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A serene alpine scene with a small chapel, ski lifts in the background, and snowy mountains bathed in sunlight, offering a peaceful winter escapeA serene alpine scene with a small chapel, ski lifts in the background, and snowy mountains bathed in sunlight, offering a peaceful winter escape

A complete guide to Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

Everything you need for your Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski holiday.
19th August, 2025
5 min read time

Perched high in the Austrian Alps, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, together known simply as Gurgl, offer one of the most snow-sure and scenic ski destinations in the Alps. Obergurgl charms with its traditional Tyrolean architecture and family-friendly feel, while Hochgurgl sits even higher, offering a more exclusive and tranquil atmosphere. Both villages boast high-quality hotels, efficient lift access, and doorstep skiing, making Gurgl a top choice for comfort, convenience, and adventure. As one of the top ski resorts in Austria for families and couples alike, Gurgl combines reliable snow, varied terrain, and relaxed après-ski in a spectacular alpine setting.

This guide is your key to easily planning the perfect Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski holiday. It covers everything you need, from the resort's prime location and expansive ski terrain to its historical snow patterns and top dining and après-ski venues. But that's not all. By the end of this guide, you'll find all the essential contact details and useful links you'll need.

Let's get started!

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, Austria - overview

  1. Where is Obergurgl?
  2. Obergurgl vs Hochgurgl
  3. Gurgl ski area
  4. Skiing in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
  5. Gurgl ski pass prices 2025/26
  6. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski season dates
  7. Obergurgl snow history
  8. Restaurants in Gurgl
  9. Things to do in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
  10. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl après-ski, and nightlife
  11. Obergurgl resort map
  12. Obergurgl tourist information

Where is Obergurgl?

Obergurgl is located in the Tyrol region of Austria, just 13 km (8 mi) south of Sölden and close to the Italian border.



Nearest airport

  • Innsbruck: 96 km (59.65 mi)

Transfer time

  • Innsbruck: 1hr 26 min

Obergurgl vs Hochgurgl

  • Obergurgl elevation: 1,930 m (6,332 ft)
  • Hochgurgl elevation: 2,150 m (7,053 ft)
- Obergurgl**: **One of the highest villages in the Alps, Obergurgl blends excellent snow reliability with authentic Alpine charm. This centuries old village, complete with an 18th century church and traditional wooden buildings, offers a peaceful and picturesque setting. The ski-in/ski-out hotels are well equipped, think pools, playrooms, and spas, and most are just steps from the lifts. The vibe is relaxed in the evenings, perfect for quiet dinners and fireside nightcaps, though the lively _Nederhütte_ bar offers classic après-ski energy with its daily live rock band. - Hochgurgl**: **Smaller and more exclusive, Hochgurgl is a high-altitude hamlet ideal for those seeking a luxurious, low-key escape. With only a handful of upscale hotels, many boasting gourmet dining and spa facilities, the atmosphere here is calm and refined. It’s a paradise for intermediate skiers, with wide, cruisy blue runs right outside your door. Après is understated, usually enjoyed with a drink on a sunny terrace or in a cosy lounge.
                                                                                                           
ProsCons
High-altitude skiingMost runs above treeline
Classic Austrian village atmospherePricey accommodations
Quality ski-in/ski-out hotels with spasLimited non-skiing activities
Family-friendlyPoor nightlife

Here is how Obergurgl-Hochgurgl look like



(Ref: Martin Kuhn)


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Gurgl ski area

  • Highest lift: 3,030 m (9,940 ft)
  • Kilometres of pistes: 112 km (69.59 mi)
  • Vertical drop: 1,237 m (4,058 ft)
  • Ski lifts: 25
The Gurgl ski area, offers 112 kilometers (69.59 mi) of well maintained pistes across two main sectors; Hochgurgl and Obergurgl, with each providing about 56 km (34.7 mi) of slopes, all connected efficiently by 25 modern lifts that ensure minimal wait times.

  • Obergurgl sector: this area offers a varied skiing experience with most slopes leading directly back to the village, allowing for easy ski-in & ski-out access. Beginners can enjoy gentle slopes near the Gaisberg and Mahdstuhl lifts, while more experienced skiers might prefer the moderately challenging Festkogel runs or the demanding mogul piste from Hohe Mut. The Rosskarbahn, a new lift, improves access from the village center to the ski area, enhancing convenience for both skiers and pedestrians.
  • Hochgurgl sector: ideal for skiers looking to advance their skills, Hochgurgl features numerous blue slopes suitable for beginners ready to progress. For advanced skiers, challenging runs await at Schermerspitze and the steep trail from Top Mountain Star to the Wurmkogl middle station. The longest run, spanning 8 km (4.97 mi) with a 1,260 m (4,133 ft) altitude difference, offers a thrilling descent from Wurmkogl to Obergurgl/Pill.

