Obergurgl's ski scene took off in the 1930s, when ski enthusiasts discovered the village of Obergurgl and its easily accessible slopes. This area developed to become the outstanding Ötztal ski area. Many hotels were built in Obergurgl back at this time to provide accommodation for the influx of skiers who came to discover the wonderful skiing here. Most of these hotels still exist today, and give Obergurgl a traditional Austrian charm that makes the resort extremely popular. Obergurgl and the nearby Hochgurgl, which mainly consists of ski-in, ski-out hotels, are connected by a gondola and regular bus service.
With 110km of beautifully prepared ski slopes, the Ötztal ski area has something for everyone. Modern, efficient ski lifts ferry skiers and snowboarders directly to the slopes from the villages of Obergurgl and Hochgurgl. There is a predominance of red and blue slopes, offering both beginners and intermediate skiers the chance to have lots of fun while practicing and improving their skills. There are a couple of exhilarating, high-altitude black runs for the more advanced skiers and plenty of gentle runs back down to the resorts, making for a relaxing return at the end of the day. As this ski area is one of the highest in Austria, skiers at Obergurgl-Hochgurgl are normally guaranteed excellent snow conditions well into May. It goes without saying that up at 3000m, you'll be treated to some unforgettable panoramic views of the Dolomites too.
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112km of slopes to explore... where will you start? The Top Express gondola will get you from Obergurgl to Hochgurgl in just 9 minutes, so you're free to hop back and forth between the two ski areas while admiring the spectacular views. A must-do is the Wurmkogl – Obergurgl/Pill valley run, which is 8km long with a vertical drop of over a kilometre. Although the ski area is best suited to intermediate skiers and boarders, there are a few black runs including one mogul run that will give experts a run for their money. Gurgl has a well-developed freeriding scene, with off-piste terrain that is easily accessible not too far from the lifts. The new Kirchenkar mountain gondola II facilitates access to even more backcountry routes. On the freestyle side, you'll find a snow park, funslopes and boardercross on "Fun Mountain" as well as night skiing several days a week. When you can't feel your legs anymore, take a break at one of the mountain restaurants, perhaps the panorama bar at the Wurmkogl.
