Ski Resort Ellmau
On the northern edge of the SkiWelt, one of the biggest linked ski areas in the nation, is the well-liked ski resort of Ellmau in the Austrian Tyrol. It provides a range of runs for skiers of all abilities together with a little village with breathtaking views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains.
Families wishing to spend a winter vacation in the Austrian Alps should definitely choose Ski Resort Ellmau. Ellmau has enough of skiing options for all skills and tastes thanks to its convenient access to the SkiWelt, a huge network of 284 km of pistes and 90 lifts. Ellmau and its nearby resorts have everything from easy beginning slopes to difficult black runs to entertaining snow parks. Along with trying some of the other sports, such ice skating, sledding, or horse-drawn carriage rides, you may also explore the SkiWelt on cross-country skis, snowshoes, or winter hiking trails.
Apart from being a ski resort, Ellmau is a little hamlet steeped in culture and history. The community, which has remained in its original Tyrolean architecture and ambiance, was founded in the twelfth century. The oldest structure in Ellmau, the lovely parish church, is worth seeing, or you may meander down the main street, which is lined with quaint cafes, restaurants, stores and pubs. A magnificent mountain range that dominates the area and offers an amazing background for your holiday pictures is another something you may appreciate.
Ellmau is renowned as well for its services and amenities that are suitable for families. Children may pick up skiing, have fun, and meet new friends at the resort’s many ski schools, nurseries, and kids’ clubs. Nestled at the Hartkaiser gondola’s mountain station, the Hartkaiser Adventure Eldorado is a kid’s paradise complete with a children’s café, daycare center, and adventure ski school. For toddlers as young as two years old, the mountain station also houses the Ellmi’s Kids Club. Nestled next to the Kirchbichl lift, Ellmauer Kinderland provides year-round child care together with the Bobo Kinderland and Bobo Kinderclub, which are managed by the 1st Ellmau skiing and snowboarding school.
Ellmau is therefore a fantastic starting point for touring the surrounding region and taking in the diversity and beauty of the Tyrol. Ski or bus transportation is available to nearby SkiWelt ski destinations including Söll, Brixen, and Scheffau. In addition, you can explore neighboring towns and cities such St. Johann, Wörgl, Kitzbühel, Innsbruck, and Salzburg to take advantage of their nightlife and shopping opportunities in addition to their cultural and historical offerings. Through the winter, Ellmau and the surrounding area host a number of events and festivals, including the Alpine Ski World Cup, Ellmau Ski Night, Tyrolean Music Festival, and SkiWelt Winter Opening.
Ski Resort Ellmau is the best place for you if you want to combine great skiing with breathtaking landscape and a welcoming family environment. There are many of lodging possibilities to fit your tastes and budget, from opulent hotels to comfortable guesthouses. Feeling at home will also be achieved by the excellent food and the kind and kind service. An amazing winter paradise, Ski Resort Ellmau will make your vacation one to remember.
Ski Resort Ellmau - Info card
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Ellmau, Tyrol, Austria |
| Resort Altitude | 820 m |
| Highest Lift | 1957 m |
| Slopes | 284 km |
| Longest Run | 10 km |
| Easy Slopes | 122 km |
| Moderate Slopes | 129 km |
| Advanced Slopes | 33 km |
| Directions of Slopes | N, E, S, W |
| Night skiing | Yes |
| Snow Making | Yes |
| Ski pass prices | € 51.50 (adult), € 25.50 (child), € 41 (youth), € 46.50 (senior) |
| Opening times | 08:30 – 16:30 |
| Uphill Capacity | 145,000 persons/hour |
| Total Lifts | 90 |
| Gondolas/Cable cars | 15 |
| Chairlifts | 35 |
| Drag Lifts | 40 |
| Snow Parks | 4 |
Skiing In Ellmau
In Ellmau at the base of the Wilder Kaiser, a new era began with the introduction of the new 10-person gondola to the Hartkaiser peak. In lieu of a decades-old lift is this state-of-the-art cable car with wireless internet and an extra-long entry platform. Using the biggest wintersports network in Austria, SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, has become even easier. A sports shop, a ski storage facility, and underground parking are among features of the new cable car bottom station.
