Winter Holidays in Lower Austria

From hiking to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding to tobogganing, ice skating or ski touring - Lower Austria offers many opportunities to experience the cold season outdoors. Depending on the region, the focus is on gentle slopes, panoramic tours or sporting challenges.

Several layers of clothing that keep you warm but are still breathable are crucial, as well as sturdy, non-slip shoes. A winter hat, gloves, sunglasses or ski goggles and sun protection are always included.

For sporting activities, skis, snowboard, helmet, snowshoes or cross-country skiing equipment are necessary, depending on what is on offer. In many regions there are sports shops or hire stations that provide the appropriate equipment. Information on hire options can be found at the respective ski resorts, tourist offices or directly at the accommodation providers.

Some winter destinations in Lower Austria are well connected by train and bus: Along the Mariazell Railway you can reach the Gemeindealpe Mitterbach from St. Pölten. The "bus to the snow" takes you to the Hochkar or Semmering, for example, travelling from Vienna directly to the valley station via one or more intermediate stops. In the Vienna Alps, you can also take the Südbahn Railway and connecting buses to Semmering and Payerbach-Reichenau with a bus connection to the Rax Cable Car. For the Schneeberg, take the train to Puchberg am Schneeberg and change there to the Schneebergbahn (special trips in autumn, Advent and at Christmas). The Erlebnisalm Mönichkirchen can be reached via Aspang-Markt railway station plus shuttle bus.

For detailed planning, we recommend checking the ÖBB and VOR timetables and the travel information of the respective regions, as timetables and ski bus routes are adjusted seasonally.

Depending on the location and snow conditions, the main season usually lasts from December to the beginning of March. At higher altitudes, winter sometimes starts earlier and lasts longer. The off-season is also suitable for hikes, city trips or spa holidays. It is quieter then.

Ski resorts and winter regions publish current snow reports, open lifts and cross-country ski trail status. It is also worth taking a look at the weather forecast for the respective region. Further useful information on open ski areas, cross-country ski trails and snow depths can also be found at Bergfex.at