EXPERIENCE A WINTER FULL OF CONTRASTS IN SAALFELDEN LEOGANG

Whether on skis, snowboards or skates, with snowshoes or simply relaxing in a sauna overlooking the snow-covered mountains – in Saalfelden Leogang, framed by the Steinernes Meer plateau and the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range, winter can be experienced and enjoyed in all its facets. A wide range of activities ensures first-class entertainment, while rustic huts and star-rated hotels with exquisite wellness areas provide plenty of relaxation. Culinary delights await guests in the region’s seven Gault&Millau-awarded and two Guide MICHELIN-starred restaurants.

 

With the Ski ALPIN CARD in three top ski areas
To make the most of a winter holiday, ski fans should opt for the Ski ALPIN CARD. This ticket provides access to 408 kilometres of slopes and 121 lifts across three top ski areas: the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See, and the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Kaprun. Within the Skicircus alone, there are 140 kilometres of blue runs, 112 red and 18 black slopes, plus 60 cosy mountain huts, snow parks, freeride parks, floodlit slopes, speed and race tracks, funcross, snow trails, and snow tubing. A true highlight is the new SkiMovie run on the Asitz, where skiers are filmed from start to finish and receive a personal video of their descent. Simply activate the countdown with your ski pass. Since 2025, adrenaline lovers can also look forward to the new Funslope and Funcross courses. The Funslope on the Steinberg piste is about 400 metres long and nine metres wide, featuring fun elements like high-fives, waves and curves. The diverse Funcross course at the Schanteilift offers exciting waves, smooth banked turns and small jumps. In short: full variety with just one ticket. During the main season (20 December 2025 to 6 April 2026), the Ski ALPIN CARD costs €231 for three days (youths €173, children €115.50) and €425 for six days (youths €318.50, children €212.50). Infants born in 2020 or later travel free of charge when accompanied by an adult and receive a complimentary ski pass. A great tip for young skiers is the “Junior XPLORE CARD”: every Saturday during the winter season, young people (born 2007 or later) can enjoy the perfectly groomed slopes for just €15. 
Those seeking an extra challenge can take part in the ALPIN CARD Top 10 Trophy – ski on all ten selected lifts within three days to secure an instant prize and automatically enter the draw for top rewards. 
With the Home of Lässig App, skiers have everything in Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn right at their fingertips – full service and information on one digital platform. All four resorts and their mountain offers are integrated into a single app.
A special recommendation for families is the Hinterreit family ski area between Saalfelden and Maria Alm.
The area is perfect for families and beginners (with practice lift and wave run), yet on the same slope international ski stars train regularly – offering visitors a chance to watch the pros in action.

 

New: Ski ALPIN CARD joins the EPIC PASS network
Starting from the 2025/26 winter season, Epic Pass and Epic Adaptive Pass holders can enjoy five days of skiing in the ALPIN CARD regions. This is made possible through the ALPIN CARD ticket alliance joining the global EPIC PASS network. The international season pass provides access to more than 80 ski resorts worldwide – from North America to Japan and Australia. Conversely, holders of ALPIN CARD season or annual passes receive a 50% discount on lift tickets at 37 North American ski resorts.

 

“Kids on Ski” – Saalfelden Leogang gets children on skis
Leading ski resorts in Austria, Italy, Switzerland and Germany share a common goal: to inspire the skiers of tomorrow. The initiative aims to introduce absolute beginners aged 3 to 5 to the joy of skiing. Outside the main winter holiday periods, during eight selected weeks, children can take part in a complimentary ski course in Leogang. Accommodation in the parents’ room at partner hotels – including Hotel Krallerhof, Good Life Resort Riederalm, Biohotel Rupertus, Hotel DER LÖWE – lebe frei, Naturresort Puradies, Pension Tannenhof, Appartement Grundner, and Das Stoaberg – as well as ski passes and rental equipment, are provided free of charge. The programme takes place before Christmas, and again in January and March, promoting a love of skiing from an early age and supporting the long-term development of the sport’s next generation.

