Saalbach and Hinterglemm

Saalbach H’glemm Ski Resort Guide

About the Resort

The separate villages of Saalbach and Hinterglemm one of Austria’s most popular ski resorts and their  centres are only about 2 miles apart from each other but remain independent in character. Saalbach is a traditional style village which has pistes coming down in to the village centre. It has a reputation for being a party town. Hinterglemm is not as rowdy and doesn’t attract the same type of visitor as Saalbach. It is still a lively and attractive destination with access to a good valley bus service, its’ own lifts and runs close to the centre of the village.

This extensive ski area offers a variety of slopes, modern lifts, and a lively après-ski scene. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your ski trip to Saalbach and Hinterglemm:

Overview:

• Location: Saalbach and Hinterglemm are located in the state of Salzburg, about 90 km (56 miles) from Salzburg city.
• Ski Area: The resort forms part of the Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn ski area, which is one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Austria.
• Altitude: The resort’s main area ranges between 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and 2,096 meters (6,877 feet) above sea level.

Skiing & Snowboarding:

• Total Slopes: Over 270 km (168 miles) of marked ski slopes, suitable for all skill levels.
  • Beginner: Many gentle blue runs are located in the areas around Saalbach and Hinterglemm. Beginners can learn in a comfortable setting while enjoying beautiful views.
  • Intermediate: This resort is a haven for intermediate skiers, with lots of wide, fast pistes offering long, enjoyable runs.
  • Advanced: There are challenging red and black runs, with the famous “Kohlmais” and “Schattberg West” areas catering to advanced skiers. The terrain here includes steep mogul runs and freeride zones.
• Freeride: The ski area also offers ample terrain for freeriders, including deep powder runs and off-piste areas.
• Snowparks: The resort is home to snowparks, including the “Betterpark” on the Schattberg X-press, featuring jumps, rails, and other freestyle elements.

Lifts & Access:

• Lifts: Over 70 modern lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and drag lifts.
• Lift Pass: A single lift pass grants access to the entire Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn ski area, with options for multi-day passes and family discounts.

Après-Ski & Entertainment:

• Après-Ski: Saalbach-Hinterglemm is renowned for its vibrant après-ski scene. Whether you’re looking for laid-back mountain huts or lively bars, there’s something for everyone.
  • Popular spots: The Hinterhag Alm in Hinterglemm and the Schnaps Hans at the base of the Schattberg are famous for their après-ski parties.
• Restaurants: There are numerous cozy alpine restaurants, from traditional Austrian huts serving hearty local dishes (like schnitzel and strudel) to modern, upscale eateries.
• Nightlife: For evening entertainment, both Saalbach and Hinterglemm offer bars, clubs, and music venues, with live bands and DJs frequently performing.

Other Activities:

• Cross-Country Skiing: There are around 40 km (25 miles) of cross-country skiing tracks around the area.
• Tobogganing: Nighttime tobogganing on the “Reiterkogel” run is a thrilling experience.
• Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing: Several marked winter hiking trails are available for non-skiers, along with snowshoeing routes.
• Ice Skating & Curling: There are facilities for ice skating and curling in both Saalbach and Hinterglemm.

Family-Friendly:

• Children’s Areas: Both Saalbach and Hinterglemm offer great facilities for children, with dedicated beginner areas and ski schools that cater to young learners.
• Childcare: Many hotels and ski schools offer childcare services, so parents can enjoy their day on the slopes with peace of mind.

Accommodation:

• Range of Options: The area offers a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury hotels and chalets to budget-friendly guesthouses and apartments.
• Saalbach: Known for its upscale hotels and lively town center, it’s perfect for those who want to be close to both the slopes and après-ski activities.
• Hinterglemm: A bit quieter than Saalbach, Hinterglemm is ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the action.

Travel Tips:

• Getting There:
  • The nearest airport is Salzburg (about 1.5 hours by car). Munich and Innsbruck airports are also within reach.
  • If you’re traveling by train, the nearest major station is in Zell am See, which is about 20 minutes away by bus or taxi.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip. The resort typically has good snow conditions from December through April, but some years can experience variable snow coverage early in the season.

Conclusion:

Saalbach-Hinterglemm offers a great combination of excellent skiing, vibrant après-ski, and a welcoming atmosphere for both beginners and seasoned skiers. With its vast ski area, variety of slopes, and abundance of activities off the slopes, it’s an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.