The size of this connected universe of pistes and lifts traversing the Wilder Kaiser Mountains may first cause skiers and snowbarders visiting the SkiWelt from Ellmau to have trouble orienting themselves. With 90 lifts, 70 chalets and countless all-level pistes, it is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream come true. Beginners will find the modest slopes at Ellmau and the nearby village of Going, which also offers a number of ski schools, perfect. Skiers with more experience can visit Hartkaiser mountain, which offers several sunny runs, many of which are red (intermediate) or blue (easy). On the eastern flanks of the mountain, the perilous Black East route should only be attempted by professionals. Perfect for freeriding is the “White Kög,” an unprepared slope close to the Köglbahn lift, south of the summit. Near the Tanzbodenbahn lift, in Kaiserpark, snowboarders can practice their craft. There are views of the craggy Wilder Kaiser Mountains from every north-facing slope.
The SkiWelt at Ellmau offers much to keep kids occupied. Highlights include the “Bobo Kinderland,” which has its own funpark run by the 1. Ellmauer Ski- und Snowboardschule, and the “Ellmauer Kinderland,” located near the Kirchbichllift and where kids may also be looked after by qualified childcare providers. An adventure ski school and a kids’ café are features of the recently opened “Erlebniseldorado Hartkaiser” at the resort’s base.
Ski Slopes and Trails
Beginners to pros can find a range of slopes at Ellmau. The Hartkaiser gondola, which took over for the old mountain railway and features a middle station for greater flexibility, is the primary entry point to the ski region. A kids adventure area with a café, daycare, and ski school is located at the mountain station. There are gentler options as well as some difficult parts in the valley down from the Hartkaiser, such the “Black East.” Popular for experienced skiers, the “Kaiser circuit” spans 20 km of slopes and 4000 m of elevation. Ellmau is also linked to Going, a smaller ski region with sunnier, more moderate slopes.
- Beginner Trails: Families will love the family-friendly blue valley descent on the Hartkaiser, as well as the numerous easy (blue) and medium-difficult (red) pistes, wide and roomy descents, practice lifts on the summits. Many ski trails (Skiwege) ease the challenging sections and facilitate less experienced skiers’ overall descents in the SkiWelt Ellmau. Beginners will find the great practice area in the valley (Ellmau nursery slope) to be perfect. For all lovers of winter sports, the ski school with locations in the valley and mountain station provides the best instruction.
- Intermediate Trails: Ellmau offers a wealth of opportunities for intermediate skiers to push themselves and advance their abilities. Ambitious skiers can enjoy various slopes, including the valley descent on the Hartkaiser with the fabled “Black East” and many amazing portions that offer an alternative to the traditional descent. Freeriders love the unprepared “White-Kögel,” which descends from the Köglbahn. Covering about 20 km of pistes and more than 4000 m of elevation, the “Kaiser circuit” is one of the most beautiful Köglbahn circuits. Though it may be reached from any point on the circuit, the tour should ideally begin and end in Ellmau or Going.
- Advanced Trails: Ellmau offers a variety and caliber of trails that will not disappoint advanced skiers. There are plenty of trails in the Hartkaiser area, including hidden gems to suit every ability. The variety of descents available impresses all winter sports enthusiasts, from novices to families and professionals alike, with steep slopes for experts (‘Black East’ on the valley descent) to wide, sunny pistes. Adventure skiers can also take use of the “White-Kögel” and “Kaiser circuit” off-piste options.
Ski Lifts
Many lifts and a new modern gondola (which took the place of the funicular) service the slopes south of Ellmau.Winter skiers advancing into the lower level of slopes have access to a number of drag lifts and smaller nursery slope lifts. Major lifts are in operation in both the summer and winter. The Astberg is located roughly 1.5 kilometers east of the hamlet and has a café at the top accessible by 4-person chair lift. About two kilometers west of the village lies the heated gondola Hartkaiser, which takes seven minutes to climb.In remembrance of the former lift, a funicular car is currently built at the top of the hills. The Hartkaiser summit features a park and café with wood sculptures and interactive displays. About 4 kilometers west in Scheffau are the cable-hung, 4-man Brandstadl Gondola Lifts. There is a gondola lift that can hold eight people as well. Nine kilometers distant lies the Hohe Salve gondola lift. The Hohe Salve will subsequently be crossed by the lift to Hopfgarten. Both weekly, fortnightly, and season passes—which cover most of the lifts in the Skiwelt region—may be bought at tourist information, as can individual lift tickets at the stations. The Wilder Kaiser side is not served by any lifts, save one at Kufstein. Taxis run up until Wochenbrunn, after which you have to walk to finish your trip.
