Spectacular panoramas, genuine alpine feel and skiing at the foot of Austria's highest mountain. Grossglockner Resort, based in Matrei and Kals, is one of Austria's most scenic ski areas. Here you're met with sweeping views of over 60 peaks rising above 3,000 metres, with the Grossglockner – the country's highest mountain – towering over the landscape.
This is perhaps the Alps' most underrated ski resort. An area where calm, authentic alpine style and high-quality skiing meet in a harmonious combination. Matrei suits those seeking wide pistes, reliable snow cover, modern infrastructure and an atmosphere that feels more genuine than exclusive.
It's a place where nature takes centre stage, where the views are just as much a part of the experience as the skiing itself.
The skiing – scenic, varied and safe
Grossglockner Resort offers skiing that combines breadth, calm and spectacular views. The terrain is perfect for carving, relaxed skiing and long runs winding through valleys and ridges.
Highlights in Matrei
- Large, wide pistes with natural flow
- Panoramic views of Austria's highest peaks
- Long runs with gentle rolling sections
- Stable snow quality thanks to altitude and northern exposure
- Modern gondola and smooth lifts from both Matrei and Kals
The skiing is mainly piste-based, but the area offers several fine off-piste sections alongside the pistes. Here you get variety without the system feeling difficult or stressful.
Who does Matrei suit?
Matrei is an area for skiers who appreciate harmony, nature and calm – and who want to avoid crowds and a heavily commercial alpine style.
Families
The slopes are clear and wide, with safe runs for children and beginners. It's easy to move around together and find pistes where everyone feels comfortable.
Couples and groups who want to enjoy nature
The majestic views and calm pistes give a skiing experience that's just as relaxing as it is active.
Experienced skiers seeking relaxed, enjoyable skiing
This isn't the resort for extreme off-piste or party life, but for stable quality and long carving runs with a view.
Atmosphere and surroundings
Matrei is a traditional alpine village where life still revolves around nature and local culture. There are no large party areas or exclusive shopping here – instead you get small restaurants, genuine hotels, quiet and closeness to the grandeur of the mountains.
For many, this is one of Matrei's biggest advantages: the feeling of arriving in a truly alpine landscape without shop windows and a fast pace.
Accommodation – charm, calm and comfort
Accommodation in Matrei consists of cosy hotels, guesthouses and apartments with views over the mountainsides. Prices are often lower than in more well-known Austrian resorts, making Matrei an affordable option for families and couples.
There's plenty of accommodation close to ski-in/ski-out thanks to the gondola's central location in the village.
Activities off the slopes
Even though the focus is on skiing, there are several winter activities around Matrei:
- cross-country skiing in Virgental and Kals
- winter hiking in the national park setting
- sleigh rides and family activities
- nature-close spa and relaxation at several hotels
Matrei is also located in Hohe Tauern National Park – one of Europe's largest national parks – creating unique opportunities for nature experiences.
Getting here
Matrei is most easily reached from Innsbruck or Salzburg. The roads are good and run through the scenic Osttirol valley. The area feels secluded but is still easily accessible by both car and transfer.
Who Matrei is for
Matrei suits those seeking spectacular views, calm, wide pistes and a more relaxed alpine experience than in the big, well-known resorts. It's a destination for families, couples and skiers who prioritise nature over nightlife.
Explore more ski guides
Matrei is part of our overview of Austria's best ski resorts.
The next destination in the guide is Mölltaler Gletscher – one of the country's most snow-reliable and high-alpine glaciers.
More information
For piste maps, accommodation and opening hours:
Matrei/Grossglockner Resort's official website
