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Reliable snow resort
Stunning views
Best amenities
Backcountry (off-trail) skiing
Great après-skiReliable snow resortStunning viewsBest amenitiesBackcountry (off-trail) skiingGreat après-skiReliable snow resortStunning viewsBest amenitiesBackcountry (off-trail) skiingGreat après-skiReliable snow resortStunning viewsBest amenitiesBackcountry (off-trail) skiingGreat après-skiLocated in Austria, Sölden’s snow-sure ski area is made up of 'the big 3' mountain peaks reaching higher than 9840 ft (9840 ft), 2 glacier ski areas and 90 miles of stunning slopes making it one big, snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders of every level. The Rettenbachfern and Tiefenbachfern glaciers offer reliable snow conditions from as early as late September to May and are known for their sunny weather and crisp bluebird days. For something different to do off the slopes, you can admire the traditional timber-framed buildings, visit the lively pubs, clubs and restaurants or even immerse yourself in the 007 Elements Exhibition which boasts the role of Sölden in the James Bond film Spectre. Sölden is often referred to as the 'Ibiza' of the Alps due to the impressive choice of après-ski spots.
Located in Austria, Sölden’s snow-sure ski area is made up of 'the big 3' mountain peaks reaching higher than 9840 ft (9840 ft), 2 glacier ski areas and 90 miles of stunning slopes making it one big, snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders of every level. The Rettenbachfern and Tiefenbachfern glaciers offer reliable snow conditions from as early as late September to May and are known for their sunny weather and crisp bluebird days. For something different to do off the slopes, you can admire the traditional timber-framed buildings, visit the lively pubs, clubs and restaurants or even immerse yourself in the 007 Elements Exhibition which boasts the role of Sölden in the James Bond film Spectre. Sölden is often referred to as the 'Ibiza' of the Alps due to the impressive choice of après-ski spots.
Skiing in Sölden feels expansive and rewarding. The mountain layout spreads across three distinct peaks - Gaislachkogl, Tiefenbachkogl, and Schwarze Schneide - connected by lifts that create a natural flow across the terrain. On a clear day, the views from the upper slopes are breathtaking, with glaciated peaks stretching to the horizon. The pistes here are well-groomed and wide, perfect for building speed on long, sweeping descents. There's a sense of space that smaller resorts can't match, and the altitude keeps conditions consistent throughout the season.
Each sector has its own character. The Giggijoch area is the main hub, with easy access from the village and a mix of cruising blues and reds. Gaislachkogl feels more dramatic - the glacier terrain here is where you'll find the steeper pitches and off-piste opportunities. Tiefenbachkogl, accessible via one of Europe's highest road tunnels, offers quieter slopes and reliable snow, even when lower areas are struggling.
Sölden isn't traditionally thought of as a beginner's resort, but there's more here for new skiers than first impressions suggest. The Innerwald area at the base offers gentle, wide runs where first-timers can build confidence away from faster traffic. Once you've found your balance, the blues around Giggijoch provide the next step up - long, forgiving pistes with consistent gradients that let you focus on technique without nasty surprises. The lift system is modern and smooth, making the transition from carpet lifts to gondolas less intimidating than at older resorts.
WeSki insider tip: Start your first few days on the Innerwald slopes before venturing higher. The snow conditions stay forgiving, and you'll avoid the crowds heading straight for the glacier.
Confident intermediates will find Sölden genuinely rewarding. The resort's 19 intermediate runs offer kilometre after kilometre of well-maintained reds and cruising blues, with enough variety to keep a week interesting. The run from Gaislachkogl down to the valley is a highlight - over 1,500m of vertical on a single descent, with the gradient pitching up just enough to keep things engaging. Glacier slopes add another dimension, with wide-open terrain and views that make you stop mid-run just to take it in.
WeSki insider tip: Take the Golden Gate to the Top chairlift for access to runs that see less traffic. The pistes here stay in better condition later in the day, and the views across to Italy are spectacular.
For advanced skiers, Sölden delivers. The 14 red runs and 7 black runs include some properly testing terrain, with the blacks off Gaislachkogl and Schwarze Schneide demanding respect. The World Cup piste on Rettenbachferner hosts the season's opening giant slalom for good reason - it's steep, relentless, and rewards precise technique. Off-piste, the glaciated terrain opens up serious touring and freeride potential, though the crevasse risk means a guide is essential for anything beyond the marked routes.
WeSki insider tip: The itinerary routes marked on the piste map aren't patrolled but offer controlled off-piste experiences. Try route 31 from Schwarze Schneide when conditions allow - it's a proper adventure.
