Set at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser Mountain range, Ellmau has a small population and so much classic Austrian charm that you’re unlikely to get through the week without donning Lederhosen or a dirndl. The village is built of the sturdy wood and stone structures you only find in the mountains, made picture-perfect by the central parish church. It’s not all about the aesthetics - you’ll find some excellent eateries, affordable après ski, and good quality chalets, hotels and apartments of all shapes, sizes an...
The resort has an excellent lift system connecting to the neighbouring villages of Going and Scheffau. It really comes into its own for beginners: children’s lessons take place in ‘Kinderland’ (next to the ski school office on Alte Straße 3) which is kitted out with magic carpets, snow plough area and mini slaloms. You’ll find a range of short, gentle blues at the bottom of the mountain leading down into Ellmau and Going, well protected and separate from the rest of the ski area. #100b from Astberg is a nic...
The local après is low key but merry, with Pub 66 easily winning the gong for most popular drink spot (trust us, after a few sherries the karaoke here starts looking a lot more appealing). Living up to Austria’s reputation for stein-swinging après.
If you’re in the mood to warm up and relax, we love the Bettina - a gorgeous mountainside café in the perfect location for a family pit stop on the way back down the slopes - they do smashing hot chocolates and glühwein.
Amongst the thirty-something re...