Skiing and snowboarding in Mayrhofen feels like having two resorts in one. Expect varied terrain across two distinct mountains: long, challenging steeps and terrain parks on the Penken side, and wide, gentle cruising on the Ahorn side. The resort's 1,870m vertical drop is impressive on its own, and the Zillertal pass opens up enormous additional terrain.

With 61 lifts that include gondolas and high-speed six-packs, you'll spend more time here skiing than queuing. Whether you're just learning, pushing your skills to the next level, or want the challenge of Harakiri, Mayrhofen suits skiers of all levels.

Skiing for beginners in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen gives beginners a proper introduction to the sport. To start, you can head straight to Ahorn, where a dedicated beginner area provides gentle slopes with stunning valley views that'll make those first turns feel special. Ahorn tends to stay quieter than Penken - and separated from faster traffic - making it perfect for nervous first-timers who want space to practise in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Once you've mastered the basics, progressing to longer blue runs that wind their way down is quite straightforward. The 5.5 km valley run gives you a real sense of achievement when you're ready for it. English-speaking instruction is also standard here, and the Austrian teaching tradition emphasises solid technique from the start.

Intermediate skiing in Mayrhofen

The Penken area serves up a brilliant mix of reds and blues that'll keep intermediates entertained for days. 17 intermediate runs offer variety - from wide groomers to narrower, more technical descents through the trees.

Long, sweeping, and well-groomed runs let you build speed and rhythm, while the terrain naturally encourages slightly steeper sections as your confidence grows. The connection to Finkenberg and Hippach across the Penken area adds even more terrain.

WeSki insider tip: The runs off the Horbergbahn tend to be less crowded than those directly above the village, and the snow often holds better on the north-facing slopes here.

Advanced and expert skiing in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen doesn't mess about when it comes to challenging terrain. The Harakiri piste has a 78% gradient at its steepest, and is Austria's most demanding groomed run and a true test of technique. Beyond this headline act, you'll find 26 advanced and 13 expert runs that reward good skiing with sustained steep pitches and varied terrain.

The Penken area offers the most demanding on-piste skiing, while the Hintertux Glacier (accessible on the Zillertal Superskipass) provides year-round snow and high-alpine descents. Off-piste opportunities open up after fresh snowfall, particularly in the bowls above Penken. Local guides can show you off-piste routes that stay untracked while the marked runs get skied out.

WeSki insider tip: Locals rate the steep mogul fields that form on Harakiri's neighbouring runs. These are less famous, but equally demanding.

Snowboarding in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen has serious freestyle credentials for boarders to enjoy. The Vans Penken Park attracts riders from across Europe with its well-maintained kickers, rails, and boxes. The resort's wide, groomed runs also make for excellent carving, and the lift system has plenty of gondolas and chairs to keep things boarder-friendly with minimal flat sections to navigate.

Off-piste skiing in Mayrhofen

When conditions align, Mayrhofen's off-piste options open up. The areas above the Penken ridge and the powder stashes accessed from the Rastkogel lift are worth the hike. For serious backcountry, the connection to Hintertux opens up glacier terrain and more consistent snow conditions at altitude.

Mayrhofen snow school and lessons

Mayrhofen hosts several well-established ski schools where English-speaking instructors are readily available. Group and private lessons cater to all levels, from complete beginners to those advanced skiers and boarders looking to tackle the Harakiri.

Through WeSki, you can add ski or snowboard lessons to your package and have everything arranged before you arrive. Check out Mayrhofen ski deals to get started.

Mayrhofen snow parks

The Vans Penken Park is one of Europe's top freestyle destinations, featuring multiple lines for different ability levels. From beginner features near the park entrance to pro-level kickers and a superpipe (when conditions allow), it's maintained to a high standard throughout the season.

Mayrhofen piste map

1. Mayrhofen family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Mayrhofen
3. Planning your trip in Mayrhofen
4. How to get to Mayrhofen
5. Mayrhofen FAQs

Mayrhofen family ski holiday

Mayrhofen is a brilliant choice for families who want a ski holiday that keeps everyone happy. The Ahorn mountain works as a natural family zone, with wide, gentle slopes and a dedicated beginner area where young skiers can progress without faster traffic whizzing past. The resort mascot AlbertAdler meets kids on the mountain, FunRides add playful obstacles to easy runs, and childcare facilities operate throughout the season for the littlest ones.

