Styrian Piste Quality Seal Awarded To Eleven Ski Resorts
Known as the "Oscar of ski resorts," the Styrian Piste Quality Seal is a flagship award for winter sports in Styria. Ski resorts awarded this seal meet the highest safety and quality standards. This year, eleven ski resorts have received the coveted seal.
Preparations for the winter season are in full swing in the ski resorts – and quality plays a central role. The Styrian slope quality seal guarantees top marks in terms of safety, comfort, and the highest quality standards. "The seal stands for safe and optimally groomed slopes, modern infrastructure, and comprehensive safety measures. This award is a valuable asset for the tourism industry of the respective region, as it strengthens the confidence of guests who prioritize safety and top quality when choosing their ski resort," emphasizes Fabrice Girardoni, Chairman of the Cable Car Division of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Steiermark). Josef Herk, President of the WKO Steiermark, who presented the award together with Governor Mario Kunsaek and Thomas Weihs, Chairman of the Slope Quality Seal Commission, echoes this sentiment. "Our ski resorts not only inspire guests to enjoy winter sports, they are also an indispensable economic driver and employer in Styria," says Herk.
Governor Mario Kunasek also spoke of a "visible sign of the commitment and passion with which our ski resorts offer their guests the best conditions. Those who bear the piste quality seal prove that safety, sustainability, and service are not just buzzwords, but a lived reality." Piste quality and safety are playing an increasingly important role for winter sports enthusiasts, said commission chairman Thomas Weihs: "Through the participation of smaller and medium-sized ski resorts, high standards and excellent piste quality have also been achieved there."
Excellent: These are the eleven award winners
Planai & Hochwurzen: Where skiing becomes an experience
The Planai and Hochwurzen ski mountains are among Styria's most renowned winter sports destinations and are part of the legendary Schladming 4-mountain ski area. Here, winter sports enthusiasts will find an impressive variety of slopes for all skill levels, complemented by highlights such as the Hopsi Winter Children's Land for the youngest skiers, funslopes, funcross courses, and speed runs and racecourses for more athletic skiers. On the Hochwurzen, a toboggan run offers fun both day and night. The new 8-seater "Mitterhausalm I" chairlift and the 10-person "Senderbahn" gondola between Hauser Kaibling and Planai significantly shorten travel times and reduce waiting times. Heated seats, panoramic views, and modern technology guarantee maximum comfort. Investments are also being made in employee satisfaction with the new "Team Lodge Planai," which offers 24 modern studio apartments.
Hauser Kaibling: At the summit of the 4-mountain ski area Schladming
Hauser Kaibling is the ideal starting point for the Schladming 4-Mountain Ski Area and, at 2,015 meters, its highest point. With 123 kilometers of non-stop slopes, over 50 lifts, modern cable cars, cozy mountain huts, and fun slopes for all ages, the ski area is one of Austria's top ski resorts and offers everything a winter sports enthusiast could wish for. New this winter is the "4-Mountain Ski Super Connection." Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from two state-of-the-art lifts. The 10-person "Senderbahn Hauser Kaibling" gondola and the 8-person "Mitterhausalm I" chairlift ensure fast and comfortable access between Hauser Kaibling and Planai. With the "Kaiblinggrat" 8-person chairlift, built last year – the most powerful chairlift in Styria – waiting times at Hauser Kaibling are a thing of the past. In addition to state-of-the-art facilities, Hauser Kaibling boasts guaranteed parking directly at the valley station, wide slopes, two valley runs, and Wolli's Kids Park, a 24,000-square-meter beginner area at the valley station with three magic carpets – two of which are free for everyone – and numerous play features. Add to that over 100 years of mountain hut tradition and culinary delights in full-service huts. Another highlight is the new "Wolli's Forest Trail" and the XXL Fun Slope, one of the longest in Austria, guaranteeing plenty of fun on the slopes. Looking to the future, Hauser Kaibling is committed to resource-efficient investments in snowmaking and slope infrastructure to ensure winter sports remain at the highest level for years to come.
