Sportgastein

At the very end of the Gastein Valley, nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Hohe Tauern, lies Sportgastein—one of Austria’s highest and most untouched ski areas. With raw alpine beauty, wide glacier-like slopes, and a backcountry spirit, this resort is a hidden gem for those who seek freedom on the snow and a deep connection with the mountains. It’s wild, elevated, and refreshingly authentic.

Sportgastein ski resort

Sportgastein is the highest ski area in the Gasteinertal, reaching up to 2,686 meters above sea level. While smaller in size compared to its neighbors, it offers immense alpine character, with broad natural slopes and some of the most reliable snow conditions in the region.

Here, you’ll find around 25 kilometers of pistes, but they’re wide, open, and surrounded by dramatic scenery. Ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers, Sportgastein’s terrain feels like freeriding within the safety of a ski area. The resort is also a favorite among ski tourers and off-piste enthusiasts, with several marked and monitored routes that start directly from the lift.

It’s quieter than mainstream resorts, making for a peaceful and often uncrowded skiing experience. But don’t let its serenity fool you—this is a serious mountain environment with real high-alpine energy.

Sportgastein is part of the Ski amadé network, meaning one pass gives you access to five regions and 760 kilometers of slopes, including the entire Gastein Valley (Dorfgastein, Bad Hofgastein, and Bad Gastein).

Sustainable development in Sportgastein

Being located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, environmental protection is a top priority at Sportgastein. The resort operates under strict ecological regulations, ensuring that development respects the natural surroundings.

Lifts and snowmaking systems are powered by renewable energy, and water for artificial snow comes from sustainable sources with minimal disruption to the landscape. Due to its high altitude, Sportgastein often requires less artificial snow than lower-lying resorts—another environmental advantage.

The local community emphasizes green transport, with ski buses connecting the area efficiently and thermal hotels in Bad Gastein offering eco-certified lodging, regional menus, and reduced plastic use.

Tourism here has a lighter footprint, and that makes the experience all the more meaningful.

Unforgettable experiences in Sportgastein

Sportgastein is a place where nature takes the lead. The high plateau where the slopes begin is surrounded by dramatic peaks, wide valleys, and absolute silence. On a bluebird day, the views stretch across the Tauern range—white summits rising in every direction.

The resort is a dream for freeriders and ski tourers. Guided tours lead to untouched powder fields and scenic backcountry routes. Even on the marked trails, the feeling of vastness is unmatched. There are few crowds, so you have space to ski at your rhythm.

After skiing, head to a traditional hut for a hearty meal, or visit nearby Bad Gastein, known for its Belle Époque architecture, thermal spas, and art scene. You can unwind in warm thermal waters while snowflakes fall outside—an experience as relaxing as it is surreal.

Sportgastein in summer

In summer, Sportgastein becomes a paradise for hikers, mountaineers, and nature lovers. Alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers, marmots whistle from rocky ledges, and countless trails crisscross the mountainsides.

The Nassfeld Valley, where the resort is located, is one of the most pristine alpine valleys in Austria. It offers scenic walks to waterfalls, glacier viewpoints, and ancient mining sites. Huts along the trails serve homemade food, butter churned on-site, and Kaiserschmarrn cooked on wood stoves.

The area is also ideal for e-mountain biking, wildlife watching, and even trail running. And thanks to the altitude, the air is crisp and refreshing all summer long.

Where to stay?

Natura Hotel Miramonte (Bad Gastein) ****

A stylish alpine retreat blending modern design with vintage charm. Offers yoga, spa treatments, organic cuisine, and panoramic views. A top choice for creatives and couples.

Hotel Salzburger Hof (Bad Gastein) ****

Classic elegance meets wellness luxury. Just a short ride from Sportgastein, this hotel offers pools, saunas, and fine dining—all with a view of the Gastein mountains.

Landhotel Römerhof (Dorfgastein) ****

A family-run hotel known for its warm hospitality and traditional style. Cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and easy access to the valley’s ski bus network.

Sportgastein: the resort’s main strengths

• One of the highest ski areas in Ski amadé (up to 2,686 m)
• Ideal for freeriders, off-piste skiers, and ski tourers
• Breathtaking alpine scenery in the Hohe Tauern National Park
• Quiet, uncrowded slopes with wide-open terrain
• Strong snow reliability and minimal artificial snow needed
• Access to the full Ski amadé network (760 km of slopes)
• Sustainable operations within protected nature zones
• Proximity to Bad Gastein’s spas, art, and architecture
• Authentic alpine feel, far from mass tourism
• Summer hiking and nature experiences in a pristine valley