Off the slopes, there's plenty to keep families busy beyond skiing. The natural toboggan run from Ahorn back to the valley is a highlight for all ages, while the Erlebnisbad pool complex gives everyone a break from boots and bindings. Kids will love the ice skating rink, and Friday nights bring an ice disco that's surprisingly fun for the whole family. Teenagers can test themselves in the Vans Penken Park or try the Arena Coaster - plus, they'll appreciate that Mayrhofen's après scene gives them a taste of independence without parents worrying.

The village has plenty of family-friendly dining options. You'll find pizzerias serving reliable favourites, restaurants with generous portions that satisfy tired skiers, and mountain huts with sunny terraces where kids can play while parents take in the views. Several family-focused hotels also offer kids' clubs and flexible dining, making mealtimes one less thing to plan.

WeSki insider tip: Book accommodation in the Ahorn area if you're skiing with young children. You'll avoid the busier central village and have direct access to the family-friendly terrain.

Things to do in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen combines big-mountain adventure with traditional Tyrolean charm, making it easy to balance adrenaline-filled days with relaxed alpine experiences. Whether you're looking to stay active, slow the pace, or try something completely different, there's plenty to enjoy beyond the pistes.

Snow activities

Beyond the groomed runs, Mayrhofen's dramatic mountain scenery opens up a wide range of snow-based activities to explore its winter landscape.

• Natural toboggan runs: Long, thrilling descents from Ahorn and Penken - some of the longest toboggan runs in Austria.
• Snowshoeing: Marked trails and guided routes through quiet Tyrolean forests and alpine terrain.
• Cross-country skiing: Around 30km of prepared valley trails, ideal for scenic Nordic skiing.
• Ice climbing: Guided ice climbing on frozen waterfalls, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights soaring above the Zillertal Valley with spectacular mountain views.
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides: Traditional sleigh journeys through snowy landscapes for a slower-paced alpine experience.
• Night skiing: Evening skiing sessions on an illuminated cross-country trail near Mayrhofen for a unique after-dark adventure.
• Ski touring: Guided ski touring routes for exploring untouched terrain beyond the lifts.
• Ice skating: Outdoor and indoor rinks in the valley for classic winter fun.
• Winter hiking: Cleared mountain paths offering peaceful walks and panoramic views.

Non-snow activities

When you need a break from the slopes or fancy a slower-paced day, Mayrhofen offers plenty of ways to relax, explore, and experience local Tyrolean culture. It's easy to fill rest days without straying far from the village.

• Erlebnis Sennerei Zillertal: Working alpine cheese dairy offering guided tours, tastings, and insight into traditional production.
• Wellness spas: Local wellness centres and hotel spas providing saunas, massages, and post-ski relaxation.
• Village architecture walks: Self-guided or guided walks exploring traditional Tyrolean buildings and alpine heritage.
• Indoor pools & sports centres: Heated swimming pools and sports facilities ideal for active recovery days.
• Ice skating: Village ice rink offering classic winter skating for all ages.
• Innsbruck day trips: Easy trips to Innsbruck for museums, historic sights, cafés, and shopping.
• Village shopping: Pedestrianised centre with local boutiques selling Austrian crafts, fashion, and souvenirs.
• Zillertalbahn railway: Scenic train journeys on the historic Zillertalbahn, including steam-hauled routes through the valley.

