Skiing in Flachau is open, relaxed, and uncomplicated. The mountain spreads across sunny, south-facing slopes with a good mix of tree-lined runs lower down and wider pistes above. You'll find yourself cruising between alpine huts, dropping into quiet valleys, and enjoying views across to the Dachstein glacier on clear days. Its lift network connects smoothly to neighbouring Wagrain and Alpendorf, creating a satisfying circuit without ever feeling overwhelming.

Flachau's terrain rewards exploration. Each sector has its own character, from the gentler nursery slopes near the village to the more challenging runs dropping from Grießenkareck. Snow conditions tend to hold well on the higher north-facing runs, while the lower slopes benefit from excellent grooming and snowmaking coverage. It's a mountain that invites you to find your own rhythm rather than race from lift to lift.

Skiing for beginners in Flachau

Flachau has built its reputation on welcoming new skiers. Dedicated nursery areas sit right in the village, served by easy-access gondolas that take the stress out of those first days on snow. Gentle slopes provide a protected learning environment away from faster traffic, with wide pistes and patient gradients that build confidence quickly.

Once you've found your feet, progression routes lead naturally onto longer blue runs through the forest. For example, Star Jet and Gipfel Jet sectors offer plenty of cruising terrain where beginners can stretch their legs without suddenly finding themselves out of their depth. Many of the blue runs have consistent pitch throughout, avoiding surprises that might be too challenging.

WeSki insider tip: Start your mornings on the sunny slopes above Space Jet 1. The snow here softens nicely by mid-morning, making turns easier and falls softer.

Intermediate skiing in Flachau

Intermediates will find themselves right at home here. The resort's blue and red runs create a natural playground for those who've moved past the beginner stage and want to cover ground. Long, sweeping descents connect the lift stations, rewarding confident parallel turns with runs that let you take your time. A connection over to Wagrain opens up even more variety without requiring bus rides.

The runs from Grießenkareck down towards Flachau village are particular highlights for intermediates, where you'll find sustained red pistes and enough variety to keep things interesting. On powder days, intermediates comfortable with varied snow can find gentle off-piste glades between the marked runs. For a change of scenery, the link to Alpendorf via Wagrain creates a satisfying day-long circuit.

WeSki insider tip: Take the Flying Mozart gondola early and ski the runs back towards Wagrain before the crowds arrive. You'll often have the pistes nearly to yourself until mid-morning.

Advanced and expert skiing in Flachau

Flachau won't top a hardcore skier's bucket list, but it offers more than first appearances suggest. The black runs, particularly those dropping from Grießenkareck, provide genuine challenge with sustained steep pitches. The Hermann Maier World Cup downhill course, named after the local legend, delivers proper race-style terrain for those who want to test their technique.

Off-piste opportunities exist for those who know where to look. Terrain found between Flachau and Wagrain holds pockets of untracked snow after storms, and local guides can access steeper lines away from the marked runs. Within the wider Ski Amadé area, strong skiers can day-trip to more challenging terrain at resorts like Zauchensee or Obertauern.

WeSki insider tip: For the steepest in-bounds skiing, head to the Starjet 3 sector. The black runs here see less traffic and hold their condition better than the more accessible terrain.

Snowboarding in Flachau

Snowboarders are well catered for in Flachau. The wide, open pistes suit carving, while the terrain parks offer progression from beginner features through to more advanced kickers and rails. Three terrain parks across the Snow Space Salzburg area mean riders of different abilities can find appropriate challenges. Its lift system relies heavily on gondolas and chairlifts, so access is straightforward for boarders, without flat sections to navigate.

Off-piste skiing

Flachau's off-piste is modest but accessible. Tree skiing through the forests below Grießenkareck offers gentle powder runs after snowfall, suitable for those making their first forays away from groomed terrain. Serious off-piste enthusiasts will find the area limited, though guided tours can unlock more adventurous lines. The wider Ski Amadé area provides access to more serious freeride terrain for day trips.

Flachau ski school and lessons

Several well-established ski schools operate in Flachau, including the Ski School Flachau and Snow Academy Hermann Maier (the latter founded by the legendary local racer). English-speaking instructors are readily available, and group lessons cater to all levels, from complete beginners to who want to refine their technique. Private lessons can also be arranged for more focused coaching.

Flachau terrain parks

The Snow Space Salzburg area maintains three terrain parks at varying difficulty levels. Absolute Park Flachau serves as the main freestyle hub, featuring a well-maintained selection of jumps, rails, and boxes that are regularly reshaped throughout the season. A dedicated beginners' park is a great attraction for newcomers, allowing them to freestyle to progress safely before tackling larger features.

Flachau piste map

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

Flachau family ski holiday

Flachau is one of those resorts that really understands what families need from a ski holiday. Its organised village layout keeps everything walkable, with ski schools, rental shops, and restaurants clustered conveniently. Children's facilities include dedicated learning areas, with snow kindergartens for the youngest visitors and family-focused ski school programmes that keep kids engaged. The slopes' gentle nature also means parents can ski together while younger kids learn and teenagers explore independently.

