Obertauern
Overall rating
High-altitude Austrian resort with reliable snow, a compact ski-in ski-out layout and a piste mix that works well for beginners and intermediates, backed by a strong traditional après scene.
Quick Resort Stats
Overview
Obertauern is a high-altitude ski resort in Salzburg, Austria, set on a pass road above the tree line. The ski area offers around 100km of pistes arranged in a compact circuit that makes it easy to cover the mountain without long transfers. Terrain is particularly friendly for beginners and intermediates, though there are steeper sections and the famous Gamsleiten 2 for stronger skiers.
With the village at roughly 1,752m and slopes reaching above 2,300m, it is one of Austria’s most snow-sure non-glacier resorts. The layout is practical and ski-focused, with hotels, lifts and bars closely packed around the road-linked resort centre. It stands out for dependable early and late season conditions, easy access to the slopes and a very classic Austrian après atmosphere.
Key Information
Obertauern is one of Austria’s most snow-reliable major resorts thanks to its high base altitude, open terrain above the tree line and season that often runs from late November into spring.
Affordability Rating — 5/10
Prices are mid-range by Austrian standards, with convenient ski-in ski-out hotels and mountain restaurants, but less budget depth than lower-profile Salzburg resorts.
Après Ski Rating — 8/10
Lürzer Alm is the best-known après venue, while Latschn Alm and Gruberstadl help keep the resort lively after the lifts close.
Other Activities Rating — 6/10
Obertauern focuses heavily on skiing, though winter walking, tobogganing, wellness facilities and snow-based family activities add some extra variety.
Resort Amenities Rating — 7/10
The resort is compact and efficient, with strong ski-in ski-out convenience, plenty of hotels and bars, and easy access to lifts from most parts of the village.
Average Age Rating — 31
Obertauern attracts a balanced mix of families, adult ski groups and repeat visitors, with a slightly older average than full-scale party resorts despite its strong après culture.
Off-Piste Rating — 5/10
Obertauern has some powder options and ungroomed terrain, but it is more of a piste-focused resort than a major freeride destination.
Ski Pass Pricing
- 6-day adult ski pass: €357
- 1-day adult ski pass: €69.50
- Child, youth and reduced senior rates available
- Children up to age 5 ski free with parents in the resort offer structure
- Covers 100km of pistes.
Prices are indicative and based on the latest available data at the time of review. Please check the official resort website for current pricing.
Peak Periods & Best Time to Visit
Obertauern is busiest in February when school holiday demand is strongest and its snow-sure reputation makes it a dependable choice. The resort’s compact layout means central lifts and nursery areas can back up in peak weeks, although the overall area is easy to navigate. January and mid-March usually offer the best balance of snow cover, lower queues and full mountain access.
Busiest period: February
Best time to go: January to mid-March.
Slopes
Slope Breakdown:
Blue 61km
Red 35km
Black 4km
The piste map is strongly beginner and intermediate focused, with just a small amount of true expert-marked terrain.
Nightlife
Obertauern nightlife includes the legendary Lürzer Alm and Latschn Alm, while clubs and late bars such as Mundwerk keep the evenings going. The overall atmosphere is lively, traditional and distinctly Austrian rather than polished.
Bars & Restaurants
Obertauern has approximately 40+ restaurants ranging from traditional alpine dining to modern international cuisine.
Notable spots include:
Lürzer Alm – iconic slope-side venue mixing Austrian classics with famous après ski
Gruberstadl – rustic mountain restaurant known for hearty local food and terrace atmosphere
Mundwerk – stylish restaurant-bar with a more contemporary feel in the resort centre.
The food scene is solid and convenient, with more hut character than destination gourmet prestige.