Ski holidays with children can be a mix of magic and mayhem—but every year, we keep coming back for more. Our family tradition of hitting the slopes in Austria continues strong, and this year was no different. My dream has always been to visit Tirol and let my kids experience skiing in one of the most iconic alpine regions—and finally, we made it happen!
Why Austria you ask? Because it is one of the most kid-friendly destinations we’ve ever visited. From thoughtful little touches to full-blown family-focused services, they think of everything. Wherever we go, we’re always met with warm smiles and snowy adventures. And let’s not forget the nature—Austria’s mountain landscapes are truly something else.
You can also find more great ski destinations in Austria that I’ve visited here.
Why is St Anton am Arlberg famous?
St. Anton am Arlberg is one of the most iconic ski destinations in Austria—and for good reason. Often called the “cradle of alpine skiing,” it’s the birthplace of modern ski techniques and home to the first ski school in the world, founded in the early 1900s. This charming village in the Tyrolean Alps has grown into a legendary resort that attracts ski enthusiasts from all over the world.
It’s famous for its combination of challenging slopes, deep powder, and a lively après-ski scene. The resort is part of the Arlberg ski area, one of Austria’s largest and most interconnected regions, offering over 300 km of slopes and 200 km of off-piste terrain. The St. Anton ski pass gives you access to neighboring resorts like Lech, Zürs, and Stuben, making it a skier’s paradise.
But it’s not just for advanced skiers—St. Anton is incredibly family-friendly. Austria is known for its warm hospitality toward children, and St. Anton is no exception. With top-tier ski schools, gentle beginner areas, and dedicated kids’ zones, it’s an ideal destination for ski holidays with children. Everything is thoughtfully designed to make families feel welcome, from rental shops with kids’ gear to restaurants with play areas.
St. Anton ski holidays in Winter
In the winter, St. Anton transforms into a snowy wonderland where there’s something for everyone. Skiing and snowboarding take center stage, but that’s just the beginning. You can also explore cross-country ski trails that wind through forests and meadows, offering a peaceful and scenic alternative to the downhill action. Toboggan runs, ice skating, and cozy mountain huts for hot chocolate breaks add to the charm.
We visited in early April, and there was still plenty of snow—perfect for our kids to enjoy their ski lessons. The conditions were great, and it was incredible to see how well the area caters to young skiers.
St. Anton am Arlberg in Summer
When the snow melts, St. Anton becomes a lush, green alpine playground. The hiking trails open up to stunning panoramic views, waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows. During our visit, we did a lot of hiking with the kids, and the fresh mountain air was just what we needed after a long winter.
Mountain bikers will also find a variety of well-marked trails, ranging from scenic family rides to more technical downhill routes. There are also opportunities for rock climbing, paragliding, and even wellness and spa experiences for a more relaxed summer stay.
ski holidays with children
How to get to St. Anton
One of the best things about St. Anton am Arlberg is how incredibly easy it is to reach, no matter where you’re coming from. You can fly into nearby airports like Innsbruck, Zurich, or Munich, and from there, it’s a smooth journey by train, car, or bus. The train station is right in the heart of the village, making it one of the most accessible ski resorts in the Alps. Whether you’re traveling with kids, bulky ski gear, or just want a stress-free trip, getting to St. Anton couldn’t be simpler.
Is St. Anton am Arlberg expensive for skiing?
St. Anton am Arlberg is one of Austria’s most iconic ski resorts—and with that reputation comes a price tag. While Austria is generally more affordable than neighboring Switzerland or France for skiing, St. Anton stands out as one of the more expensive resorts in the country. Here’s why:
- Après-Ski Culture: Legendary spots like MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh make it a hotspot for those who want fun off the slopes too.
- Prestige & History: It’s not just any ski resort—St. Anton has played a major role in ski culture and innovation.
- Huge Ski Area: With the Arlberg Ski Pass, you get access to over 300 km of slopes across multiple linked resorts like Lech, Zürs, and Stuben.
- Modern Infrastructure: Think high-speed gondolas, well-maintained pistes, and efficient ski lifts.
But Is It Worth It for Families? Yes—if you’re looking for a premium ski holiday with kids, St. Anton delivers. It’s equipped with:
- Excellent ski schools and kids’ programs
- Family-friendly accommodation options
- A strong focus on safety and infrastructure designed for all ages
It’s also one of the few resorts where the kids can learn to ski on gentle slopes while parents enjoy the challenge of advanced terrain—all in one place.
To cut costs, consider visiting:
- Early December (before the Christmas rush)
- Late March to early April – when you can still get great skiing, especially at higher altitudes, with better deals on stays and lift passes
So yes, St. Anton is on the expensive side—but in my opinion, it’s worth every euro for the unforgettable experience, snow reliability, and top-tier skiing. Whether you’re there for the slopes or the scene, it’s a bucket-list destination for good reason.
Where to Stay in St. Anton am Arlberg
When traveling with kids, finding the right hotel makes all the difference — and Valluga Hotel in St. Anton am Arlberg ticked all the boxes for us. We stayed there as a family of four: my partner, our two kids, and I. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt warm, welcoming, and tailored to families without compromising on style or comfort. The location is ideal — peaceful yet close enough to the village and ski lifts, with a gorgeous river view that gave our stay an extra layer of serenity.
Our Room at Valluga Hotel
Our family room was spacious and well-thought-out, offering two separate bedrooms, which was a huge plus for traveling with children. The layout made mornings smoother, especially with the two separate toilets — one with a shower and the other part of the main bathroom with a bathtub. It felt more like a small apartment than a standard hotel room. Everything we needed was already there: toiletries like shower gel, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bathrobes and cozy house slippers. The mini fridge was restocked daily with drinks, all included in the stay — a small but appreciated gesture. The kids were entertained with a wide range of TV channels, and we all enjoyed watching the beautiful river from our balcony. The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the quiet surroundings made for restful nights.
One of the real highlights of the Valluga hotel was the spa area. After a day of skiing or hiking, it was the perfect place to relax and recharge. The indoor pool was a hit with the kids, while I took full advantage of the jacuzzi corners, three different saunas, and the peaceful relaxation room with waterbeds. Everything felt beautifully maintained and never too crowded. The entire wellness space was thoughtfully designed, and you could easily spend a whole afternoon there. Tea and snacks were also provided. So lovely!
Breakfast & Dinner at Valluga Hotel
The food at Valluga Hotel exceeded expectations. Breakfasts were buffet-style, with a wide selection of high-quality options — including meats, cheeses, smoked salmon, and even macadamia nuts. Freshly pressed juices were available, and eggs could be ordered to your liking, served with sides like sausages, ham, mushrooms, or cheese. The dinners featured a menu with and the quality was outstanding. One night I was pleasantly surprised to be served a perfectly cooked octopus — a rare and delightful touch in the Alps! The staff and waiters were incredibly friendly, always ready to help, and made the dining experience feel relaxed and welcoming.
Will we come back? Definitely!
This trip to St. Anton — and especially our stay at Valluga Hotel — felt like a page out of a fairytale. The kids were completely enchanted, from skiing on snow-covered slopes in April to splashing in the pool and enjoying cozy family dinners. For us parents, it was the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Austria continues to be our favorite family-friendly destination, and Valluga Hotel just raised the bar even higher. We’ll absolutely be back!
Planning to visit Salzburg or Vienna? Check out my itineraries!
