The Best Villages in Austria If You're Looking for Peace and Quiet
Not everyone travels to Austria for lively terraces, loud music and a vibrant après-ski scene. For many winter sports enthusiasts, a holiday is all about peace, nature and spending quality time together in the mountains. A day on the slopes, a walk through a snow covered village and then relaxing in a comfortable chalet. For many families, couples and groups of friends, that's the perfect ski holiday. Fortunately, Austria is still home to many destinations where hospitality and tranquillity take centre stage, without the crowds and nightlife of the larger ski resorts.
You'll Often Find the Most Peace Away from the Well-Known Ski Resorts
Choosing a smaller mountain village allows you to experience a different side of Austria. The atmosphere is more relaxed, lift queues are often shorter and you'll enjoy the authentic charm of the region. That doesn't mean you'll have to compromise on quality. Modern ski lifts, excellent restaurants and beautiful ski areas are all within easy reach.
A great example is the Wildkogel Arena, with the villages of Neukirchen am Großvenediger and Bramberg am Wildkogel. Here, you'll find a family friendly ski area while staying in peaceful surroundings with stunning mountain views.
Another favourite is Hochkrimml, located on the edge of the Zillertal Arena. It's an excellent choice for skiers who want access to a large ski area while staying in a quiet mountain village. You can enjoy fantastic slopes during the day and return to a relaxed setting in the evening.
A Relaxing Ski Holiday Starts with the Right Destination
The Hochkönig region is also known for its charming mountain villages and welcoming atmosphere. Places such as Maria Alm, Dienten and Mühlbach offer the perfect balance between excellent skiing and peaceful surroundings. Instead of lively party streets, you'll find cosy restaurants, beautiful winter walking trails and a relaxed holiday atmosphere. If you're looking for a little more variety, Zell am See Kaprun is another excellent option. While Zell am See itself is a little livelier, the surrounding area offers plenty of peaceful accommodations where you can enjoy nature while still being close to all the facilities and activities.
In our experience, these destinations are especially popular with families, couples and groups of friends who value comfort, space and a relaxed holiday. No noisy nights, just waking up to snow covered mountain peaks and starting the day at your own pace. A ski holiday without après-ski certainly doesn't mean there's less to do. Quite the opposite. It simply gives you more time to enjoy everything that makes Austria so special: breathtaking scenery, welcoming mountain villages, excellent restaurants and unforgettable days in the snow.
