Set in the heart of Ski Amadé, Austria's largest ski network, Flachau is a dynamic resort renowned for its excellent snow reliability, modern ski infrastructure, and buzzing après-ski scene. As part of the Salzburger Sportwelt, it offers seamless access to 210 km (130 miles) of interconnected slopes spanning Flachau, Wagrain, and St. Johann. Blending traditional alpine charm with state-of-the-art facilities, Flachau boasts fast gondolas, a vibrant freestyle scene, and ski-friendly lodging.
As one of the best ski resorts in Austria, Flachau caters to all abilities, delivering perfectly groomed slopes, legendary après-ski, and a well-connected ski area in the heart of Ski Amadé.
This guide is your ultimate resource for planning the perfect Flachau ski holiday—from its prime location and expansive ski terrain to historical snow patterns, dining highlights, and après-ski hotspots. And that’s not all—by the end, you’ll find essential travel information, contact details, and useful links to make your trip seamless.
Let's get started!
Flachau is located in the Austrian state of Salzburg, approximately 72 km (45 miles) south of Salzburg.
For a detailed view of Flachau's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast, modern lift system | Limited expert terrain |
| Vibrant après-ski and nightlife | Can get busy during peak season |
| Just 1hr drive from Salzburg airport | Lower altitude than some Austrian resorts |
| Cheaper than other Austrian ski resorts | No really long runs |
Flachau is excellent for beginners, with dedicated nursery areas and gentle blue runs leading from the Star Jet lift. Families will appreciate Wagraini’s Winter World and Zauchi’s Kinderland, which offer child-friendly slopes, adventure areas, and interactive learning zones. Additionally, the Snow Spacester lifts are designed specifically for young children, making their first ski experiences smooth and fun.
Intermediates will love the variety of blue and red runs spanning Flachau, Wagrain, and St. Johann. The 5 valleys of Snow Space Salzburg feature well-prepared vertical runs, allowing for long, uninterrupted descents with breathtaking views of the Hohe and Niedere Tauern mountains. For those looking to push their limits, Flachau boasts a World Cup ski slope, offering the same runs tackled by elite international racers.
While Flachau itself lacks extreme terrain, Zauchensee is a freeride hotspot, featuring steep tree runs, off-piste powder zones, and legendary freeride routes like the "East" route on Gamskogel. This area has become a go-to for powder lovers due to its high-altitude location and reliable snow cover, making it a must-visit for advanced skiers.
Flachau is a major hub for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. The Absolut Park in Flachauwinkl is one of Europe’s largest and most renowned freestyle parks, stretching over 1.5 km and featuring 100+ obstacles, a halfpipe, boardercross courses, and specialized freestyle lines. Additionally, the Snowpark Alpendorf provides another excellent terrain park experience.
The ski season in Flachau for 2024/25 started on November 29th, and run until April 21st, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Flachau this winter, be sure to explore our Flachau deals for the best ski offers available.
Flachau offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 20 cm (7.87 in) and 26 cm (10.23 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.3 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 21 cm (8.26 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.4 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Flachau, with 34 cm (13.38 in) of snow over 4.1 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm (4.72 in) of snow over 1.9 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 20 cm/7.87 in | 3.0 days |
| January | 26 cm/10.23 in | 3.5 days |
| February | 21 cm/8.26 in | 3.4 days |
| March | 16 cm/6.29 in | 3.0 days |
| April | 12 cm/4.72 in | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Whether you’re craving traditional alpine dishes, gourmet experiences, or a casual bite, Flachau’s restaurants and mountain huts deliver quality and atmosphere. Highlights include:
Flachau is renowned for its legendary après-ski, making it one of the liveliest resorts in Austria. The Hofstadl is Flachau’s most iconic après-ski venue, located directly at the Star Jet valley station. It’s the perfect place to end a day on the slopes, transitioning from a cozy mountain hut serving traditional food to a high-energy party hub. Other highlights, include:
For an interactive version of the map, visit the Flachau tourist office. There, you can easily locate accommodation, restaurants, sports facilities, meeting points, event venues, and more to help you plan your stay effortlessly.
