The Skiers' Guide to Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is a vibrant Austrian ski resort situated in the stunning Zillertal Valley in Tyrol. This charming alpine destination offers an impressive mix of terrain with access to over 500km of pistes when using the Zillertal Super Ski Pass. The resort sits at 630m with skiing up to 2500m, and while it doesn't offer ski-in/ski-out accommodation (you'll need to take gondolas up to the ski areas), the lift system is remarkably efficient.

Our Snomad community gives Mayrhofen an overall rating of 4.55/5, with particularly high scores for experts (4.72/5) and lift efficiency (4.69/5). It's also rated brilliantly for après-ski (4.59/5) and accommodation options (4.59/5), making it a well-rounded destination for all types of ski holiday.

Mayrhofen's ski area features 91 runs spread across 142km of pistes, with a good mix of 37 beginner runs, 44 intermediate runs, and 10 advanced runs. The lift system includes 10 gondolas/cable cars, 17 chairlifts, and 33 drag lifts, providing excellent access throughout the resort.

The ski terrain receives 4.54/5 for groomed runs, making it perfect for cruising intermediates. Advanced skiers can tackle the notorious Harikiri - one of Europe's steepest slopes, which several Snomad users specifically mentioned as a highlight. As Anthony, an expert snowboarder notes, there are "plenty of varied pistes and enough off-piste to keep you happy for a week."

The resort is particularly strong for snowboarders (4.52/5) with an excellent snow park that scores 4.14/5 for terrain parks. One Snomad community member, Meg, describes it as having both a "baby park and huge big park with pro line."

A major advantage is the ability to explore beyond Mayrhofen itself. The Zillertal Super Ski Pass includes free train and bus transport to other nearby ski areas including Hintertux Glacier, which many users recommend visiting for guaranteed snow conditions.

Mayrhofen scores impressively for eating out (4.46/5), with options both on the mountain and in town that won't break the bank. Georgia, an intermediate skier, found that "food on the resort wasn't overly expensive and good quality with a range of options for different dietary restrictions."

Many users point to the famous Hans the Butcher (opposite the Penkenbahn lift) as a must-visit for quick, delicious food. As John, an advanced skier, recommends: "If you want to grab a bite straight after coming down the hill, I would strongly recommend Gassers immediately opposite the Penken Bahn."

The resort offers everything from traditional Austrian fare to more international options. According to Ben, "the nearby resorts are much more enjoyable. Kaltenbach has very wide slopes, very good and friendly off-piste options." Several reviewers noted that mountain restaurants are reasonably priced compared to other Alpine destinations, particularly French resorts.

Mayrhofen is renowned for its lively après scene, reflected in its 4.59/5 rating for après-ski. The atmosphere ranges from on-mountain party spots to more relaxed town venues, catering to all preferences.

Martin, an advanced snowboarder, says "The après is great if that's your thing," while Clare, an advanced skier, describes the resort as having "fabulous hotels and food and fun après!" The town becomes especially lively during annual events like Snowbombing festival, which Jonathan warns might not be for everyone: "Just be aware that Mayrhofen hosts Snowbombing festival during the last week of the season so if thousands of ravers in fancy dress isn't your scene that may not be the week to visit!"

According to our users, Scotland Yard pub is mentioned as "an absolute must" by Rick, and there are plenty of live music venues for those who don't fancy clubbing. While some bars were noted as cash-only with potential extra fees for card payments, the drinks are generally reasonably priced.

Mayrhofen receives an excellent 4.48/5 rating for family friendliness, with many users highlighting its suitability for family ski holidays. Clare mentions returning with three generations of her family, showing the resort's multigenerational appeal.

The ski schools receive high praise with a 4.48/5 rating. Kirsty, a beginner skier, shared: "As a first time skier, I found this location perfect! Ski lift was right next to the Strass sports hotel which was perfect to get up and get going! Our ski school instructor was super helpful and we were off on runs by day 2!"

The resort scores 4.57/5 for beginners, with dedicated learning areas, particularly on the Ahorn mountain which is described as "a chill place to start if you have anyone who hasn't been in a while" by Phil. Family-friendly activities extend beyond skiing, with Imelda mentioning "public swimming pool and sauna that we went to and we enjoyed it."

Mayrhofen scores 4.59/5 for accommodation options, offering a wide range of places to stay for all budgets. The town is compact, with most lodging within walking distance of the main Penkenbahn lift, though not directly on the slopes.

Our users frequently mention the convenience of staying near the main lifts. Kody, a beginner skier, notes: "We stayed at the Sports Strass hotel which was right next to the ski lift so we were up on the mountain in minutes!" Lucy recommends the same hotel: "Stay at hotel Strass it is right next the gondola which is super convenient."

The accommodation options span from budget self-catering to luxury hotels with wellness facilities. Several reviewers mention high-quality hotel experiences with excellent service and cleanliness. Chloe, an intermediate skier, shares: "We stayed in a more expensive half board place the first time and a very cheap self-catering accommodation the second time - both were clean and comfortable."

Mayrhofen has made strides toward sustainability, particularly with its excellent public transport infrastructure. The Zillertal Super Ski Pass includes free access to buses and trains throughout the valley, significantly reducing car dependency. This integrated transport system allows visitors to explore multiple ski areas without additional carbon emissions.

The resort has invested in modern, energy-efficient lift systems, with many of the newer chairlifts featuring weather protection and heating systems that optimize energy use. Several mountain restaurants have also implemented waste reduction programs and local sourcing initiatives.

While Mayrhofen doesn't heavily promote specific environmental certifications, its emphasis on accessible public transport represents a significant commitment to reducing the resort's overall environmental impact.