Skiing in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

Beginners

Obergurgl offers beginner skiers convenient and accessible nursery areas near the village center and at the lower end of the village, ensuring short distances to practice those initial turns. Once ready to move on from the basics, beginners can take the Hohe Mut gondola for gentle runs below the Bruggenboden chairlift, which are perfect for building confidence.

Intermediates

The Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski area is an intermediate paradise, featuring a network of cruisy blues and reds. Intermediate skiers can enjoy the spacious runs at the top of the Festkogel gondola, which offer spectacular mountaintop views. For those days when the snow falls, the tree-lined pistes near the Steimannbahn chairlift provide excellent skiing conditions.

Advanced

Advanced skiers will find ample challenges in Obergurgl, including the Hohe Mut's large mogul runs and the steep Festkogl ski routes that are thrilling in fresh powder. For more off-piste action, the Hochgurgl area’s Königstal offers excellent opportunities, and the high-altitude black runs from the top of the Wurmkogl provide exhilarating descents.

Snowboarding

Obergurgl is snowboard-friendly with few drag lifts and a mix of terrains that cater to different skill levels. Snowboarders looking for a challenge will find the snow park by the Steinmannbahn chairlift ideal, with a variety of jumps and features to test their skills.

Off-piste

Obergurgl is renowned for its pristine off-piste slopes that attract freeriders seeking powder stashes. The unmarked ski areas, especially around Hochgurgl’s Königstal, are perfect for exploring untouched snow. Always check the latest avalanche reports for safety before heading out.

Gurgl ski pass prices 2025/26

Below is a snapshot of 7 day ski pass prices based on pre-season dates: 20 November to 5 December 2025.

                               
DurationAdults (2005 or earlier)Children (2011-2017)Youth (2006-2010)
1 day$ 73.5$ 40.5$ 59.5
2 days$ 140$ 78$ 113
3 days$ 227.5$ 125$ 182
4 days$ 297$ 163.5$ 237.5
5 days$ 369.5$ 214.5$ 312
5 in 7 days$ 390$ 214.5$ 312
6 days$ 432.5$ 238$ 346
6 in 8 days$ 462$ 254$ 369.5

To view more ski pass options, please visit Gurgl ski pass prices

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski season dates

The Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski season for 2025/26 is scheduled to run from 11 November to 19 April 2026. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Obergurgl deals for the best ski offers available.

Obergurgl snow history

Obergurgl offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 30 cm (11.8 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.6 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 29 cm (11.4 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 4.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Obergurgl, with an impressive 43 cm (16.9 in) of snow over 4.7 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 31 cm (12.2 in) of snow over 4.3 days.


                                                                                                                                                                   
MonthSnow amount (week)Snow days (week)
December30 cm3.6 days
January30 cm3.6 days
February29 cm4.0 days
March32 cm4.4 days
April31 cm4.3 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Restaurants in Gurgl

Dining in Gurgl is a culinary journey where alpine tradition meets refined creativity. In Obergurgl, cosy village restaurants and hotel eateries serve up warm hospitality and hearty regional fare. Cheese lovers will feel right at home at The Enzian, with its wide selection of fondues, while Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl offers a magical experience: fondue under the stars, thanks to its panoramic glass roof. For something more relaxed, restaurant Pic-Nic delivers homemade pizza and alpine charm in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. Over in Hochgurgl, the focus shifts to high-altitude elegance. Hotel Riml impresses with four course Austrian dinners and an extensive wine list, while Top Mountain Crosspoint, perched at 2,175 metres, combines spectacular views with Austrian and Italian classics. For a truly local experience, Toni’s Almhütte at Sporthotel Olymp offers big portions, rustic décor, and a warm fireplace, perfect after a day on the slopes.

Things to do in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

  • Winter hiking
  • Ski mountaineering
  • Snowshoe hiking
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Tobogganing
  • Sledding
  • Wellness and beauty
  • Ice skating
  • Nature park
  • Indoor golf
  • Aqua Dome
  • Freizeit Arena
  • Wine tasting
  • Gourmet Gondola
  • Top mountain motorcycle experience
  • Obergurgl stone pine forest

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl après-ski, and nightlife

Après-ski in Gurgl ranges from lively to laid-back. Obergurgl has the most action, with mountain bars like Nederhütte offering live music and classic alpine vibes, while village spots like Fassl Bar, See You, and Josl Keller bring variety with cocktails, dancing, and quirky games. Hochgurgl is quieter, perfect for relaxed drinks in cosy huts like Toni’s Alpine Hut or a round of indoor golf at the Putt-In Bar.

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Obergurgl resort map

Obergurgl town map

Download Obergurgl resort map here

Obergurgl tourist information

  • Obergurgl tourist office address: Gurglerstraße 118, 6456 Obergurgl
  • T.O tel: +43 57 200 100
  • T.O email: gurgl@oetztal.com
  • For visa & passport travel advice, visit here

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