Mayrhofen restaurants

Mayrhofen's dining scene ranges from traditional mountain huts to refined Austrian cooking and well-loved international favourites. Whether you're refuelling on the slopes or settling in for a relaxed evening in the village, the resort offers plenty of quality options with a strong focus on local flavours. Here's where to eat:

• Wirtshaus zum Griena: Traditional Tyrolean cooking served in a cosy, centuries-old historic building.
• Mamma Mia: Reliable Italian restaurant offering handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
• Mo's Restaurant: Contemporary Alpine cuisine with valley views and a relaxed, modern atmosphere.
• Gasthof Brücke: Classic Austrian dishes - don't miss the Wiener Schnitzel or seasonal local game.
• Gasthof Perauer: Traditional Austrian restaurant with a warm, local atmosphere and regional specialities.
• Scotland Yard: Steaks and international favourites in a British-themed pub setting.
• Kostner's Einkehr: Popular slope-side lunch spot known for quick service and hearty mountain fare.
• Schneekar Hütte: On-mountain hut serving generous portions with a spacious sun terrace.
• Grillhofalm: Slope-side BBQ specialities with live music during sunny afternoon sessions.
• Ahornhütte: Family-friendly mountain restaurant offering Austrian comfort food at altitude.

WeSki insider tip: Austrian cuisine shines with classics like Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancake), and Tiroler Gröstl (potato and meat hash) - try the local specialities for a true taste of the region.

Mayrhofen après-ski

Mayrhofen's après-ski scene is legendary, firmly placing the resort among the Austrian Alps' top party destinations. The fun starts early on the mountain, where umbrella bars at the base stations blast music from mid-afternoon, drawing skiers straight off the slopes. As evening falls, the party shifts into the village, where bars and clubs stay lively well into the night.

The atmosphere is friendly, international, and high-energy, with a mix of British visitors, Europeans, locals, and more. Expect singalongs, dancing, and plenty of laughter. It's energetic without tipping into aggression, and all fuelled by great music and an easygoing alpine party spirit.

• Ice Bar: The legendary umbrella bar at Penken where après kicks off with DJs, dancing, and packed terraces.
• Brück'n Stadl: Classic Austrian après with live bands, table-dancing, and infectious party energy.
• Scotland Yard: British pub vibes with live music, singalongs, and a familiar, lively atmosphere.
• Mo's: Stylish cocktail bar by day, late-night club by night, keeping the party going into the early hours.
• Speak Easy: Late-night venue for those wanting to continue dancing after most bars wind down.
• Harakiri Bar: Popular slope-side spot at the base of the famous run, buzzing from mid-afternoon onwards.
• Pilzbar: Long-standing Mayrhofen institution known for its cosy interior and lively après atmosphere.
• Bruck'n Stadl Alm: Slightly calmer earlier in the evening, building into a full après party later on.
• Arena Mayrhofen: The resort's main nightclub hosting DJs, themed nights, and big party events.

Planning your trip to Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen accommodation

Mayrhofen offers everything from budget-friendly pensions to four-star hotels and self-catered apartments with traditional Austrian character. Quality is generally high - Austrian hospitality standards apply - and most hotels include half-board, with many offering spa facilities.

Location matters here. The village stretches along the valley floor, so properties near the Penkenbahn gondola put you closest to the main skiing, while those towards Ahorn suit families heading to gentler terrain. The central village offers the liveliest atmosphere but can be noisier at night. For a quieter base, look towards the Ahorn end of town or the neighbouring hamlets of Finkenberg and Hippach, both connected by the ski area and local bus.

WeSki insider tips:

• For ski-in ski-out convenience, book near the Penken or Ahorn base stations.
• The best après access is in the central village within walking distance of the main bars.
• Families should consider Ahorn-side properties or quieter neighbouring villages.
• Ski bus stops are well-distributed, so most properties have good transport links.

Mayrhofen ski pass

Mayrhofen sits within the Zillertal ski region, giving you access to several pass options. The Mayrhofen-Hippach pass covers the immediate area of Penken, Ahorn, and Rastkogel, with 142 km of pistes and 61 lifts. For more variety, the Zillertal Superskipass unlocks 546 km across all Zillertal resorts, and includes free bus travel between resorts.

You can add your ski pass to your booking when you book a Mayrhofen ski holiday through WeSki.

Equipment hire

Mayrhofen has plenty of well-stocked rental shops in the village centre and near the lift stations. You'll find everything from beginner packages to high-performance demos for experienced skiers. Most shops offer multi-day discounts and can swap equipment if conditions change or you want to try something different.

WeSki insider tip: Shops near the Penkenbahn tend to be the busiest first thing. If you're collecting gear, consider going late afternoon the day before or use a shop slightly further from the main lifts.

