St. Anton am Arlberg

St. Anton am Arlberg, nestled in the Austrian Alps, is a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Known for its extensive ski terrain, vibrant après-ski scene, and stunning alpine scenery, this charming village offers a multitude of activities and attractions year-round. This expert guide will delve into what travelers should do, the best attractions, weather conditions, the best time to visit, recommended hotels, and tips for getting around. Additionally, a detailed 5-day itinerary will help you make the most of your visit.

What to Do in St. Anton am Arlberg

Skiing and Snowboarding

St. Anton is synonymous with skiing and snowboarding. The Arlberg region boasts over 300 kilometers of marked ski runs and 200 kilometers of off-piste options. Key runs include:

• Galzig and Gampen Areas: Suitable for all levels, offering stunning views and diverse terrain.
• Kapall: Features blue, red, and black runs, including the challenging ski route 40 into the Mattun bowl.

Off-Piste Adventures

For experienced skiers, the off-piste opportunities are exceptional. Routes such as the ones off piste 100 to Zurs and the Run of Fame, which spans the entire Arlberg region, are not to be missed.

Après-Ski and Nightlife

St. Anton is famous for its lively après-ski scene. Iconic spots like Krazy Kanguruh, Taps, and Moosewirt offer a boisterous atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, consider:

• Fanghouse: A cozy bar with live music next to the Nassereinbahn lifts.
• Keller Bar: A rustic cellar bar with darts, table football, and live music.
• Alibi: An English-style pub with a great selection of beers.

Unique Experiences

• The Snow Must Go On: A weekly ski show every Wednesday night that showcases the history of skiing.
• Tobogganing: Enjoy a 4km toboggan run from Gampen to Nasserein.
• Arl.Park: A sports complex with trampolines, a climbing wall, and a bowling alley.
• Arlberg WellCom: Spa facilities with an outdoor pool and ice rink.

Best Attractions

Valluga Peak: Take the Valluga I cable car to reach the highest peak in the area at 2,811 meters. The panoramic views are breathtaking and a must-see for all visitors.

Zurs: A quieter alternative to St. Anton, Zurs offers wide pistes and heated chairlift seats. It’s perfect for exploring different ski areas and enjoying less crowded slopes.

Kapall: Apart from skiing, the top of Kapall provides stunning views, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

The Museum: Located above town, this museum offers insights into the local history and culture, and it was a filming location for the movie “Chalet Girl.”

Weather and Best Time to Visit

St. Anton experiences a typical alpine climate with cold winters and mild summers.

• Winter (December to March): Ideal for skiing and snowboarding, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 2°C.
• Spring (April to June): Warmer temperatures and melting snow make it great for hiking and exploring the mountains.
• Summer (July to September): Pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities such as mountain biking and hiking.
• Autumn (October to November): Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, offering a peaceful retreat.

The best time to visit for winter sports is from December to March, while summer activities are best enjoyed from June to September.

Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels

Luxury

• Arlberg Boutique Hotel: Offers creative, cosmopolitan cuisine and luxurious accommodations.
• M3 Hazienda: Known for its excellence in food, wine, and hospitality since 1985.

Mid-Range

• Schneider: A cozy restaurant with quality comfort food and a chic atmosphere.
• Maximillian: Combines traditional Austrian cuisine with modern international dishes.

Budget

• Fanghouse: Affordable and charming, located near the Nassereinbahn lifts.
• Alibi: An English-style pub with comfortable lodging options.

How to Get Around

St. Anton has an efficient bus system that makes getting around easy:

• Local Buses: Connect different parts of the village and nearby areas such as St Christoph, St Jacob, and Pettneu.
• Ski Buses: Provide access to the main ski areas.
• Night Buses: Operate after hours, ensuring safe transport after a night out.
• Paid Buses: Available for longer trips to places like Landeck.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

• Morning: Arrive in St. Anton and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the village and familiarize yourself with the layout.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Schneider and a relaxed evening at Fanghouse.

Day 2: Skiing and Après-Ski

• Morning: Hit the slopes in the Galzig and Gampen areas.
• Afternoon: Continue skiing or explore off-piste options.
• Evening: Experience the famous après-ski at Krazy Kanguruh.

Day 3: Kapall and Tobogganing

• Morning: Ski the Kapall runs and take in the views.
• Afternoon: Try the 4km toboggan run from Gampen to Nasserein.
• Evening: Dinner at Al Fuego Food On Fire and drinks at Keller Bar.

Day 4: Valluga Peak and Zurs

• Morning: Take the Valluga I cable car to the highest peak.
• Afternoon: Ski down to Zurs and explore the quieter slopes.
• Evening: Enjoy a meal at Arlberg Boutique Hotel and a night out at Murmell.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

• Morning: Relax at the Arlberg WellCom spa.
• Afternoon: Visit The Museum and take a leisurely stroll around the village.
• Evening: Farewell dinner at M3 Hazienda before departing.

Tips for Tourists

1. Check Weather and Avalanche Ratings: Always check the weather forecast and avalanche ratings before heading out.
2. Safety Gear: Carry appropriate safety gear, especially when skiing off-piste.
3. Respect Nature: Avoid skiing in prohibited tree areas to protect the environment and wildlife.
4. Stay Hydrated: Altitude can lead to dehydration, so drink plenty of water.
5. Use Public Transport: Utilize the efficient bus system to get around easily.
6. Book in Advance: Popular restaurants and hotels can fill up quickly, so book early.
7. Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel and strudel.

St. Anton am Arlberg offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a summer visitor, this alpine paradise has something for everyone. Plan your trip carefully, embrace the local culture, and enjoy all that St. Anton has to offer.