Located in the westernmost Austrian state of Vorarlberg, Montafon is a hidden gem of the Alps, offering an impressive 297km of skiable terrain. This high-altitude resort stretches from 700 to 2,430 meters above sea level, providing skiers with a variety of runs and typically reliable snow conditions. Montafon’s ski area is spread across four main mountains – Silvretta Montafon, Golm, Gargellen, and Silbertal – each with its own unique charm.
With a blend of traditional charm and modern facilities, Montafon is a favourite among skiers of all levels. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging off-piste areas, there is something for everyone in Montafon.
Montafon Ski Area
The Montafon ski area is divided into four main mountains, each with its own unique flair. The largest of these is Silvretta Montafon, boasting 140km of skiable terrain. Golm is the second-largest with 44km of slopes, followed by Gargellen and Silbertal with 29km and 4km respectively. Montafon’s ski area features 113 runs, with 14% being green, 40% blue, 30% red, and 16% black.
Beginner Skiing in Montafon
Montafon is a fantastic resort for beginners, with a number of gentle slopes and excellent ski schools. The Silvretta Montafon area offers a dedicated beginner’s area, featuring wide and gentle slopes ideal for first-time skiers. The nursery slope at Kapellalpe is particularly popular, offering a safe and fun learning environment. Once you’ve mastered the basics, try out the blue runs at Gargellen, which feature wide slopes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Intermediate Skiing in Montafon
For intermediates, Montafon offers lots of opportunities to hone your skills. The Silvretta Montafon area is particularly well-suited to intermediate skiers, offering a good mix of blue and red runs. The blue runs from Hochjoch to Schruns are a great choice for those looking to boost their confidence, while the red runs at Golm offer more challenging terrain. One of our favourite runs for intermediate skiers is the Hochalpila run, a scenic and exhilarating red run that offers views of the Montafon valley.
Advanced Skiing in Montafon
Montafon’s advanced skiing options are just as impressive, with a variety of challenging black runs and off-piste opportunities. The black run from Grasjoch to Hochjoch, known as the ‘Black Scorpion’, is a must-try for any advanced skier visiting Montafon. This steep and demanding run is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. For an even greater challenge, the black run from Schwarzköpfle to Gargellen is a thrilling descent with a vertical drop of almost 900m.
Off-Piste Skiing in Montafon
When it comes to off-piste skiing, Montafon is a paradise. The Silvretta Montafon area is particularly popular, offering lots of off-piste routes, from gentle powder fields to steep couloirs. The off-piste area around Gargellen is also worth exploring, offering a 900m vertical descent through untouched powder. Remember, it’s crucial to hire a local guide or instructor when venturing off-piste to ensure your safety.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner embarking on your first skiing adventure or an advanced skier seeking thrilling black runs and off-piste challenges, Montafon is a resort that caters for all. From its diverse range of slopes to its stunning alpine setting, there are countless reasons why Montafon should be your next skiing destination.