| Name | Type | Capacity | Length | Vertical drop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartkaiserbahn | 10-person gondola | 3000 p/h | 3.8 km | 860 m |
| Hausberg | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 1.5 km | 400 m |
| Köglbahn | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 1.4 km | 400 m |
| Almbahn | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 1.1 km | 300 m |
| Tanzbodenbahn | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 1.1 km | 300 m |
| Astbergbahn | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 1.1 km | 300 m |
| Ellmis 6er | 6-person chairlift | 3000 p/h | 1.0 km | 300 m |
| Kaiserexpress | 4-person chairlift | 2400 p/h | 0.9 km | 300 m |
| Eibergbahn I | 6-person chairlift | 3000 p/h | 0.8 km | 200 m |
| Eibergbahn II | 6-person chairlift | 3000 p/h | 0.8 km | 200 m |
| Sonnenlift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.6 km | 100 m |
| Kirchbichllift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.5 km | 100 m |
| Kaiserlift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.4 km | 100 m |
| Hausberglift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.4 km | 100 m |
| Almrosenlift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.4 km | 100 m |
| Muldenlift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.3 km | 100 m |
| Kaiserwald | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.3 km | 100 m |
| Ellmau-Going Verbindungslift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.3 km | 100 m |
| Ellmau Ski School Lift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.2 km | 50 m |
| Ellmau Practice Lift | T-bar lift | 1200 p/h | 0.2 km | 50 m |
Types of Lifts
Gondolas
The new 10-seater Hartkaiserbahn gondola, which took the role of the old mountain railway, is the primary gondola in Ellmau. With its new middle station that allows passengers to get on and off halfway up and extra-long entry point, it is especially family-friendly. Skiers may reach the SkiWelt ski region and take in stunning views of the Wilder Kaiser and the Kitzbühel Alps from the mountain station on the Hartkaiser via gondola from the village.
Chairlifts
Ellmau offers rapid and comfortable transportation to various areas of the ski slope via a number of chairlifts. Chairlifts include, among others:
The six-seater Almbahn chairlift transports skiers from the Hartkaiser to the Almbahn mountain station, where they can take in a broad perspective of the Wilder Kaiser and the neighboring summits.
– The 4-seater Hausberg chairlift links the Hartkaiser with the Hausberg mountain station, from where skiers can reach the slopes of the nearby Brixen resort. Skiers can join the “Kaiser circuit” or the “White-Kögel” at the Köglbahn mountain station, which is reached by the 4-seat Köglbahn chairlift from the valley.
Surface Lifts
Easy to use and offering access to practice areas and mild slopes, surface lifts are perfect for novices and kids. Within Ellmau, some surface lifts include:
– The Kirchbichl lift, situated close to the Ellmauer Kinderland, a kid-friendly amusement park with a ski school and daycare centre. Nestled next to the Hartkaiser mountain station, the Tanzboden lift offers families and novices a broad, sunny slope.
– A short tow lift called the Kaiserexpress connects the Hartkaiser with the Hausberg and lets skiers avoid a level stretch of the trail.
Modern Lift Systems
Modern lift systems, including gondolas, chairlifts, and draglifts, that can take you swiftly and comfortably to various parts of the ski area are one of Ellmau’s benefits. The most striking lift is the new, ten-seat Hartkaiserbahn gondola, which took the place of the previous, decades-old lift. With its extra-long entry platform, wireless internet, and intermediate station where you can hop on and off halfway up, this cable car is cutting edge. Additionally providing underground parking, a sports shop, and a ski storage facility is the new cable car bottom station.
The Ellmis 6er chairlift is another amazing lift; it is the first chairlift with heated seats worldwide. In approximately six minutes, this lift transports you warmly and comfortably from the valley station to the mountain station. You are also shielded from the wind and snow by the weather protection hood on the elevator.
Easy Access to Different Areas
Easy access to other ski resorts in the vicinity and various sections of the SkiWelt is another advantage of Ellmau. Utilising the ski lifts to see more of the ski region and take in the range of slopes and scenery is possible with your ski pass. Ski lifts also make it simple to reach neighboring SkiWelt ski destinations including Söll, Scheffau, and Brixen im Thale. To travel even farther, you can take the train or the ski bus to additional ski areas such Zell am See, St. Johann, and Kitzbühel.