Sölden embraces snowboarding culture. Two terrain parks - the main park at Giggijoch and the glacier park at Tiefenbachkogl - cater to all levels, from first-time jumpers to serious freestyle riders. Sölden's natural terrain suits boarders well, with plenty of natural hits and wide pistes that hold their shape. The lift system is almost entirely gondola and chairlift-based, so there's no trudging through flat sections dragging your back foot.
The glaciated terrain around Sölden offers genuine backcountry potential. The Rettenbachferner and Tiefenbachferner glaciers provide access to high-alpine touring routes, while the north-facing slopes off Gaislachkogl hold powder long after a storm. However, this is serious mountain terrain - crevasses, avalanche risk, and rapidly changing weather demand proper preparation. Hire a certified guide through one of the local mountain schools if you're venturing beyond the marked pistes.
Several ski schools operate in Sölden, with the main schools - Sölden-Hochsölden, Yellow Power, and Vacancia - all offering English-speaking instruction. Group and private lessons cater to all abilities, from complete beginners to those wanting to refine their off-piste technique. Children's programmes are well-established, with dedicated learning areas and age-appropriate teaching methods.
Sölden runs two terrain parks. The Area 47 Snowpark at Giggijoch features lines from beginner to pro, with regular shaping keeping the features in prime condition. The glacier park at Tiefenbachkogl opens earlier in the season and stays rideable into spring, making it a training ground for professional riders. Both parks include jump lines, rail sections, and creative features that evolve throughout the season.
Sölden works well for families, though it suits those with children who've moved beyond the very first stages of learning. The Innerwald area provides a protected learning zone with gentle slopes, moving carpets, and dedicated children's instructors who make the early days fun rather than frustrating. Once kids gain confidence, the mountain opens up - the well-connected lift system means the whole family can explore together without anyone getting left behind.
Teenagers often find Sölden particularly engaging. The terrain parks give them a focus, the long descents build stamina, and there's enough going on in the village to keep them entertained after skiing. Younger children benefit from the BOBO children's club, which combines ski instruction with snow play and indoor activities. The village layout keeps everything compact - restaurants, equipment shops, and the main lifts are all within easy walking distance of most accommodation.
For non-skiing days, the Aqua Dome spa complex in nearby Längenfeld offers pools, slides, and wellness facilities that appeal across age groups. Tobogganing runs, winter walks, and the striking ice Q architectural attraction provide alternatives when little legs need a rest from skiing. Family-friendly restaurants are easy to find, with most offering children's menus and relaxed atmospheres.
Sölden has invested heavily in experiences beyond the pistes, making rest days and non-skiing companions well catered for. The dramatic mountain setting, modern infrastructure, and excellent transport links mean you can fill a week without repeating yourself. From high-altitude dining with glacier views to world-class spa facilities in the valley, Sölden rewards exploration.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Sölden offers a full range of winter activities that make the most of its alpine setting:
For days when you want to step away from the slopes entirely, Sölden and the surrounding Ötztal Valley offer plenty of diversions:
Sölden's dining scene has evolved well beyond standard mountain fare. While you'll still find plenty of hearty Tyrolean classics, the resort has attracted chefs who bring ambition and creativity to high-altitude cooking. Whether you're after a refined tasting menu with glacier views or a steaming plate of dumplings after a hard day on the slopes, Sölden delivers.
WeSki insider tip: Try Tiroler Gröstl - a hearty skillet of fried potatoes, beef, and onions topped with a fried egg. Best enjoyed on a sunny mountain terrace with a cold Stiegl beer.
Sölden has earned its reputation as one of Austria's premier après-ski destinations, and it works hard to maintain it. The scene kicks off on the mountain itself - umbrella bars at the base of the main lifts fill with skiers still in boots, music building as the afternoon light fades. By 4pm, the party is in full swing, with DJs, dancing, and a celebratory atmosphere that sets the tone for the evening ahead.
The village keeps the energy going well into the night. After dark, the main street transforms with bars and clubs competing for attention. If you want to dance on tables until the early hours, Sölden will oblige. But there's range here too - quieter wine bars, sophisticated hotel lounges, and relaxed pubs provide alternatives for those who prefer conversation over bass drops. The atmosphere is friendly rather than aggressive, and the mix of nationalities creates a genuinely international vibe.
Après-ski spots to know:
Accommodation in Sölden ranges from simple guesthouses to luxury spa hotels, with the majority clustered in the main village or the quieter satellite of Hochsölden above. The village centre puts you within walking distance of the main Giggijoch gondola, restaurants, and nightlife - convenient, but expect some noise during peak après-ski hours. Hochsölden sits at around 2,080m with ski-in/ski-out access and a calmer atmosphere, though you'll rely on the lifts to reach the village.
