St Anton is not just a ski resort. It is home to many activities for non skiers too. The luxury ski resort of St Anton forms part of the Arlberg ski area. Founded in the 14th century as shelter for travellers and traders, the Arlberg region is one of the oldest mountain resorts in the world. It is now home to the largest interlinked ski areas in Austria, and well known as the “cradle for alpine skiing.”
But whether you just fancy a day off of the slopes or you are looking for activities for the non-skier, there are an abundance to choose from.
Without further ado, I give you some of the incredible activities St Anton has to offer for non skiers…
Horse Sleigh Riding in St Anton
There is nothing more enchanting that a traditional horse drawn sleigh ride around the village. A truly magical way to relax and enjoy the luxury resort of St Anton. Take in the snowy surroundings, whilst being wrapped up in fur blankets and accompanied by the clanging bells of the horses. For St Anton non skiers, it’s the perfect way to explore the hidden gems in the stunning Arlberg winter wonderland.
The Arl.Rock Centre
The Arl.Rock sports centre offers an abundance of activities both indoors and outdoors, perfect for St Anton non skiers. Try your hand at rock climbing and bouldering, with 65 indoor routes and 30 challenging outdoor routes offering something to suit every ability.
Alternatively, if racket sports are more your forte, there are indoor tennis courts and a squash court available to book in 60 minute intervals. Last but not least, the bowling alley offers 4 lanes, making it a great environment for families and friends. For activities in St Anton, non skiers and skiers will love some time out at the Arl.Rock.
The centre is open from 1pm – 10pm daily. For more information, check out the Arl.Rock website. Equipment is available to hire if needed.
St Anton Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
St Anton am Alrberg offers kilometre after kilometre of scenic walks. Whether you are looking for an easy 2.5km walk around St Anton to see the area from various perspectives, or want to spend the whole day exploring the Stanzertaler 18km loop, there is something for everyone.
It’s not just the pistes and cross country trails that are well maintained in the area. The paths are cleared and marked, leading the way out into the snow-covered mountains, giving any hiking enthusiast a pleasurable experience.
Here’s a list of some of the Winter Walking trails in and around St Anton am Arlberg.
Our advice would to speak to the tourist office in St Anton on arrival who can give you the best tips, maps and path descriptions to suit the conditions at the time! You can also join snowshoeing tours if you would prefer.
The Arlberg Wellness Centre – Swimming/ Fitness/ Sauna
Right in the heart of St Anton is a modern wellness centre, perfect for a day of relaxation and pampering. Take a dip in one of the in or outdoor pools, relax in the multi level sauna and wellness zone or book yourself a massage. If you are on a luxury family ski holiday, the centre also has a great paddling pool for toddlers.
For further information visit the Arlberg Wellness centre website.
Tobogganing in St Anton
You can’t miss the famous toboggan run in St Anton, offering 4 km’s of exhilarating sliding fun! The run begins on the Gampen and has a vertical elevation of 1,670 feet (500m). You’ll wind your way through the forest past the “Rodelhutte” hut to the “Rodelstall” in Nasserein to finish.
It is open daily 12pm to 4.30pm daily as well as Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The lift is free with a valid ski piass. For the non-skier, it is €9 EUR per ride for a child and €18 EUR per ride for an adult.
You can rent a toboggan at the Nassereinbahn hub. It’s normally €9 EUR for the rental and a €20 EUR deposit which will be returned to you at the and of the run.
For further information head to the tourist office on arrival, or visit their website.
Take in the Stunning Views from Valluga
You can purchase a non-skiers lift pass, which will give you access to the main lifts and some truly spectacular views. The summit of Valluga Mountain sits at an incredible 2,811 metres and you’ll find the most stunning views in the whole of Tyrol.
To get to the top of Valluga Mountain you’ll first take the Galzigbahn gondola, followed by the Vallugabahn gondola sections I and II. At the top on a clear day, you can see the mountain peaks of 5 countries, from the surrounding mountains in Austria, to Italy in the South, Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west and Germany to the north.
You can enjoy a spot of lunch or apres ski in the Valluga restaurant, the highest of the Arlberg mountain restaurants, sitting at 2,650m.
For more information on mountain restaurants visit the Arlberger Bergbahnen website.
Ice Skating/ Curling
The Ice skating rink and curling in St Anton am Arlberg is generally open from December through to mid-March. You don’t have to be athletic to curl, just willing to give it a try! The curling stones have handles which you’ll use to slide/throw, (depending on your chosen technique) aiming for it to stop as close to the centre of the square drawn on the ice. It is played between two teams and a perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends.
For opening times and prices, either head to the tourist office in resort or check online.
So don’t worry, if you enjoy the scenery and atmosphere of mountain ski resorts but don’t fancy skiing, St Anton really is a fantastic resort to spend time in. You’ll find an abundance of great shops, boutiques and individually run gift shops offering a host of traditional Austrian treats. On top of that, there are a variety of cafes and bars to relax and/or après in the resort centre.
We have many luxury ski chalets in St Anton and the surrounding areas. If you haven’t booked your next ski holiday in St Anton am Alberg, send an email or giving us a call on +44 (0) 1202 203650 and we will be happy to help!