Family-Friendly Features
The ski lifts and other family-friendly amenities of Ellmau are just another reason to like the town. Families with kids are intended to use the ski lifts because of their ease and safety. For instance, kids have a dedicated entry on the new Hartkaiserbahn gondola where they can easily board the cable car. At the mountain station of the lift are a kids’ café, daycare services, and an adventure ski school. Nestled adjacent to the Kirchbichl lift, Ellmauer Kinderland offers kids a pleasant park and a club where they can pick up skiing or snowboarding from certified instructors and amiable mascots.
Skiers and snowboarders at Ski Resort Ellmau find delight and satisfaction from the ski lifts in addition to a method of mobility. They provide family-friendly characteristics together with comfort, convenience, and access to several parts of the ski area. Remember to value the ski lifts that enhance and personalize your winter vacation the next time you visit Ellmau.
Lift Passes and Ticket Information
| Category | Low Season | High Season |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | €62 – €69 | €69 |
| Youth | €46.50 – €52 | €52 |
| Child | €31 – €34.50 | €34.50 |
Prices are for one-day tickets; they could change according on the ticket type, day, and time. The months of August 12 to December 22 and of March 16 to January 4 are the low seasons. 23.12–15.03 is the peak season. Youngsters and children cards need a current photo ID, and children born after 2018 ride for free.
Snowboarding in Ellmau
All ability snowboarders can find a range of slopes at Ellmau, from easy beginner runs to difficult freeride terrain.
Finding the Best Slopes for Your Level
All ability snowboarders can find a variety of slopes at Ellmau, from easy beginner runs to difficult freeride terrain. These locations are some of the greatest for snowboarders of all skill levels:
- Beginners: Ellmau offers a plethora of easy (blue) slopes, particularly on the bottom portion of the Hartkaiser mountain. A T-bar lift and a magic carpet are features of the valley-side Ellmau nursery slope, where you can also practice. The Ellmau ski schools provide instruction for novices together with child care and equipment rentals. Among the top snowboarding ski schools are Skischule Aktiv, Skischule TOP, and Ellmauer Ski- und Snowboardschule. For kids four years old and up, there are other amusement parks and clubs called Bobo Kinderland and Bobo Kinderclub.
- Intermediates: If you’ve done some snowboarding before, Ellmau offers a lot of medium-difficult (red) runs, particularly on the top of Hartkaiser mountain. The Hartkaiser offers a valley descent with a fabled Black East black section as well. It takes nerves and strong competence to climb the steep and narrow Black East. Discover the other ski resorts in the SkiWelt region, such Söll, Scheffau, or Brixen im Thale, if you’re seeking for more diversity. For 109 kilometers of pistes and 45 lifts, head to the neighboring Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau by ski bus.
- Experts: Particularly on the south side of Hartkaiser mountain, Ellmau offers several difficult slopes and freeride terrain for experienced snowboarders. An unprepared drop close to the Köglbahn lift is called the White-Kögel. The White-Kögel is a deep snow and naturally occurring obstacle-filled powder nirvana for freeriders. Taking the Kaiser circuit, a 20 km ride with breathtaking views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains and 4,000 m of elevation, is an additional choice. Starting and ending the circuit at Ellmau or Going, or joining it from any point, is your choice. To get to the well-known Kitzbühel, which boasts 57 lifts and 234 km of pistes, including the fabled Hahnenkamm downhill race, take the ski bus.
Having Fun in the Snowpark and the Adventure Eldorado
For snowboarders that prefer to have fun and try out new techniques, Ellmau has a lot to offer. Nestled adjacent to the Tanzbodenbahn lift, the Kaiserpark is a snowpark with a range of elements suitable for all skill levels of snowboarders. Rails, boxes, kickers and a halfpipe are features of the Kaiserpark’s beginner, medium and pro lines. Over the season, the Kaiserpark also organizes competitions and events including the Kaiserpark Battle, the Kaiserpark Opening, and the Shred Poker.
