Ski resorts
Mayrhofen: skiing in the Zillertal and where to stay
Lively après-ski, Austria’s steepest groomed run and a valley full of ski areas. This is Mayrhofen, the heart of the Zillertal, and the hotels that put you right in the middle of the atmosphere.
Mayrhofen lies deep in the Zillertal in Tyrol, where the valley divides and the mountains rise steeply on every side. The village is lively, with restaurants, bars and an atmosphere that brings many people back year after year. Here a ski holiday is as much a party as a mountain escape.
From Mayrhofen you can ski the Penken and the Ahorn, and with the Zillertal pass you have access to a long line of ski areas in the valley.
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The Penken and the Ahorn
The Penken is the largest ski area right by Mayrhofen, with runs for every level and several terrain parks. Across the valley lies the Ahorn, with wide, gentle runs that suit beginners and families well.
The Harakiri: for the brave
Mayrhofen is famous for the Harakiri, considered Austria’s steepest groomed run. It is a challenge even for experienced skiers, and many make the trip just to say they have done it.
The Zillertal: a valley full of ski areas
The Zillertal has many ski areas, and with a shared lift pass you can explore several of them in a week. That brings great variety, and new runs every day.
A day in Mayrhofen
The morning starts with the gondola up to the Penken, where the day can be spent on varied runs. After lunch the brave can try the Harakiri, while others relax in the sun.
When the lifts close, the après-ski begins. Music drifts from bars on the slopes and in the village, and the mood stays lively well into the evening.
Après-ski in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is known for its après-ski, with bars both on the slopes and in the village. The atmosphere is Tyrolean and informal, with music, dancing and plenty of laughter. If you prefer peace, there are also many cosy restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Mayrhofen?
The season usually runs from December to April. January often brings good conditions and fewer crowds, while March offers sunshine and longer days. Half term and Easter are busy, so book early.
Skiing with children in Mayrhofen
The Ahorn is a great area for children and beginners, with wide, gentle runs and ski schools. Mayrhofen also has a water park and activities off the slopes.
Food and evenings in Mayrhofen
Evenings in Mayrhofen bring Tyrolean classics such as Kaiserschmarrn, Kasspatzln and Wiener schnitzel. Restaurants cluster in the centre, and many hotels have their own spas and pools.
Getting to Mayrhofen
The nearest airports are Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg. The Zillertalbahn runs from Jenbach all the way to Mayrhofen, and buses and transfers also operate during the season.
The view from the Penken
From the top of the Penken you look out over the Zillertal, with villages far below and mountains reaching towards the sky. On a clear day you can follow the valley all the way to the Inn valley, and the light over the snowy peaks changes all day long.
Winter life in the Zillertal
Off the slopes the Zillertal offers sledging, winter walks and water parks. Many also take a ride on the Zillertalbahn through the valley, where old villages and churches give a glimpse of life in Tyrol.
Where to stay in Mayrhofen
Stay in the centre for après-ski and restaurants, or choose a hotel with a spa for quieter evenings. Here are two hotels we would happily choose.
ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat: spa and luxury
A luxury hotel with a spa and indoor pool, in Mayrhofen.
Book your stay: See rooms at ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat
Hotel Neue Post: central with a ski bus
A hotel with a free ski bus, in the centre of Mayrhofen.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Neue Post
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Kitzbühel.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Mayrhofen
Where should I stay in Mayrhofen?
ElisabethHotel has a spa and indoor pool, while Hotel Neue Post sits in the centre with a free ski bus.
What is the Harakiri?
The Harakiri is a run in Mayrhofen considered Austria’s steepest groomed piste.
Is Mayrhofen known for après-ski?
Yes, Mayrhofen is known for lively après-ski, with bars on the slopes and in the village.
How do you get to Mayrhofen?
Fly to Innsbruck, Munich or Salzburg. The Zillertalbahn runs from Jenbach to Mayrhofen.