Beyond lessons, families will find plenty to fill rest days and afternoons. The Fulseck toboggan run delivers proper sledging thrills, while ice skating, swimming at local hotels, and winter walking paths offer variety for different ages and energy levels. Many mountain restaurants welcome families with children's menus and relaxed atmospheres.

In the village centre, the dining scene suits families of all budgets and appetites. Traditional Gasthäuser serve generous portions of schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn that satisfy hungry skiers of all ages, while pizzerias and casual eateries provide familiar options for picky eaters. Flachau's après-ski atmosphere stays family-friendly, and you'll find more hot chocolates than tequila shots in most establishments.

Things to do in Flachau

Flachau is truly enjoyable during your time away from the slopes. The traditional village setting, dramatic mountain backdrop, and good local infrastructure make rest days feel like a genuine part of the holiday. Non-skiers and those nursing tired legs will find enough activities to fill their time, while the proximity to Salzburg opens up day-trip possibilities for culture and shopping.

Snow activities

The mountains around Flachau provide excellent opportunities for winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding. Many of these experiences offer different perspectives on the surrounding alpine scenery:

• Tobogganing: Floodlit evening toboggan runs provide thrilling descents through the forest for quintessential Austrian experience.
• Snowshoeing: Guided snowshoe hikes explore quiet valleys and forest trails away from the ski slopes.
• Cross-country skiing: Over 260km of groomed Nordic trails wind through the valley, suitable for all fitness levels.
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides: Evening sleigh rides through the snow-covered landscape with mountain views.
• Ice skating: Natural and artificial ice rinks in the village for relaxed skating sessions.
• Winter hiking: Cleared walking paths through forests and along valley floors with mountain panoramas.
• Ski touring: Guided touring routes for those wanting to explore the backcountry under their own power.

Non-snow activities

Rest days in Flachau don't just mean sitting around. The village and surrounding region offer activities that suit different interests and energy levels, from complete relaxation to cultural exploration:

• Spa and wellness: Several hotels offer spa facilities with pools, saunas, and treatment rooms open to non-guests.
• Salzburg day trip: Mozart's birthplace lies around 70km away, providing the perfect spot for a cultural break with historic architecture and cafés.
• Swimming pools: Indoor pools at local hotels and the nearby Therme Amadé provide warm-water relaxation.
• Village exploration: Wander Flachau's traditional centre with its church, local shops, and authentic Austrian atmosphere.
• Mountain restaurants: Non-skiers can ride gondolas to access panoramic mountain huts for lunch with views.
• Local shopping: Browse sports shops, Austrian souvenirs, and local food products in the village centre.
• Hermann Maier museum: Learn about the local skiing legend's remarkable career at displays in the resort.

Flachau restaurants

Flachau's dining scene reflects its authentic village character, where you can expect hearty Austrian cooking and welcoming service. Traditional Gasthäuser dominate, serving the kind of substantial alpine fare that fuels cold-weather appetites. From mountain huts to valley restaurants, you'll eat well without the pretension of flashier resorts.

• Hofstadl: Atmospheric converted farmhouse serving refined Salzburg cuisine with a modern touch.
• Flachauer Hof: Traditional hotel restaurant known for excellent Austrian classics and warm hospitality.
• Dampfkessel: Lively spot combining good food with après-ski atmosphere (trust us, arrive hungry and thirsty!)
• Brunnhofalm: Mountain restaurant serving traditional dishes on a sunny terrace with valley views.
• Schnapshäusl: Cosy hut atmosphere with fondue, raclette, and an impressive schnapps selection.
• Jagahäusl: Rustic mountain restaurant accessible on skis, perfect for a leisurely lunch stop.
• Pizzeria Roma: Reliable Italian option when you need a break from Austrian fare - good pizzas and pasta.
• Wastlwirt: Family-run Gasthaus serving generous portions of home-style Austrian cooking.

WeSki insider tip: Try Salzburger Nockerl for dessert - this pillowy sweet soufflé, shaped like mountain peaks, is a regional speciality best enjoyed warm with vanilla sauce.

Flachau après-ski

Flachau's après-ski keeps things sociable without descending into complete chaos. You'll find skiers gathering at slope-side bars as the lifts close, drinks in hand, comparing the day's adventures. The atmosphere trends towards friendly and sociable rather than wild, and families can feel comfortable alongside groups looking for a good time.

That said, Flachau knows how to have fun. Hermann Maier's celebrity status means the resort punches above its weight for entertainment, with regular events and a surprising energy for its size. The main bars fill up after skiing and stay lively into the evening, though you won't find clubs open until dawn.

Après-ski spots to know:

• Dampfkessel: The central après-ski hub. It's always busy, always loud, always fun after a day on the slopes.
• Alte Schmiede: Traditional bar with live music some evenings and a welcoming local atmosphere.
• Herrmann's Stadl: Lively après venue with connections to the local legend - good vibes and cold beer.
• Lucky Flitzer: Slope-side bar catching skiers as they finish, a convenient spot for that first drink of the evening.
• Hofstadl Bar: A well-known spot transitioning from social drinks to DJ sets as the lights go down, in a stylish and relaxed setting. Known as Flachau's "après ski temple."
• Tauernalm: Mountain restaurant that transitions into après mode with drinks, music, and mountain views.

