Winter sports in Mayrhofen: everything you need to know for an unforgettable skiing holiday
How do you choose the right winter sports destination?
Ideally, you want a destination with beautiful slopes, guaranteed snow, a great atmosphere, and comfortable accommodation for you and your family or friends. But where can you find that perfect combination away from mass tourism?
Welcome to Mayrhofen, the largest village in the Zillertal valley in Tyrol. Located at an altitude of 633 metres between four side valleys containing reservoirs, it is one of Austria's most comprehensive winter sports destinations.
You will stay in a charming, characterful village with direct access to hundreds of kilometres of slopes, modern lifts, and all the facilities you could need.
Mayrhofen is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts who want more
Many people are familiar with Ischgl, Sölden or Gerlos. These are big names, but they also attract big crowds and have high prices. More and more people are choosing Mayrhofen, which is just that little bit more authentic and cosy, yet surprisingly versatile. Every year, we help dozens of groups and families find suitable winter holiday accommodation. We often hear afterwards:
“Perfect place! Lively, but not crowded. The slopes were good, and the house was within walking distance of the lift.”
What makes winter sports in Mayrhofen unique?
🎿 Varied ski slopes - suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers
🚡 Modern lifts and infrastructure – waiting times are kept to a minimum, even in high season
🏘️ Compact and well-organised village – atmosphere and amenities within easy reach
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for families and groups – children's slopes, ski schools and après-ski
❄️ Snow guaranteed up to 2,500 metres – with artificial snow where necessary
🍻 Après-ski Austrian style – cosy, but not vulgar
🧖 Peace seekers will also find what they are looking for – wellness and winter walks
Where can you ski in Mayrhofen? Areas, slopes & tips
Mayrhofen offers direct access to the Mayrhofen - Mountopolis and Zillertal3000 ski areas, with something for every type of winter sports enthusiast. Each sub-area has its own character:
- Penken is the place to be for sporty skiers. Here you will find challenging slopes, the famous Vans Penken Park for freestylers, and of course the legendary Harakiri descent with a gradient of 78% – only for the real daredevils.
- Ahorn, on the other hand, is ideal for families and those seeking peace and quiet. Wide, well-organised slopes, plenty of sunshine and panoramic views make this area perfect for beginners and families.
- Horberg and Rastkogel are connected to Penken by modern lifts and offer plenty of variety – ideal for long tours and a change of scenery.
- And then there is the Hintertux Glacier, about 25 km away, where you can ski all year round. Highly recommended for those looking for something extra or travelling in the early or late season.
From your holiday home in Mayrhofen, you can be at the right lift in no time: the Penkenbahn and Ahornbahn are both located in the village.
This combination of areas and styles ensures that you can ski differently every day – without getting bored.
Après-ski in Mayrhofen: lively, cosy and truly Austrian
A winter sports holiday is not complete without a good après-ski. And Mayrhofen knows exactly how to do it: atmosphere, music and conviviality – but without the loudness you sometimes see in other villages. Here, it's all about cosy mountain huts, live music, schnapps, mulled wine and dancing in your ski boots. From early afternoon until the wee hours, you can enjoy après-ski however you like: festive, convivial or just relaxed.
Tips: here's where to go for the best après-ski in Mayrhofen
1. Brück'n Stadl (near the Penkenbahn)
Who it's for: Partygoers who love music, dancing and a good time.
Also popular with Dutch and German visitors. Quiet during the day, getting busier from 3 p.m. onwards. Indoor & outdoor seating.
You'll end up here after a day of skiing without even planning to – and you'll stay until late..
2. Ice Bar Mayrhofen (near the Hotel Strass)
For whom: The classic après-ski experience with live music and DJs.
Well-known sing-alongs, schnapps and often a covered dance floor. Close to the gondola, so easily accessible.
The Ice Bar is where the party starts – but you decide how crazy you want it to be..
3. Scotland Yard Pub
For whom: A slightly quieter vibe, more of a pub feel. Popular with English and Dutch holidaymakers.
Darts, speciality beers and relaxed music.
Want to relax after a long day of skiing with a good glass of beer and a chat? This is the place for you
4. Kostner Bar (town centre)
Who it's for: A mix of locals and tourists. Not your standard après-ski bar, but more of a cosy evening bar.
Seating, friendly service and a good wine list.
“Perfect if you're with a group and want to keep the après-ski a little more mature.”
5. Pilzbar (at the top of the mountain!)
For whom: Early après-ski with a view.
At the top of the Penkenbahn, so you literally drink above the clouds. The perfect place to end your day of skiing before descending to the valley.
“Order a hot Jagatee and look out over the Zillertal. Unforgettable.”
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, go right after your last descent between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. Most bars are within walking distance of the lifts or in the centre..
Frequently asked questions answered
Is Mayrhofen suitable for children? Absolutely. There are ski schools with English-speaking instructors, practice slopes and child-friendly lifts. There is also plenty to do outside of skiing.
Is the area large enough for advanced skiers?
Yes. With the Zillertal 3000 pass, you have access to several areas. The Harakiri descent and freeride opportunities offer plenty of challenges.
Isn't it too crowded during school holidays?
It is popular, but thanks to the good lift capacity, it is not too crowded. Book your stay in advance and avoid peak times at the lift.
Practical tips for winter sports in Mayrhofen:
- Book your accommodation at least eight to twelve months in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during New Year's Eve or February.
- Choose somewhere close to the Penkenbahn (in the centre) or the Ahornbahn (in a quieter area).
- Book your ski equipment online to receive a 10–15% discount.
- Avoid the queues at the lifts by going outside peak hours (before 9:30am or after 11am).
- Combine skiing with tobogganing, winter hiking or wellness activities for a more relaxed pace.
- Don't forget your winter sports insurance!
Read what guests have said about winter sports in Mayrhofen:
Your next step
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Conclusion
How we make it happen:
Mayrhofen is an all-in-one winter sports destination. Whether you are travelling with children or a group of friends, the area offers challenge, atmosphere and comfort.
Why does this matter?
Your winter sports holiday is valuable – in terms of both time and money. So you want to go somewhere where everything is just right. And that is exactly what Mayrhofen offers.
Who can help you get started?
We know the accommodations, the areas and the wishes of our customers. That's why we can always help you.
What you can do now
- View our current winter offers in Mayrhofen.
- Read reviews from other guests.
Holiday homes Mayrhofen: a selection
Winter sports in Mayrhofen
Copyright:
1 Titelfoto: Winter in Mayrhofen-Hippach ©Paul Sürth
2 Skifahren am Ahorn ©Mayrhofner Bergbahnen
3 Snowbombing in Mayrhofen-Hippach ©Snowbombing
4 Winter - Skifahren - Spaß im Schnee © Dominic Ebenbichler
5 Big foto below:: Skifahren am Penken ©Mayrhofner Bergbahnen.jpg
Tourismusverband Mayrhofen-Hippach
My name is René Schwarte, founder and co-owner of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu. With many years of experience in holiday home rentals and deep familiarity with international guest expectations, I understand what makes a vacation truly enjoyable.
Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu offers a wide selection of carefully curated holiday homes, chalets and group accommodations throughout Austria. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with a group of up to 50 people – we help you find the right place with ease.
Our website is available in English, German and Dutch. We speak your language and are happy to assist you with any questions or special requests.
Need help?
Feel free to get in touch – we're here to make your Austrian holiday unforgettable.
Phone: +31854016545 Mail: info@Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu
René Schwarte
Co-OWNER
