St. Anton

Credited with being the first ever ski club way back in 1901, for many St Anton am Arlberg is synonymous with high-octane pleasures, altitudinous adventures and fresh mountain air. And with 210 miles of ski pistes, 120 miles of off -piste, 94 cable cars and lifts, St Anton and the surrounding area of Arlberg really is the place for thrill-seekers. 

Hand-in-hand with the pursuit of adrenaline often comes hedonism and St Anton is no exception. Famed for its legendary apres-ski scene, winter festivals and vibrant dining – some where you return in the dark by toboggan – it’s easy to join in with the merriment and many schnapps in the bars.

However, it’s not all one big ski party. The town of St Anton retains an authentic Alpine charm with gabled houses, old-fashioned chalets and panoramic restaurants ringed by snow-covered pine forests and jagged peaks. It’s also a great place to try Tyrolean cuisine including rosti, dumplings and pork knuckle. Influence from Italy takes the form of gourmet salads, Tyrolean beef carpaccio and pasta dishes.

In summer, St Anton becomes a huge outdoor playground among its wildflower meadows and forest hiking trails. Cable cars still operate so it’s easy to explore the mountains, villages and glaciers on foot or bike, stopping for dips in icy, crystal clear lakes.