Kirchdorf’s name comes from its big, gothic church, which was originally built in 12th century and can be admired from all vantage points. This, alongside traditional architecture and the presence of the Großache River which winds its way through, makes Kirchdorf a real picture-postcard place to stay. The resort is renowned for its friendly hospitality and with reasonable prices compared to the famous neighbouring resorts of Kitzbühel and Söll, it’s clear to see why many love staying here.
Although this low-key resort has been somewhat outshone by Kitzbühel and Söll, it should definitely not be written off. Kirchdorf is a great touring base from which to explore, especially if you want to avoid the crowds that are notorious in the A-list resorts. Its laid back vibe makes it the perfect place for a family holiday particularly those who are still learning the ropes as the surrounding slopes are mostly blues.
The beauty of this resort is that it’s only 1 hour away from Salzburg airport and 1 hour 30 minutes from Innsbruck airport making it very accessible for anyone who likes to squeeze in an extra half days skiing on transfer day.
The village sits in between the resorts of St Johann and Waidring and its central location offers great access to the Schneewinkel ski area. If you buy a lift pass for 3 days or more it automatically allows you access to Schneewinkel‘s 170km of pistes over 10 resorts stretching from Fieberbrunn to Obendorf all connected via an efficient ski bus.
Those feeling really adventurous can buy the Kitzbüheler Alpen Allstarcard giving you access to an impressive 1000km of skiing including the world famous resort of Kitzbühel, this option is definitely worth considering if you’ll have your own wheels during your stay, as you’ll need a car to reach most ski areas.
Location: Austria, Alps
Established: 1910
Open: December - April
Downhill: 5km
View our detailed Kirchdorf snow forecast or snow report and see all live webcams, piste maps, road and travel maps and lift pass prices. For a picture of historic snow conditions see the snow depths month by month with our Kirchdorf snow history.
Nearest Airport & Transfer Time: | |
Salzburg | 70 km, 1 hour |
Innsbruck | 100km, 1 hour 30 minutes |
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Top Altitude: | 850m |
Bottom Altitude: | 640m |
Resort Altitude: | 640m |
Longest run: | 4km |
Slope Orientation: | N, W, NW, NE |
Vertical Drop: | 210m |
Skiable Vertical: | 210m |
Night Skiing: | No |
Glacier: | No |
Downhill Runs: | 5km |
Beginner slopes: | 60% |
Intermediate: | 40% |
Advanced slopes: | 0% |
Lift Pass Price: | €206 (adult 6 day) |
Nearby resorts: St Johann, Obendorf, Erpfendorf, Waidring and Fieberbrunn |
The area around the village is suited for families and beginners, who can practice on 3km of gentle piste, benefit from cheap lift pass prices and enjoy amazing views of the Kaiser massif – you’ll find a magic carpet right next to the village centre which serves the nursery slope and drag lifts and a state-of-the-art chair lift leading to gentle blue runs. More experienced snow lovers, however, will have to drive or catch the ski bus to find better runs further afield.
Intermediates should pop on the ski bus and head over to nearby St Johann which has more interesting and varied terrain. From the top of the ski lifts at Harschbichl there’s a good choice of 4-5km blues and reds which head back down to the village. The long Lacknerabfahrt run down from Jodlalm is especially popular as it winds through pretty forestry.
Whilst the Schneewinkel ski area isn’t a mecca for expert skiers there are still some challenging black runs if you don’t mind skiing easier terrain in-between. The Saureggabfahrt run in Fieberbrunn is one to tick off your list and the Penzing over in Obendorf is steep and full on moguls to keep you challenged.
Local legend has it that there’s some top class free-riding to be discovered in close by Fieberbrunn, book a local mountain guide to uncover this hidden powder.
If freestyling is your cup of tea head to the Snowpark in St Johann, appropriately named the “Funslope” it’s a playground for budding park rats with a 3m kicker, wave run and boxes and rails to try out.
Cross-country skiing is very popular in this region and with the area awarded the Tyrolean seal of quality for its excellence; there’s no better place to give it a go. You’ll find a massive 250km of groomed trails suited to novices through to experts.
The après here has a laid back atmosphere, that being said, for such a small resort there’s a surprising amount going on. Most of the hotels provide their own entertainment programmes which are usually open to non-guests too. These include local theatre, Tyrolean themed evenings and fondue parties. The majority of après is based within the major hotels such Mauth which is a popular spot for the locals and is characterised by typical Tyrolean hospitality. If a cosy drink by the open fire appeals, head to Castello bar for a quiet drink to unwind after a tough day on the slopes.
Non-guests can dine in most hotels if you fancy a change of scene at supper time. Hotel Seiwald is has a reputation for fantastic local cuisine which is usually served as a buffet starter, a choice of 3 main courses along with local desserts and a lovely cheeseboard.