One further draw for snowboarders is the recently opened Hartkaiser Adventure Eldorado, located at the gondola’s mountain station. Children’s adventure ski school, daycare center, and restaurant are all features of Hartkaiser Adventure Eldorado. The emphasis of the lessons at the kids’ adventure ski school is fun and safety for youngsters four years old and up. Together with playing games and exploring the snow, the children can pick up snowboarding abilities. Along with a carousel, a winter igloo, and a magic carpet, the Hartkaiser Adventure Eldorado offers tubing course.
Après-Ski and Nightlife in Ellmau
Skiers and snowboarders that like to party and take advantage of the après-ski and nightlife environment will love Ellmau. From cosy mountain cottages to vibrant bars and clubs, Ellmau has something to suit every mood and taste. One of Austria’s biggest wintersports networks, SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, includes Ellmau and provides connectivity to numerous other ski resorts in the area. Charming Ellmau offers a unique après-ski and nightlife experience by fusing innovation and history.
Starting Your Après-Ski on the Mountain
Stopping at one of the many mountain huts in the ski region to enjoy traditional cuisine, beverages, and music together with breathtaking views of the mountains is the ideal way to begin your après-ski. Among Ellmau’s most well-known mountain cabins are:
- Situated near the valley station of the Hartkaiserbahn gondola is the Ellmauer Alm. Large sun patio, comfortable interior space, and vibrant ambiance characterize this hut. Standard Tyrolean fare includes Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake with raisins and apple sauce), Tiroler Gröstl (fried potatoes with bacon and eggs), and Kaspressknödel (cheese dumplings in broth). A home-made booze prepared with fruits and herbs is called Ellmauer Alm Schnaps. The Ellmauer Alm also presents live music and DJ events and the well-known Tuesday night ski show, where you can see the ski instructors do amazing stunts and let off pyrotechnics.
- Situated close to the Eibergbahn lift on the south slope of the Hartkaiser mountain lies the Rübezahl Alm. With a fireplace, a winter garden and a commanding view of the Wilder Kaiser, this hut is a rustic and romantic retreat. Gourmet fare including deer ragout, truffle spaghetti, and beef tartare is served together with excellent wines and beverages. In the spa section of the Rübezahl Alm, you can unwind in the hot tub, steam bath or sauna. If you would prefer to stay overnight on the mountain, you can also get a room or a suite at the Rübezahl Alm.
- Situated close to the Tanzbodenbahn lift on the north slope of the Hartkaiser mountain lies the Blattlalm. Modern and chic, this hut has a bar, a living space, and a large sun terrace. Along with regional favorites like cheese fondue, roast pork or apple strudel, you may savour worldwide fare like burgers, pizzas and salads. Additionally available is Blattlalm Beer, a handmade beer made just for the hut. A snowpark at Blattlalm allows you to witness or participate in the stunts and jumps performed by snowboarders and freeskiers.
Continuing Your Après-Ski in the Village
There are several of bars, taverns, and clubs in the village where you can carry on your après-ski after a day on the slopes. Being a small village, you can walk or cycle to some of the locations or use the free ski bus service to move about. Among the most well-liked clubs, taverns, and bars in Ellmau are:
- Situated close to the church in the village center is the Memory. Both residents and tourists can be met in this welcoming and comfortable bar. Along with a large variety of beverages like beers, wines, spirits, or cocktails, you can savour appetisers like nachos, sandwiches, or cakes. Sports can be watched on the large screen or you can play games like table football, billiards, or darts.In addition, The Memory offers live music, bingo, and karaoke.
- The fabric is housed in the Hotel Alte Post, close to the gondola of the Hartkaiserbahn. Enjoying a sophisticated environment, this bar is a modern and attractive establishment. Along with coffee, tea or hot chocolate, you can sip on fine beverages like whiskey, gin, or champagne. Specialties like chocolate fondue, smoked salmon, and cheese platters are also available. The cozy couches are another place to unwind, or take in the wall-mounted artworks. The Fabels also holds events including cocktail classes, wine tastings, and art shows.
- The Whisky-Mühle is next to the Ellmau nursery slope and housed in the Hotel Hochfilzer. You may dance all night long in this lively and exuberant club. Rock and pop to disco and techno are among the genres of music you might hear performed by DJs or live bands. In addition, you may take advantage of a wide range of beverages including beers, wines, cocktails, or shots and special promotions such ladies evenings, happy hours, and theme parties. A bottle service and table reservations are available in the Whisky-Mühle’s VIP section.
