Bad Gastein is a historic spa town with a lively atmosphere and fantastic skiing. Located at 1,080m, the resort is part of the Ski Amadé area, which offers a whopping 760km of skiable terrain. Bad Gastein also boasts a unique Felsen Thermal Spa, where you can soak tired muscles after a day on the slopes, and breathtaking views of the Gastein Valley.
With a well-organised lift system linked to the neighbouring resorts of Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein, there’s plenty of terrain to explore. Bad Gastein offers diverse ski runs suitable for beginners through to advanced skiers, as well as options for off-piste skiing and snowparks. Read on for a comprehensive guide to skiing in Bad Gastein.
Bad Gastein Ski Area
The ski area in Bad Gastein is made up of four main areas; Stubnerkogel, Graukogel, Sportgastein and Schlossalm, all offering different experiences. The Bad Gastein ski area consists of 88km of runs, with 20% being blue, 65% red, and 15% black.
Beginner Skiing in Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein offers a welcoming environment for beginner skiers, with its gentle nursery slopes and wide, easy runs. There are two main beginner areas, one at the bottom of the Stubnerkogel lift and another at the top. Progressing from the nursery slopes, beginners can explore the ‘blue’ areas like the Angertal ski centre. If you’re still building your confidence on the slopes, take the lifts back down to the resort. Bad Gastein also offers excellent ski instructors who can guide beginners to the most suitable areas and help them improve their skiing technique.
Intermediate Skiing in Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is a paradise for intermediate skiers, with a variety of blue and red runs to explore. The Stubnerkogel area is a hotspot for intermediate skiers, offering wide, cruisy blues and challenging reds. For the more adventurous, try the Hohe Scharte run, the longest downhill run in the East Alps, stretching a thrilling 10.4km from top to bottom. Keep in mind, though, that the grading system in Bad Gastein is slightly more challenging compared to other Austrian resorts.
Advanced Skiing in Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is a haven for advanced skiers, with some steep and challenging runs. The Graukogel area, known for its difficult black runs, is a must-visit. The World Cup run, a steep and thrilling black run, is a favourite amongst advanced skiers. Additionally, the “Kreuzkogel” run in Sportgastein, with its steep incline and challenging terrain, will test the skills of even the most experienced skiers.
Off-piste Skiing in Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein offers some excellent off-piste skiing opportunities. The Sportgastein area, the highest of the Gastein Valley, has the best off-piste terrain where advanced skiers can explore deep snow and steep chutes. Always remember that venturing off-piste should be done with a qualified guide to ensure safety.
Snowparks in Bad Gastein
If you’re into freestyling, the snowpark in Bad Gastein, located on the Stubnerkogel, offers various jumps, boxes and rails for all levels. The park is well-maintained and provides a great environment for those looking to try some tricks.
Conclusion
No matter your skill level, Bad Gastein has something for every skier. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs and exciting off-piste options, this resort has it all. We recommend booking a ski instructor to help you explore the best runs for your ability and ensure you get the most out of your skiing experience.