You’ll find a wide range of non-skiing activities and things for children to do including tobogganing. For hint of luxury allow yourself to be pampered at the delightful Kaiserquell wellness centre which has fantastic facilities equipped with sauna, solarium and pools. Head to nearby St Johann for a spot of ice-skating in their panorama leisure centre. For a romantic gesture, treat a loved one to a horse sleigh ride, cosy up under a warm blanket and relish the stunning surroundings. Those who fancy taking a break from skiing can try snow-shoeing. In previous years the tourist office have provided free guided tours twice a week where you can crunch your way through 100km of snow trails. If the prospect of amazing sights gets you up in the morning give tandem paragliding a go or book a hot air balloon ride setting off from St Johann and float over picturesque Tyrolean countryside.
With 10 villages making up the Schneewinkel ski area, 170km of pistes and artificial snow making technology currently being upgraded, you’re likely to find some great skiing between January-March. Powder lovers should head over to nearby St Johann which has selection of red and blue pistes reaching 1700m.
Due to the relatively low altitude of the resort and ski area, it’s best to check forecasts if you’re planning some spring skiing – if there’s been brilliant snow throughout the season, you should have no problem finding good snow, especially on north facing pistes which usually have the best conditions. With lovely food and drink to enjoy on sunny terraces such as the popular Castello, get up for the first lift before enjoying a long leisurely lunch with a Gösser beer in hand and working on your goggle tan.
Experience a traditional Christmas in Kirchdorf with bucket-loads of Austrian Charm and spectacular cuisine with your nearest and dearest.
For peaceful, low-key celebrations coupled with superb hospitality we love New Year in Kirchdorf.
Families with first time skiers and little ones will love spending February half-term in Kirchdorf with beautiful terrain and quiet slopes to suit improvers.
Spend Easter in Kirchdorf and immerse yourself in the beautiful quaint village scenery under the sunny skies and mountain backdrop.
Hotel Alphof is situated right next to the nursery slope, great for families with any little ones or first time skiers. If you are looking to stay somewhere super convenient for skiing the large Schneewinkel ski area check out Hotel Tasma which is 1 minute away from the ski bus stop. Most of our hotels in Kirchdorf are all available on a half-board basis making meal times a breeze, with a large choice of food available including children’s options.
Families are very well catered for in this peaceful resort with excellent childcare facilities including the Kindergarten Kirchdorf in the centre of the village which has a jam packed itinerary of fun to keep your tots happy. Any children in ski school will benefit from small class sizes and quiet slopes making it a great place to learn. The local ski area is great for beginners, there’s a magic carpet serving the nursery slopes beside the village and a few chair and drag lifts which lead to the 5km of gentle blue runs ideal for perfecting technique.
The après scene is focused around the accommodation in Kirchdorf, with cosy lounges you can relax by the fire. The added advantage of on-site bars is that the adults don’t have to leave the comfort of the hotel to enjoy a few well-earned drinks. If the grown-ups fancy some down time head to the Kaiserquell wellness centre for a luxury spa session to soothe those aches and pains. Off the slopes the kids won’t be bored either, with ice-skating, tobogganing and curling on offer for some exciting evening entertainment.
Families with children not yet skiing can have a look for accommodation with childcare on site and babysitting services. Call our ski specialists for advice on best deals for family friendly accommodation in Kirchdorf.
For any groups looking for a laid-back holiday with a touch of luxury, Kirchdorf is the perfect resort. Our accommodation is great for groups wanting to make the most of the large Scheewinkel Ski area and you can enjoy lounging around in the evening in a relaxing intimate ambience. Hotels are a great option for groups especially large properties as it may be possible to book extra rooms at a later date if anyone’s keen to join the party. Hotel Seiwald has a fantastic location just 1 minute from the ski bus stop and Hotel Alphof is perfect for first time skiers as it’s right beside the nursery slope. The beauty of half-board holidays are that once you’ve paid for your holiday you don’t have to worry about putting money aside for shopping and eating out.
If you’re planning a holiday where the whole group can learn to ski together, this is a brilliant resort as the 5km local ski area is dedicated to beginners. Book a private instructor and you can all learn together. Whilst the local ski area is limited to beginners, the ski bus links the resort to 9 other villages which give more experienced skiers 170km of pistes to explore. Intermediates will enjoy the terrain in nearby St Johann, head up the Harschbichl lift and choose from a variety of 4-5km blues and reds that lead down to the village. Experts should check out the long Saureggabfahrt black run accessible from Fieberbrunn. Also here is rumoured to be some of the best off-piste in the area. Book a guide for the day and discover the powder with a local expert.
Even though different abilities might be skiing off in different directions, everyone can meet in Castello bar for a well-deserved warming glass of Glühwein and relax in the lounge area to rest those achy legs.
Non-skiers will also enjoy staying in this charming village. Relaxing afternoons can be spent watching the skiers on the slopes from a sun terrace, cappuccino in hand. There is also the chance to indulge in luxury treatment at the delightful Kaiserquell wellness centre which boasts fabulous facilities including a sauna, solarium and swimming pools. More adventurous group members may enjoy giving tandem paragliding a go; you’ll be gliding through the air attached to an experienced instructor.
Call us today with your preferences to secure the best deal for your group!