 

Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company – Pioneers in environmental protection
Since 2018, the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company has sourced all of its electricity from regional renewable energy sources, such as hydropower. Additional sustainability measures include the use of district heating from a biomass heating plant and heat recovery systems in the cable car stations. Moreover, the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company covers its entire fuel demand with HVO100 renewable fuel, completely eliminating fossil fuels. By using HVO – produced from 100 percent renewable raw materials – the company reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 96 percent.

 

Nordic Park: cross-country skiing, Fun & Snow Park and biathlon taster courses
Whether professional or beginner, young or old – the Nordic Park Saalfelden by lake Ritzensee is the home of cross-country skiing. The region’s 130-kilometre trail network offers something for everyone, from easy to challenging routes. Those interested in trying biathlon can book a taster course, available for both children and adults. A special highlight is an evening tour on the 1.4-kilometre loop around lake Ritzensee and on the floodlit trail in Leogang/Rosental (open until 9 p.m.). Families will find two especially popular attractions: In the Fun & Snow Park, children and adults alike can try their hand at cross-country skiing, while more experienced skiers take on banked turns, small jumps and slalom courses. A true family adventure on cross-country skis awaits with the Nordic quiz rally: starting from the Nordic Park, participants ski around lake Ritzensee and solve seven riddles at seven stations. The answers are entered on a card, and those who find the correct solution word receive a gift at the Saalfelden Tourist Office. Both the Fun & Snow Park course and the Nordic quiz rally are unique in all of Austria.
Event tip: From 16 to 18 January 2026, the Cross-Country Camp with Marcus Rothberger takes place in the Nordic Park. On 11 January and 15 February 2026, visitors can enjoy the Nordic Park Experience in the Nordic Park, and on 31 January 2026, the Nordic Skills Day promises another winter highlight.

 

Saalfelden Leogang – where talents grow
Saalfelden Leogang is one of only five top cross-country skiing destinations in Austria and has a special talent for nurturing new generations of athletes. Numerous top sportspeople went to school here and began their careers in the region – including Lisa Hauser (biathlon world champion), Simon Eder (World and Olympic medallist), Sara Marita Kramer (team world champion in ski jumping), Mario Seidl (Olympic and World Championship medallist in Nordic Combined) and Dominik Landertinger (biathlon world champion and multiple Olympic medallist) – to name just a few. The ski-jumping stadium in Uttenhofen (Saalfelden) has been extensively modernised and now serves as a state-of-the-art training facility for all age groups. The centrepiece of the renovation is the new K85 ski jump, which now meets international FIS standards, allowing both national and international competitions to be hosted here. At the Saalfelden Nordic Ski Middle School, students can combine their education with basic training in alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, ski jumping or biathlon. At the Ski Gymnasium Saalfelden, young athletes can choose from six disciplines in the areas of Alpine, Nordic and Freestyle skiing.
 

Fun beyond the slopes – from winter hiking to tobogganing
Whether on skates, toboggans or hiking boots – Saalfelden Leogang offers winter fun in every form.
When lake Ritzensee freezes over, it turns into a natural ice rink where skaters can glide freely – illuminated until 9 p.m. Idyllic snowy landscapes invite guests to join a moonlight ski tour on the Asitz or enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the winter scenery. Winter hikers are spoiled for choice: a short loop around lake Ritzensee offers stunning views of the Steinernes Meer plateau and the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range, while the 11.8-kilometre Haidrunde trail leads along the lake and through the nearby Kollingwald forest.
There, a forest swing invites walkers to pause, relax and enjoy the stillness of the woods. No winter holiday would be complete without a thrilling toboggan ride. Take the cable cars (or hike) up to the day- and-night toboggan run on the Asitz. The track stretches for an impressive four kilometres, and every Tuesday and Friday from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. it’s open for floodlit tobogganing under a starry sky. The smaller but charming Sinnlehenalm run, located near the centre of Leogang, delights visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range. At the Sinnlehenalm, guests can also enjoy a delicious selection of regional specialities.

