Ellmau is a charming village in the Austrian Alps, located in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental, one of the largest ski areas in Austria. The resort offers 284 km of pistes across multiple interconnected villages, suitable for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers, with modern lifts and a variety of snowparks. There are over 230 km of slopes in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental that can be artificially snowed within three days, thanks to 1,700+ snow machines, you can ski with confidence all season. Its northwest-facing slopes help preserve natural snow, making it a highly reliable snow destination.
Ellmau itself is a charming Alpine village with cosy taverns, bars, and traditional Austrian dining. Off-slope activities include paragliding, ice skating, carriage rides, winter hiking, and tobogganing, which is perfect for families or friends looking for variety. Guests also receive the free Wilder Kaiser GuestCard, which includes free ski bus transport, Wi-Fi hotspots, discounts on activities, and guided hikes.
Staying in Ellmau gives you easy access to the SkiWelt network while enjoying the charm of a traditional Tyrolean village.
📍 Location
Ellmau is in the Wilder Kaiser region of the Austrian Alps, part of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski area.
🚗 Access
- Nearest Airport: Salzburg (75 km, ~1 hr 15 min drive)
- Transport: Car, train to Kufstein or Wörgl + bus/taxi, or private transfer
🌟 Unique Features
- Direct Access to SkiWelt: One of Austria’s largest ski areas with 284 km of slopes
- Traditional Village Charm: Tyrolean architecture and relaxed atmosphere
- Hartkaiserbahn Gondola: Modern 10-seater lift from Bergbahnen Wilder Kaiser to the slopes
- Filming Location: Known for the TV series Der Bergdoktor
🎿 Best Ski Season
Mid-December to early April. Snowmaking ensures consistent coverage.
👥 Suitable For
- Beginners: Gentle slopes and ski schools like Skischule Ellmau-Hartkaiser and TOP Skischule Ellmau
- Intermediates: Wide red runs across SkiWelt
- Experts: Black runs and off-piste options
- Freestylers: KaiserPark Ellmau SnowPark offers jumps and features
🚌 Local Transport
Free ski buses and the KaiserJet shuttle connect Ellmau with nearby villages and lifts.
🗺️ Ski Runs
- 284 km of slopes in SkiWelt
- 90 lifts including Vetterstätt and Bergstation Jochbahn
- Includes Bergstation Eibergbahn for access to key terrain
🍽️ Restaurants & Shopping
- Mountain huts and village restaurants serve Austrian cuisine
- Shops offer ski gear, essentials, and local products
🧗 Other Activities
- Tobogganing, winter hiking, snowshoeing
- Spa and wellness centers
- Sightseeing: Wilder Kaiser views, historic church, Der Bergdoktor filming spots
🎁 Extras
- SnowPark: KaiserPark Ellmau SnowPark for freestyle skiing
- Ski Schools: Skischule Ellmau-Hartkaiser and TOP Skischule Ellmau
- Lift System: Fast, modern, and well-connected via SkiWelt
Ellmau offers direct access to Austria’s top terrain with a cozy village vibe and strong infrastructure. Ideal for families, first-timers, and seasoned skiers alike.
📍 Best Areas to Stay
- Near Hartkaiserbahn – For direct lift access and ski-in/ski-out convenience
- Ellmau Town Centre – For shops, restaurants, and ski school access
Outskirts of Ellmau – For quieter stays with mountain views and easy ski bus access
