Resort Guide to Ishgl & Galtür, Austria

The traditional farming towns of Ischgl, Galtür and the rather abandoned Samnaun form the extensive Austrian/Swiss ski area known as Silvretta.

 

Skiing & Boarding

The Silvretta area is most suited to intermediate and advances skiers and boarders and all riders who love to freestyle. The terrain park here is said to be the best and biggest in the world and is the sole attraction for any visitors to the area. The area has a very good snow record and excellent snow canon coverage, just in case.

 

Beginners

There are a number of nursery slopes that can be accessed by taking the Gondola from Ischgl or if you are staying in Galtür, head to Wirl.

 

Intermediates

With the majority of pistes in the area being good, wide red runs, there is plenty to keep all intermediate skiers and boarders happy. Try a day out with your rucksack down the Alp Trida run and into Samnaun for some duty free supplies.

 

Advanced

For lovers of nippy black runs, there are a good selection around the Palinkopf peak area to try. If freestyling is more to your taste the terrain park is awesome and can occupy a whole week on it's own.

 

Snowboarders

In resent years Ischgl has become a mecca for snowboarders. With what is said to be the best and biggest terrain park in the world, freestylers will be in heaven! The majority of pistes follow the fall line so taking your board off and walking is thankfully a rarity here.

 

Off Piste

There is a reasonable number of off piste options that can be accessed from the main lifts and as the resort is not used that much by off piste skiers and boarders you can nearly always find some fresh lines for yourself.

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Ischgl

Sitting in the beautiful Silvretta mountains, Ischgl is a fashionable and active town with what is said to be the best nightlife in the Alps! Traditionally a farming village, the town has developed into a cosmopolitan centre with a real charm and "buzz" to it.

 

Galtür

The village of Galtür is quiet and relaxed. It has a small centre and is equipped with it's own sports centre. There are a few runs that are separated from the main Silvretta ski area but access to Ischgl is provided by a regular and free shuttle bus.

 

Samnaun

The village of Samnaun feels like it has been left behind by the developments of the other two towns in the resort area, and if it wasn't for it's duty free status it might have almost disappeared completely. However, as it is it has become a main attraction for skiers and boarders who traverse over to the Swiss side of the resort picking up "supplies" and heading back into Ischgl with them.

 

High Altitude Skiing

Lively Nightlife

Great Snowboard Park

Good Snow Record

 

Après Ski   Ischgl is said to have the best nightlife in the Alps!!   There are numerous bars and clubs in Ischgl and throughout the town there is always a good atmosphere.   Recommended are Pacha Nightclub, Wunderbar and and the American-themed Allegra Bar. Local haunts for British visitors include Down Under and the Eisbar.   Galtür has a quiet night life compared to Ischgl. There are a few local bars and relaxed atmosphere.	Activities   Ischgl has a number of activities going on, these include: Floodlit tobogganing, curling, ice skating, swimming, bowling, indoor tennis, and sleigh rides.   The resort also has 50km of cleared winter walks for those wishing to stretch their legs.	Eating Out   Ischgl has a good selection of places to eat, catering for all tastes and budgets.   There are an almost endless number of hotel restaurants available offering traditional Austrian cuisine.   Recommended are Hotel Post and Hotel Solaria. Alternatively try Salz & Pfeffer or the Buffalo Western for something a bit more laid back.
Ski/Board Tuition   The Ischgl-Silvretta Ski and Snowboard School have 10 instructors in the resort, most of whom speak fluent English.   Approx prices: Adult 5 days x 4 hrs: €200 Child 6 days x 4 hrs: €170	Ski/Board Hire   There are a number of shops offering ski and board hire in Ischgl.   We recommend asking your holiday rep/host for any recommendations and special offers and just have a browse when you get there to find the best deals.	Childcare   Day Kindergarten Ischgl Ski School offer childcare facilities for children aged 3-5 years at a cost of €300 for 6 days from 10:30am - 3:30pm. This price includes lunch and a drink.