 

“365 Days Active & Creative” Programme – many benefits with the Saalfelden Leogang Card
In the most contrasting region of the Alps, no two days are ever the same – and boredom is never on the agenda.
Guests in Saalfelden Leogang can choose, 365 days a year, whether they want to be active in the mountains or relax in the valley, join a guided hike or enjoy the rich cultural programme. In winter, the weekly programme includes snowshoeing, introductory ski touring, and small incense workshops. Important to know: with the Saalfelden Leogang Card, many of the region’s activities are discounted or even included throughout the year.
Every guest staying at a Saalfelden Leogang Card partner accommodation receives the card automatically and free of charge upon check-in. The card offers numerous advantages all year round. For example, guests can enjoy one complimentary uphill and downhill ride per stay on the Asitzbahn or Steinbergbahn cable cars, or visit local museums free of charge. It also includes use of all cross-country skiing trails in Saalfelden Leogang and participation in guided snowshoeing tours. Tip: The Saalfelden Leogang Card is now also integrated into the Home of Lässig App and can be conveniently stored in the digital wallet.

 

Art and music experiences in winter
In Saalfelden Leogang, visitors can also indulge their eyes and ears during winter. Beautiful music awaits even on a walk through the snowy landscape: simply head to one of the five TONspur Islands, located along the walking path and ski slopes between the mountain station and the Asitz summit. Here, visitors can relax on sheltered wooden loungers and listen to live recordings of the TONspur concerts – a summer concert series held on the Asitz at sunset. This special open-air attraction was even awarded the Austrian Arts Sponsorship Award MAECENAS in 2020. A visit to Museum Schloss Ritzen in Saalfelden is also highly recommended. It houses one of Austria’s most important nativity-scene collections, featuring many small masterpieces created by the renowned craftsman Xandi Schläffer from Saalfelden. His so-called “Pinzgau Nativity Villages” depict Bethlehem’s stable at the centre, with the Steinernes Meer plateau as a scenic backdrop. Another highlight is the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang, which tells the story of the region’s mining heritage and has had its own library since 2020. Both museums regularly host special exhibitions – and with the Saalfelden Leogang Card, entry to both is complimentary. At the Kunsthaus Nexus in Saalfelden, visitors can enjoy a vibrant year-round programme of concerts, exhibitions, cinema screenings, literary readings and cabaret performances.
 

Sustainability: Awards are just the beginning
Sustainability is not just a statement in Saalfelden Leogang – it’s a guiding principle that is lived across the entire region, both on and off the slopes and trails:

A few examples
•    Since 2006, the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company has sourced district heating from a nearby biomass heating plant – a joint energy initiative built together with neighbouring hotels.
•    Through heat recovery from the drive motors at the Asitz cable car mid-station, the mid-station itself, the snowcat workshop and the Stöcklalm restaurant are heated.
•    The snowmaking and cable car systems have been hydraulically and electrically optimised to increase efficiency. “With these measures, we’ve significantly reduced our energy consumption,” explains Kornel Grundner, Managing Director of the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company. “The Asitzbahn and Steinbergbahn cable cars now save around 151,000 kilowatt hours per year.”
•    The Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company covers its entire fuel demand with HVO100 renewable fuel, completely eliminating fossil fuels.

For its sustainability efforts, the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company has already received multiple awards:
the “Environmental Leaf Salzburg” in 2017, and in 2018, recognition from the Austrian Ministry for the Environment for its contribution to climate protection. Since 2019, it has also been the first ski resort partner of the Salzburg Climate and Energy Strategy 2050.

 

Saalfelden Leogang – an Austrian Ecolabel destination
Sustainability and environmental protection are deeply rooted in Saalfelden Leogang. The destination has been awarded the Austrian Ecolabel for Destinations and is a member of respACT (as the first regional tourism organisation) and of the Climate Alliance (as the first tourism association in the province of Salzburg). Many companies and businesses in Saalfelden Leogang have also been certified with the Austrian Ecolabel. This quality seal evaluates measures in areas such as mobility, waste management and resource efficiency. Local biomass heating plants, woodchip facilities and composting systems contribute to sustainable energy generation, while waste reduction is a top priority throughout the region.

