary, the local valley buses. The approximate cost is between 30 and 50 euros for a single journey. There is also the option of a private shuttle, which takes approximately one hour and forty-five minutes and costs between 300 and 400 euros per vehicle, an attractive alternative for groups.
From Munich Airport, the journey by public transport takes approximately three to four hours. The journey involves taking the S-Bahn to Munich Central Station, then a train to Innsbruck and Bludenz, followed by the Montafonerbahn to Schruns/Montafon. The approximate cost is between €20 and €80 for a single journey. A private shuttle is also an option, with prices ranging from €300 to €400 per vehicle.
Villages, accommodation and life in the valley
The Silvretta Montafon experience isn’t limited to the mountains. The valley comprises various resorts, each with its own character. Schruns is presented as the heart of the Montafon and as an ideal gateway to the ski area thanks to the Hochjoch Bahn and the Zamang Bahn. Its range of events, leisure activities, culture, restaurants and shops makes it a particularly convenient base for those wishing to combine skiing, local life and amenities.
St. Gallenkirch and Gortipohl offer direct access to the ski area. The Valisera, Grasjoch and Garfrescha ski lifts provide quick and easy access to the mountains. These villages combine ski slopes, toboggan runs, winter walking trails, traditional charm and welcoming facilities.
Gaschurn-Partenen rounds off the valley’s offering with a reputation for high-quality alpine tourism. The Versettla Bahn provides a direct link to the ski area, whilst the village offers a lively après-ski scene and an authentic local atmosphere.
When it comes to accommodation, Silvretta Montafon highlights two specific options. The Sporthotel Silvretta Montafon in Gaschurn is presented as a haven of well-being and comfort. The Josefsheim, meanwhile, is described as a young, modern and bold concept, combining a restaurant, bar and hostel. These two options cater to different types of visitor: from those seeking a more comprehensive hotel experience to those who prefer accommodation with a more informal and contemporary feel.
Easy access, electric mobility and the Green Ticket
Accessibility is one of Silvretta Montafon’s key selling points. The resort is just 20 minutes from the motorway and does not require crossing any mountain passes. This makes it easier to get there in winter and reduces the uncertainty associated with more challenging journeys through the Alps.
Thanks to its location close to Germany and Switzerland, Silvretta Montafon is the premier ski resort for visitors from Baden-Württemberg, Switzerland and the Netherlands. Good road links mean the valley can be reached quickly and without the need for snow chains under normal conditions.
The resort has also upgraded its infrastructure for electric vehicles. Silvretta Park Montafon is home to Vorarlberg’s largest e-ladegarage, with 50 charging points in a 600-space underground car park. This car park is connected to the Valisera Bahn by escalators, allowing visitors to transfer quickly from their car to the cable car.
For those wishing to travel in a more climate-friendly way, Silvretta Montafon offers the Green Ticket. This ticket can be booked online and includes a ski pass and travel on public transport from Vorarlberg, as well as from border stations in Tyrol, Germany and Switzerland: St. Anton, Lindau, Buchs and St. Margrethen. In addition, users receive a 10% discount on equipment hire and a free ski wax service.
Operational innovation: partnership with Lindner
The modernisation of the infrastructure is not limited to ski lifts or visitor transport. Silvretta Montafon has entered into a partnership with the Austrian manufacturer Lindner Traktoren to use the specialised Lintrac vehicle for alpine tasks throughout the year. This partnership reinforces the resort’s commitment to modern, efficient and sustainable solutions in the management of the ski area.
In winter, the Lintrac is used to prepare the Kapell toboggan run and certain winter hiking trails on the Hochjoch. Thanks to its four-wheel steering and excellent manoeuvrability, the vehicle is particularly well suited to narrow routes and challenging terrain. The aim is to ensure consistent grooming, greater safety and a reliable offering for winter activities away from the ski slopes.
During the summer, the Lintrac is integrated into the resort’s day-to-day operations. It is used for clearing work on the slopes, as a transport vehicle on difficult terrain, and for logistical and service tasks related to snowmaking. Fitted with a front loader and a passenger basket, it also assists with the maintenance of snow guns. For summer use, it is fitted with twin wheels, which improve ground protection and provide additional stability.
Mario Tschofen, head of piste and snow operations at Silvretta Montafon, highlights that the Lintrac is well suited to the needs of the Alpine region as it is compact, powerful and flexible. Martin Oberhammer, the resort’s general manager, regards the partnership with Lindner as an important step towards making year-round operations in the high mountains more efficient and sustainable. On behalf of Lindner, David Lindner emphasises that Silvretta Montafon represents a professional and demanding environment in which the Lintrac can demonstrate its versatility.
A full-service tour operator in Vorarlberg
Silvretta Montafon is not just a ski resort. The company operates as a comprehensive provider of mountain tourism services. It runs two ski schools, twelve mountain restaurants, nine interconnected Intersport hire shops, the Sporthotel Silvretta Montafon and the Hostel St. Josefsheim.
With around 860 employees in winter and around 270 in summer, Silvretta Montafon is also Vorarlberg’s largest tourism operator. This scale enables it to coordinate the visitor experience in an integrated manner, from equipment hire to catering, accommodation, events, ski schools and mountain services.
The resort also recommends using the Silvretta Montafon app, which brings together information on routes, hotels, excursions, events and regional dining options. This tool is in line with the philosophy of a destination that aims to make planning easier and enhance the visitor experience both before and during their stay.
A resort for those who want to experience the mountains to the full
Silvretta Montafon positions itself as a resort for those seeking more than just skiing down perfectly groomed slopes. It offers a blend of sport, competition, freeriding, freestyle, fine dining, music, international events, sunrise experiences, tobogganing, winter hiking and a clear commitment to welcoming visitors from around the world.
Its inclusion in the Epic Pass opens the resort up to a global audience, whilst the 2027 FIS World Championships reinforce its role in the international winter sports calendar.
The resort has plenty to offer: 140 kilometres of slopes, 35 lifts, reliable snow from November to April, 80% of the ski area above 1,500 metres, four freeride zones, 24 marked routes, seven Black Scorpions, a top-notch snowpark, cross-country trails for all levels, a revamped culinary offering and an exceptionally packed programme of events.
All of this paints a clear picture of the destination: Silvretta Montafon is a large-scale Alpine resort with a strong sporting DNA, excellent accessibility, an international appeal and a programme that combines the thrill of competition with the full mountain experience. For competitive skiers, freeriders, active families, freestyle enthusiasts, fans of major events and visitors seeking an action-packed winter in Austria, Silvretta Montafon stands out as one of Vorarlberg’s most comprehensive destinations.