Flachau map

Planning your trip in Flachau

Flachau accommodation

Accommodation in Flachau ranges from traditional family-run pensions to comfortable four-star hotels, with apartments and chalets also available. The village stretches along the valley floor, with most properties within walking distance of at least one lift station. The central area around Space Jet 1 offers the easiest slope access and proximity to restaurants and bars, while properties towards the edges tend to be quieter and often better value. Distances remain manageable here. Even the furthest accommodations sit within a 15-minute walk of a gondola, and ski buses run regular circuits connecting all areas.

Flachau ski pass

The Snow Space Salzburg ski pass covers Flachau, Wagrain, and Alpendorf, with 120km of interconnected pistes accessed by a single ticket.

Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Flachau ski holiday package through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.

Equipment hire

Several well-stocked equipment shops operate in Flachau, offering everything from beginner packages to high-performance equipment. Most shops cluster near the main lift stations, making morning collection convenient. Ski and boot fitting services ensure comfortable equipment matched to your ability level.

Booking equipment in advance typically secures better rates and guarantees availability during peak periods.

WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Flachau, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival. Browse Flachau ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around Flachau

Flachau's compact layout makes most journeys manageable on foot. The village stretches along the main valley road, with restaurants, shops, and lift stations all within reasonable walking distance. A ski bus service connects the accommodation areas to the main gondola stations throughout the day, running at regular intervals.

Evening transport options include taxis and shuttles to some accommodation, which is worth checking if you're staying further from the centre and planning late dinners. However, most visitors find they rarely need transport beyond their own two feet and the occasional ski bus.

How to get to Flachau

Flachau sits in the Salzburg region, making it accessible from several airports. Salzburg Airport lies around 70km away, while Munich Airport offers flight options at approximately 200km. Innsbruck provides another alternative at roughly 180km.

Train connections run to Eben im Pongau station, from where local buses cover the final 10km to Flachau. Driving from Salzburg takes around an hour via well-maintained motorways.

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

Flachau FAQs

Is Flachau good for beginners?

Flachau is excellent for beginners. The resort has invested heavily in learner-friendly infrastructure, with dedicated nursery areas, gentle progression runs, and well-organised ski schools with English-speaking instructors. The terrain naturally suits those building confidence, with wide pistes, consistent gradients, and minimal flat sections. Many families choose Flachau specifically because new skiers can progress from first turns to blue runs within a week.

How does Flachau compare to other Austrian resorts?

Flachau offers a more relaxed, family-oriented experience compared to Austria's party resorts like Ischgl or Sölden. The skiing suits intermediates and beginners better than expert-focused areas, while the village maintains authentic charm rather than purpose-built convenience. Prices tend to be more affordable than premium destinations, and the atmosphere feels welcoming rather than exclusive. It's a solid choice for families, couples, and mixed-ability groups.

Is Flachau snow-sure?

Flachau benefits from comprehensive snowmaking covering most main runs, ensuring reliable conditions throughout the season from late November to mid-April. The summit reaches 1,990m, which helps snow hold longer on higher slopes. Natural snowfall averages around 5 metres per season. The north-facing runs above the village retain snow best, while lower slopes rely more heavily on snowmaking and grooming during warmer spells.

What is there to do in Flachau besides skiing?

Flachau offers genuine variety for non-skiing days. Toboggan runs provide evening entertainment, while cross-country skiing spans over 260km of groomed trails. Ice skating, swimming at local spa facilities, and winter walking paths fill rest days nicely. Day trips to Salzburg open up culture, shopping, and café hopping. The village itself rewards gentle exploration, with traditional shops and cosy restaurants welcoming visitors throughout the day.

Is Flachau suitable for families with teenagers?

Flachau works well for families with older children and teenagers. The ski area provides enough variety to keep confident intermediates interested, while three terrain parks offer freestyle progression and the connection to Wagrain and Alpendorf creates space for teenagers to explore independently. Off the slopes, toboggan runs, ice skating, and a relaxed village atmosphere suit the teenage demographic better than either pure family resorts or adult-oriented party destinations.

How long do I need in Flachau?

A week provides comfortable time to explore Flachau's 120km within Snow Space Salzburg thoroughly, with opportunities for rest days and non-skiing activities. Confident intermediates might cover the connected terrain faster and could consider day trips to other Ski Amadé resorts for variety. Beginners and families typically find a week ideal, allowing time for progression without rushing. Long weekends suit return visitors or those combining Flachau with Salzburg city.

Who is Hermann Maier and why is he associated with Flachau?

Hermann Maier is one of the most successful alpine ski racers in history, nicknamed 'The Herminator' for his aggressive style. Born and raised in Flachau, he won two Olympic gold medals, three World Championship titles, and four overall World Cup titles. The resort proudly celebrates its local hero, with the Hermann Maier World Cup downhill course, his ski school Snow Academy Hermann Maier, and various displays around the village to honour his remarkable career.

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