 

A region of culinary excellence
Gourmets will find plenty of culinary delights in the Saalfelden Leogang holiday region – and not only because seven restaurants have been awarded a total of 19 Gault&Millau toques and two restaurants hold Guide MICHELIN stars. Throughout the region, great importance is placed on the quality and origin of ingredients. With the “ECHT.GSUND.GUAD.” initiative, launched in 2014, Saalfelden Leogang actively supports local producers and sustainable food culture. Regional products include award-winning meat and sausage specialities, cheese, bread, honey, eggs and schnapps, for which the region is well known. Even saffron is now cultivated locally. A wide range of Pinzgau delicacies can also be found in the many farm shops throughout the region.

 

High recognition for Saalfelden Leogang and its hotels
The most contrasting region of the Alps is also renowned for its outstanding hotels and wellness culture.
A wide range of spa and relaxation experiences helps guests bring body, mind and soul into harmony – effects that can still be felt long after their stay in Saalfelden Leogang. Many accommodations place strong emphasis on sustainability, using regional natural materials such as wood and stone. The Falstaff Hotel Guide 2025 highlights the region’s exceptional hospitality and its unique combination of quality, innovation and authenticity: The Naturhotel Forsthofgut achieved 100 points, ranking first in Salzburg and among the Top 10 hotels in Austria, setting new standards for modern luxury with its design, spa and sustainability concept. Also among the top five hotels in Salzburg is the Hotel Krallerhof, which not only earned a top ranking but also received the special award for “Best Spa Hotel in Austria.” The Priesteregg Premium Eco Resort is likewise among the Top 5 in SalzburgerLand, impressing with its sustainable philosophy, luxurious chalets and private atmosphere.
 

Well-being and relaxation in the region’s exclusive hotels
•    Hotel Krallerhof***** sets new standards for high-end luxury. Its spa, ATMOSPHERE by Krallerhof, is considered an architectural masterpiece and offers an exclusive wellness experience featuring a 50-metre infinity pool, natural swimming lake, elegant saunas, holistic retreats, and innovative biohacking programmes.
•    Naturhotel Forsthofgut***** combines natural design, a beautifully located spa, and a thoughtful sustainability concept – setting benchmarks for modern luxury. In May 2025, the new waldSPA Health opened, focusing on a holistic approach that blends diagnostics, tailored fitness programmes, mindful cuisine, and mental well-being. In June 2025, the hotel added its brand-new Berg Loft Suites.
•    Priesteregg Premium Eco Resort****S offers both luxury and time to unwind, with its exclusive chalets and the Priesteregg Bath. In 2024, seven mountain chalets were transformed into new lake lodges with direct access to a natural pond, which has been carefully expanded into a bathing lake. A new highlight is PRIESTEREGG Ballooning – a 90-minute private hot-air balloon flight offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
•    Hotel Gut Brandlhof****S offers elegant rooms, a 3,000 m² Vivid Spa, an event venue within a car showroom, and an indoor golf simulator. In 2026, a modern new building will open, taking the event experience at Brandlhof to the next level.
•    Hotel Puradies****S features lovingly designed chalets with breathtaking mountain views. Highlights include the newly built Heaven Spa and several new additions in the areas of sport and cuisine.
•    In the heart of Saalfelden, the new city hotel Das SAAL**** opened in early summer 2024, offering 75 double rooms and five suites.
•    Boutique Hotel Rivus****S pampers its guests with an elegant restaurant, a spacious wellness area, and stylish rooms that leave nothing to be desired.
•    The family-run slow-travel and Austrian Ecolabel hotel DER LÖWE****S delights guests with its beautiful outdoor pool and exclusive drinks at the Lions Lounge.
•    Biohotel Rupertus**** offers sustainable relaxation in its newly built spa area and serves organic culinary delights for all senses – to taste, feel and see.
•    Hotel Salzburgerhof****S invites guests to relax in its spectacular Sky Spa and enjoy a wide range of wellness and fitness programmes.
•    Good Life Resort Die Riederalm****S impresses with its award-winning restaurant “dahoam” (recognised by both Gault&Millau and the Guide MICHELIN) and a family-friendly wellness area.
•    The 700-year-old Kirchenwirt, a listed historic inn and hotel, is one of the oldest in SalzburgerLand (first mentioned in documents in 1326). Its restaurant is distinguished by Gault&Millau and the Guide MICHELIN.
•    Exceptional wellness experiences also await guests at the Holzhotel Forsthofalm****S, Senhoog Apartments, and Hotel Stockinggut****.
•    With its “Alpine Holistic” lifestyle concept, the Ritzenhof – Hotel and Spa am See****S offers ideal conditions for relaxation and regeneration, complemented by inspiring retreats such as ice bathing.
•    Guests at the Boutique and City Hotel Die Hindenburg**** experience a holiday “in the mountains – yet in the city.”
•    Hotel Bacher Asitzstub’n*** impresses with a heated panoramic infinity pool.
•    Hotel mama thresl**** combines urban design with Alpine charm, featuring stylish rooms, a vibrant bar for both taste and aesthetics, and unique culinary highlights.
 

