Isolated mountain refuge surrounded by tall snow-covered pine trees and mountains in the Austrian Alps.

A complete guide to Kaltenbach

Everything you need for your Kaltenbach ski holiday.
10th November, 2024
5 min read time

Kaltenbach is more than just a quaint village; it's a captivating ski destination known for its scenic beauty and excellent ski facilities.

As one of the top ski resorts in Austria, Kaltenbach offers an ideal combination of charm and adventure. We've put this practical guide together to make planning your Kaltenbach ski holiday a breeze. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.

Ready to jump in? Let's get started!

Kaltenbach, Austria - overview

  1. Where is Kaltenbach?
  2. Kaltenbach the resort
  3. Kaltenbach ski area
  4. Skiing in Kaltenbach
  5. Kaltenbach ski season dates
  6. Kaltenbach snow history
  7. Restaurants in Kaltenbach
  8. Things to do in Kaltenbach
  9. Kaltenbach apres ski, and nightlife
  10. Kaltenbach resort map
  11. Practical information

Where is Kaltenbach?

Kaltenbach is located in the Zillertal Valley, in Tyrol.


Nearest airport

  • Innsbruck (58 km)

Transfer time

  • Innsbruck (51 min)

Kaltenbach the resort

  • Resort altitude: 560 m
  • Resort permanent residents: 1313
Kaltenbach, once a humble farming village in the 60s and 70s, has blossomed into a cherished ski resort. The introduction of ski lifts and the rising popularity of ski vacations catalyzed this transformation. The architecture of the village fuses traditional Tyrolean charm with modern facilities. Here, classic alpine chalets stand side by side with contemporary hotels, providing a range of cozy and welcoming accommodations. These are mainly located in Kaltenbach and extend into nearby Ried im Zillertal and Stumm. The ambiance is inviting and warm, a reflection of the resort's modest origins, making it an ideal destination for those seeking alpine thrills and the tranquility offered by the stunning Zillertal Valley scenery.
                                                                                       
ProsCons
Easy accessLow elevation base
Short lift queuesRuns relying solely on snowmaking
Stunning panoramic views of the Zillertal ValleyLots of day skiers

Here is what it's like at the Kaltenbach resort

(Ref: Tirol)

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Kaltenbach ski area

  • Summit elevation: 2300 m
  • Kilometres of pistes: 69 km (489 km - Zillertal valley)
  • Vertical drop: 1740 m
  • Ski lifts: 16
Kaltenbach boasts 69 km of pistes, comprising 15 blue, 17 red, and 7 black runs, all efficiently connected by 16 ski lifts. The skiing action in Kaltenbach centers around two main sectors:

  1. Hochzillertal: This is the heart of the skiing action in Kaltenbach, where skiers and snowboarders of all abilities will find something to enjoy. It's home to the longest piste in the area, a 12 km descent that offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning alpine landscape.
  2. Hochfügen: Known for its more challenging terrain, Hochfügen is ideal for experienced skiers looking for adrenaline-filled runs, and access to exceptional off-piste opportunities.

Skiing in Kaltenbach

Beginners

The summit of the main gondola presents an array of beginner and child-friendly zones clustered around the terminal. Near the base parking area, five drag lifts provide an ideal space for beginners to hone their skills.

Intermediates

The Schnee Express, a heated eight-seater chairlift, grants access to scenic intermediate slopes, notably the Panorama draglifts that offer breathtaking views of the southern Ziller Valley. The "Z" blue run provides an enjoyable traverse across the Kaltenbach bowls.

Advanced

The Krössbichlbahn chairlift zone introduces advanced skiers to challenging black and red slopes. Additionally, the Neuhüttenbahn chair and Sonnenjet high-speed lift zones present more demanding runs. Further thrills can be found along the connection to Hochfügen, with black runs branching from the Topjet and Wedelexpress chairlifts.

Off-piste

For those with a penchant for off-piste skiing, the Neuhüttenbahn chair area becomes a favorite, especially when conditions are favorable.

Snowboarding

The vast expanse of bowls, the variety of runs, and the connective routes between Kaltenbach and Hochfügen offer ample opportunities for snowboarders to carve their mark on the slopes.

Kaltenbach ski season dates

The ski season in Kaltenbach for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 6th and run until April 21st. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Kaltenbach this season, be sure to explore our Kaltenbach ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Kaltenbach snow history

Hochzillertal-Kaltenbach offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 17 cm and 21 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 16 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Hochzillertal-Kaltenbach, with an impressive 24 cm of snow over 2.9 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 9 cm of snow over 1.6 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.


                                                                                                                                                                   
MonthSnow amount (week)Snow days (week)
December17 cm2.8 days
January21 cm3.2 days
February16 cm3.0 days
March12 cm2.7 days
April9 cm1.6 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Restaurants in Kaltenbach

  • Kaltenbacher Skihütte: A classic alpine retreat, a skier's haven, the perfect spot to warm up with traditional Austrian dishes after a day on the slopes.
  • Alpine Inn Zirmstadl: Nestled high in the mountains, the Zirmstadl is known for its traditional Tyrolean cuisine.
  • Platzlalm: This high-altitude gem provides not only a panoramic view of the Ziller Valley but also a menu bursting with local flavors. making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
  • Schistadl: A vibrant hub for winter enthusiasts, this is the place to be for those looking to combine great food with a lively atmosphere.
  • Landgasthof Linde: Situated in the heart of Kaltenbach, this restaurant is renowned for its Austrian delicacies.
  • Restaurant GuatzEssen: A contemporary twist on classic Austrian dining, GuatzEssen showcases innovation in its menu from traditional dishes given a modern overhaul, to fresh takes on international cuisine.

Things to do in Kaltenbach

  • Zillertal spa
  • Wall climbing
  • Ice skating
  • Winter hiking
  • Tobboganing
  • Cultural excursions
  • Cross-country skiing

Kaltenbach apres ski and nightlife

Postalm

Known as the heartbeat of Kaltenbach's apres ski scene, Postalm offers a lively atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the mountain spirit.

VIP Bar Hochzillertal

True to its name, this bar offers an exclusive apres ski experience with plush interiors, curated music, and a sophisticated drinks menu.

sChic Lifestyle & Bar

Contemporary and chic, sChic provides a modern touch to the traditional apres ski scene.

Seetal-Schirm

A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Seetal-Schirm combines the best of Tyrolean hospitality with an infectious party vibe.

Kashütte

A rustic haven, Kashütte offers a cozy ambiance where guests can unwind with a mug of hot glühwein. Its charm lies in its traditional décor and the warmth of wooden logs crackling in the fireplace.

FirnBar

As the sun sets, FirnBar becomes a hub of activity. With an expansive terrace overlooking the slopes, it's the ideal spot to enjoy a drink, soak in the views, and relish the mountain air.

Skybar

Elevated experiences await at Skybar. As its name suggests, this bar offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, making it a picturesque spot to enjoy a cocktail and watch the world go by.

The Marendalm

Evoking the spirit of the Alps, the Marendalm is a blend of tradition and festivity. With its hearty food and lively music, it promises an apres ski experience that's both authentic and unforgettable.

The Wedelhütte

Nestled high in the mountains, the Wedelhütte is a luxurious retreat. Its sophisticated ambiance, gourmet bites, and curated wine list make it a haven for those seeking a refined apres ski experience.

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Kaltenbach resort map

Kaltenbach village map

Download Kaltenbach resort map here

Practical information

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