Of all the styles of skiing and snowboarding — fast-paced slaloming, freestyle launches off jumps, or casually carving down groomed routes — there’s something elevated, ethereal, and wonderful about fresh powder. It transforms winter sports into something dreamlike, feeling almost weightless as you whisper through a layer of fluff as soft as a cloud. Whether you’re carving wide bowls at under-the-radar Colorado resorts, exploring the steep terrain in Italy’s “Queen of the Dolomites,” or gliding across Switzerland’s high-alpine resorts, outdoor enthusiasts are blessed with many stellar snowy regions around the world, each offering its own mix of scenery, snow quality, and endless ways to chase that perfect, weightless turn.
But when it comes to powder, one resort stands above the rest. A study from Inghams Ski — working with meteorologist Jim N.R. Dale of the British Weather Services — examined what creates perfect powder snow and where to find. After analyzing conditions across more than 120 resorts in 13 countries, they found Westendorf in Austria to have the best powder skiing.
As a whole, the Austrian Alps deliver mountain magic with a charm all their own. The country blends consistent snowfall with a network of resorts, making it easy for travelers to sample a few spots in one trip. Classic centuries-old villages anchor the experience, offering warm, snow-covered lodges, family-run guesthouses, and relaxing spas with grand vistas of jagged peaks, wide valleys, and sunny ridgelines. Whether you’re planning a family ski holiday or hoping to enjoy the rhythm of alpine life, a visit to the slopes of Westendorf offers a mix of tradition, memorable winter terrain, and arguably the best powder on the planet.
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Riding in Westendorf: the best powder resort
Austrian mountains completely covered in snow with a few skeirs – kasakphoto/Shutterstock
Westendorf is ideal for skiers or snowboarders who chase soft powder and a laid-back mountain atmosphere. Situated within the enormous SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental area — one of the biggest ski regions in the world — the village offers seamless access to lifts, gondolas, and a wide range of slopes and snow conditions from December through April (And a summer hike in the Austrian Alps isn’t a bad trip either).
Along with the powder, the variety and depth of skiing for all abilities elevate the area. Visitors can enjoy wide carving lanes covered in fresh snow on the Talkaser, while advanced riders test themselves on the steep descent of the black runs, such as No. 112. Freestyle-leaning riders check out the Boarders Playground at the Gampenkogel lift — one of the region’s largest fun parks, with multiple lines for all levels. Beginners have options, too, including two practice areas in the valley and ski schools that help newcomers ease into the rhythm of the mountains. The KiWest cable car links directly to Kirchberg and the renowned KitzSki area, forming part of the world’s longest connected ski circuit.
Of course, there’s more outdoor action than just downhill skiing. Cross-country fans can glide along miles of groomed trails, and winter hikers can ride the lifts, follow quiet paths, and stop at one of the many lodges or panoramic mountain-top restaurants like Choralpe for lunch with a sweeping view. Toboggan runs give a nostalgic thrill for families and groups, while winter events — from the Saint Nicholas Market to concerts — add a lively vibe to the peaceful Alpine setting.
Making the most of a trip to the Austrian Alps
A couple relaxing in a hot tub with snowy mountains behind them – ronstik/Shutterstock
To reach this Alpine getaway, fly into Innsbruck — one of the most breathtaking airports to land at — about 50 miles (around an hour’s drive) from Westendorf. You may also use Salzburg Airport, roughly 60 miles away. Both airports offer transfers via train or taxi. Since the village is in the middle of the sprawling SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental area, there are plenty of accommodation options of varying budgets, from hotels and apartment rentals to holiday homes tucked amongst the trees. If you’re traveling that far, yes, the powder skiing is worth it, but take some time to enjoy the local area beyond the slopes.
Wander through the charming village and you’ll find classic Alpine architecture and the quaint Pfarrkirche Westendorf, a historic church dedicated to Saint Nicholas. After a fun winter day outside — legs exhausted with cheeks red and windburnt — the next best move is to tuck into a local dining establishment. There’s a variety of options that range from steak and international flavors at FeinSinn, to rustic warmth at the Michelin-recommended Gasthaus Steinberg, or the highly-rated Glennie’s, where you can savor hearty regional dishes in a cozy parlor.
For the ultimate Alps experience, book time at the Schermer Wellness Hotel. Spend the day soaring through cloud-like powder, enjoy a hearty Central-European meal, and then relax in saunas, steam baths, and an indoor-outdoor pool set against mountain views. Westendorf is equal parts serenity and Alpine spirit — a village where you can unwind by the fire or watch the sun set from a mountain-top restaurant, never far from world-class skiing and excellent powder snow.
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Read the original article on Islands.