Four and five-star hotels dominate the higher end, many with wellness facilities that rival standalone spas. Apartments and self-catering options are available but less prevalent than in some Austrian resorts. The compact village layout means most accommodation sits within a 10-minute walk of the main lifts, with regular ski buses connecting outlying properties.
The Sölden ski pass covers all 31 lifts and 141.5km of pistes, including both glacier areas. For longer stays, the Ötztal Superskipass extends access to Obergurgl-Hochgurgl and several smaller areas in the valley.
Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Sölden ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.
Equipment rental shops line the village centre, with Intersport, Sport Brugger, and several independent operators offering everything from beginner packages to high-performance demo skis. Pre-booking is advisable during busy periods, and many shops offer overnight storage so you can head straight to the slopes each morning. Boot fitting services help ensure comfort over long ski days.
The village centre is compact and walkable, with the main gondola, restaurants, and shops concentrated along a single main street. A ski bus connects the wider resort area, running regularly throughout the day and into the evening. During peak times, the buses fill up quickly, so factor in waiting time or consider walking if your accommodation is within reasonable distance.
Taxis are available but should be booked in advance during busy periods. The link between Rettenbachferner and Tiefenbachferner glaciers requires a short bus transfer through the mountain tunnel.
Sölden sits in Austria's Ötztal Valley, accessible from several airports. Innsbruck is the closest at around 80km, with Salzburg approximately 260km and Munich around 220km. The valley road is well-maintained in winter, though snow chains or winter tyres are essential. Train travellers can reach Ötztal station on the Innsbruck-Bregenz line, with bus connections continuing to Sölden.
WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private and shared transfers to Sölden. Add them to your Sölden ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.
Sölden can work for beginners, though it's not the most obvious choice. The Innerwald area at the base provides gentle learning terrain, and the ski schools have excellent English-speaking instructors. However, the resort's strength lies in its intermediate and advanced terrain. For complete beginners, smaller resorts may offer a more focused experience; for those with a few days' skiing under their belt, Sölden offers room to progress.
Sölden's glacier access means the season typically runs from October through to May - one of the longest in the Alps. The glaciers provide reliable snow even when lower resorts struggle, while the north-facing slopes above the village hold conditions well throughout the winter. Peak weeks around Christmas, New Year, and February half-term bring crowds and higher prices, while January and March often offer quieter slopes and excellent conditions.
Both are serious Austrian ski destinations, but they attract slightly different crowds. Sölden's glacier skiing and altitude advantage provide more reliable snow, while St. Anton offers a larger interconnected ski area with more challenging terrain. Sölden's après-ski is lively but slightly more contained; St. Anton's is legendary and can dominate the resort atmosphere. For families and intermediates, Sölden often feels more accessible; serious experts may prefer St. Anton's steeper options.
Sölden sits in the mid-to-upper range for Austrian resorts. Accommodation, lift passes, and dining reflect its position as a well-developed resort with modern infrastructure. That said, you can find value - self-catering apartments, early booking discounts, and weekday visits help manage costs. The resort isn't cheap, but the quality of the ski area and facilities generally justify the investment.
Sölden's après-ski has a well-earned reputation. The scene starts on the mountain itself, with umbrella bars at Giggijoch filling up from mid-afternoon. Once the lifts close, the party moves into the village - Philipp and Fire & Ice are institutions, with dancing continuing well into the early hours. The atmosphere is energetic but generally friendly, with a good mix of nationalities. If you prefer quieter evenings, alternatives exist, but the party scene is very much part of Sölden's identity.
Not directly on skis. Sölden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl are separate ski areas, though both are covered by the Ötztal Superskipass. You'll need to drive or take a bus between them - around 15km through the valley. Each area is substantial enough to fill a week on its own, so most visitors base themselves in one and perhaps take a day trip to the other.
Mayrhofen - Niederau - St. Anton - Saalbach - Kitzbühel - Kaprun - Kaltenbach - Ischgl - Serfaus - Tux - Wagrain - Zell am Ziller - St Johann im Pongau - Lech Zürs - See - Grossarl - Maria Alm - Gerlos - Flachau - Galtür - Ellmau - Scheffau - Söll - Going am Wilden Kaiser - Bad Gastein - Bad Hofgastein - Filzmoos - Obergurgl-Hochgurgl - Zell am See - St Johann in Tirol - Westendorf - Seefeld - Obertauern - Kappl - Alpbach
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