Getting around Mayrhofen

The village is compact enough to walk around, though some accommodation sits a 10-15 minute walk from the lifts. Free ski buses run regular routes connecting the village, lift stations, and neighbouring areas like Finkenberg and Hippach throughout the day. The Zillertalbahn train connects Mayrhofen to the rest of the valley if you want to explore other villages.

Evening buses also operate, making it easy to reach restaurants and bars without worrying about taxis. Taxis are available but can be busy at peak times, so book ahead for late nights.

How to get to Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is well-connected to several airports. Innsbruck is closest at around 70 km, offering the shortest transfer. Munich (155 km) and Salzburg (175 km) are larger airports with more flight options from the UK. The scenic drive along the Zillertal road takes you through traditional Tyrolean villages before reaching the resort.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private and shared transfers to Mayrhofen. Add them to your Mayrhofen ski package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Mayrhofen FAQs

Is Mayrhofen good for beginners?

Yes, particularly on the Ahorn side of the resort. The dedicated beginner area at the top of the Ahorn gondola offers wide, gentle slopes separated from faster traffic. The ski schools are well-regarded with English-speaking instructors. That said, intermediates and above will get more from the terrain overall - if you're travelling as a mixed-ability group, Mayrhofen works well because there's genuinely something for everyone.

How does Mayrhofen compare to other Austrian resorts for après-ski?

Mayrhofen is one of Austria's top après-ski destinations, up there with St Anton and Ischgl for atmosphere and energy. The scene starts on the mountain at bars like Ice Bar and continues into the village well past midnight. It's lively without being too rowdy - expect a good time rather than anything excessive. If you're after a quieter resort, look elsewhere; if you enjoy a social atmosphere after skiing, you'll be in your element.

Is Mayrhofen snow-reliable?

Generally yes, thanks to the altitude range (630m to 1,790m) and extensive snowmaking. The upper slopes hold snow well throughout the December to mid-April season. Early and late season, stick to the higher terrain.

What is the Harakiri piste really like?

The Harakiri is Austria's steepest groomed piste with a 78% gradient at its steepest point. It's demanding but not impossible for confident advanced skiers - the grooming makes it more manageable than the statistics suggest. That said, it requires good technique and confidence on steep terrain. You can always watch from the chairlift first to gauge the conditions and your readiness.

Is Mayrhofen good value for money?

Mayrhofen offers good value compared to major French resorts, particularly for accommodation and eating out. Austrian resorts generally provide solid quality at fair prices, and Mayrhofen is no exception. Ski passes are competitively priced, especially the Zillertal Superskipass given the terrain it accesses. Après-ski can add up if you're out every night, but that's true anywhere.

How long should I stay in Mayrhofen?

A week gives you time to explore the local Penken and Ahorn areas properly, plus venture out to other Zillertal resorts if you have the Superskipass. A long weekend works if you're focused on the immediate terrain and want to sample the après-ski. The resort has enough variety for a full week without feeling repetitive, and the connection to Hintertux adds another dimension if you want a day exploring the glacier.

When is the best time to visit Mayrhofen?

The season runs from early December through mid-April. Snow conditions are typically most reliable from January onwards, though the higher slopes and snowmaking mean Christmas skiing is usually fine. The resort stays lively throughout the season thanks to its après-ski reputation. School holiday periods bring more families and can feel busier on the slopes.

How does Mayrhofen compare to St. Anton?

Both have legendary après-ski and Austrian character. Mayrhofen is more accessible for mixed abilities (the Ahorn suits beginners), while St. Anton's terrain is more consistently challenging. Mayrhofen has the terrain park advantage. Both deliver excellent Austrian ski holidays.

What's the après-ski like in Mayrhofen?

Lively, loud, and legendary. The Ice Bar and Brück'n Stadl are famous across Austria. Live music, dancing on tables, and a party atmosphere that continues until late. It's not a quiet resort - if you want peaceful evenings, choose elsewhere.

Is Mayrhofen good for snowboarding?

Excellent - the Vans Penken Park is one of Austria's best terrain parks, regularly hosting competitions. Multiple lines suit all abilities, and the natural terrain rewards freeriding. The resort's youthful energy embraces snowboard culture.

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