Event Highlights – Winter 2025/26
(Dates subject to change)

Advent in Saalfelden Leogang | November & December 2025
The festive season in Saalfelden Leogang is celebrated with traditional customs and events, such as the unique Bachlschneid-Schleifen, Krampus parades, performances by the traditional Tresterer dance group, Christmas markets and much more.

TONspur meets SCHIspur  | 11 December 2025 | AsitzBräu Leogang
A special evening on the Asitz mountain in Leogang: an atmospheric performance of Ludwig Thoma’s “Holy Night”, accompanied by live music at the AsitzBräu.

Nordic Park Experience | 11 January & 15 February 2026 | lake Ritzensee Saalfelden
During the Nordic Park Experience, guests can enjoy good music on two winter dates, children take part in the Kids Winter Games, and there’s a lively atmosphere with barbecue and regional food for everyone. The event is organised as a certified Green Event Salzburg.

Asitz Winter Night | 26 & 30 December 2025, then every Tuesday until 31 March 2026 | AsitzBräu 
In the evening, the Asitzbahn cable car takes guests up to 1,750 metres on the Mountain of the Senses.
A light show, breathtaking performances and artistic acts transform the mountain into a spectacle of colour and sound. After the show, guests can enjoy a cosy evening at the mountain hut, surrounded by rustic charm, delicious food and live music in a relaxed atmosphere.

Skicircus Ski Test Days | 10 January – 1 February 2026 (Saturdays & Sundays) | Asitz Leogang
Guests once again have the opportunity to test the latest models from leading ski brands. On-site experts help each participant find and perfectly adjust the ideal pair of skis.

3 Days of Jazz | 23 – 25 January 2026
A total of nine concerts take place in special and surprising venues: five at the Kunsthaus Nexus Saalfelden, two at the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang, one in the Parish Church of Saalfelden, and one free open-air concert on the Asitz mountain. The festival is organised as a certified Green Event Salzburg.

Nordic Skills Day | 31 January 2026
The Nordic Skills Day offers cross-country and biathlon enthusiasts a truly unique experience. In 2026, the event celebrates its fifth anniversary. Participants spend a full day training side by side with Austrian biathlon legends such as Julian Eberhard, Christoph Sumann and Daniel Mesotitsch – all multiple World Championship and Olympic medallists. In small groups, participants complete both technique and shooting sessions, test new equipment, and enjoy a varied supporting programme. A relay competition provides a festive finale to this exceptional event.

White Pearl Mountain Days presented by Visa | 20 – 29 March 2026 | Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
From 20 to 29 March 2026, the Skicircus celebrates spring skiing in true style: sunshine, snow, music and fine cuisine – the perfect combination for unforgettable White Pearl Mountain Days.