Turracher Höhe: Good mood served by the piste butler
At over 1,800 meters above sea level, Turracher Höhe combines Styrian and Carinthian joie de vivre into a unique skiing experience. 43 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes – from gentle inclines to challenging runs – offer something for every skill level. The ski area is compact, easy to navigate, and scores highly in terms of quality: seven cable cars, eight lifts, and two conveyor belts ensure comfortable ascents, while modern snowmaking systems guarantee reliable snow conditions. New this year is the lovingly designed children's area, "Nocky's Snow Time," where the youngest skiers can playfully practice their first turns. The central building has also been expanded – with 200 ski lockers and 20 staff apartments, ensuring even greater service quality. Legendary is the "Piste Butler," who roams the Turracher Höhe and pampers winter sports enthusiasts with sparkling wine, little surprises, and even ice cream in the spring. In addition, there's the diverse Fun Mountain with its fun park, fun cross, fun slope, and kids' slope – a paradise for action-packed skiers. Even off the slopes, there's never a dull moment: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and the butler service make winter here a truly comprehensive experience. Looking to the future, Turracher Höhe is committed to expanding its snowmaking facilities and modernizing its lift infrastructure – ensuring that the skiing experience remains at its highest level.
Schwabenberg Arena Turnau: Where rustic charm is part of winter sports
At the foot of the majestic Hochschwab mountain lies the Schwabenbergarena Turnau – a small but excellent ski resort. For over 50 years, winter sports enthusiasts have enjoyed skiing here without the hustle and bustle. Located at an altitude of 800 to 1,250 meters, the resort boasts wide slopes, short waiting times, and ample parking directly at the valley station. Ten kilometers of varied slopes, four drag lifts, and a magnificent view of Upper Styria make Turnau a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic winter experience. From the homologated FIS European Cup slope for ambitious skiers to the lovingly designed children's area for little ones, the resort offers a diverse yet family-friendly atmosphere. Those who still have energy after a day on the slopes can enjoy the magical ambiance of evening skiing under the stars or relax at the "Gamserl" restaurant for a cozy end to their day. A modern, environmentally friendly snowmaking system ensures snow reliability from December to March, and thanks to the on-site ski rental, nothing stands in the way of a spontaneous day of skiing.
Kreischberg: 50 years of skiing history are being written here
"The most beautiful slopes far and wide" is more than just a slogan at Kreischberg. For half a century, the ski resort has stood for exceptional skiing, innovation, and a passion for winter sports. What began in 1975 with two chairlifts and a large dose of courage has developed into one of the largest and most modern ski resorts in Styria. Today, Kreischberg delights visitors with wonderfully wide slopes, state-of-the-art cable car technology, and a perfectly coordinated snowmaking system – a place where skiing and snowboarding are simply a joy. For its 50th anniversary, the adventure mountain is more dynamic than ever: With the future-oriented "Rosenkranz NEU" project, a new 8-seater chairlift will be built by the 2026/27 winter season, further enhancing comfort for guests.
Tauplitz: A winter wonderland above the tree line
High above the Enns Valley lies one of Austria's most traditional ski resorts: Winter sports history has been written here for over 120 years. As early as 1905, the first pioneers ventured down the Lawinenstein slope, in 1935 Austria's first licensed ski lift began operating, and in 1953, the world's longest single-seat chairlift at the time followed. Today, Tauplitz presents itself as a modern, diverse ski resort that has never forgotten its roots. Sporty skiers, freeriders, families, and those seeking relaxation will find ideal conditions here: wide slopes, fantastic powder runs, and a cozy, car-free alpine village that invites you to unwind. The sunny location above the tree line ensures brilliant skiing days and sweeping panoramic views across the Styrian Salzkammergut region. Thanks to ongoing investments, Tauplitz remains at the cutting edge of technology: upgrades to the snowmaking system, new turnstiles at the Tauplitz I and II lifts, and the redesign of the Bergho Tauplitzalm hotel ensure greater comfort and quality. The "Brunntröge" slope project, which will represent an attractive expansion of the ski area, is currently in the planning stages.
Hauereck: Skiing bliss in true Styrian style
Small, charming, and family-friendly, the Hauereck ski area in Upper Styria offers a compact yet diverse experience with approximately 5 kilometers of slopes. The "Hauereck Run" is wide, easy to navigate, and ideal for families with young children and beginners. The "Hahngraben Run" starts off gently for families but then becomes fast and is even homologated for races. The "Steinwand Run" is perfect for those who enjoy a faster pace. This season kicks off with numerous promotions that make skiing particularly affordable for families. At Hauereck, the focus is on the next generation: the magic carpet for little skiers is free, children up to 6 years old ride the 4-person chairlift for free, and the Family Day Plus ticket offers discounts not only on ski passes but also on food. Starting January 7th, seniors benefit from discounts on weekdays, and on the big Family Ski Day on December 14th, 2026, children up to 15 years old ski for free!
Reiteralm: Sporty skiing fun and family-friendly slopes
The Reiteralm, at the western entrance to the Schladming 4-mountain ski area, combines top-level sporting performance with family-friendly skiing enjoyment. With 32 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes and 13 modern lifts, both World Cup teams and recreational skiers will find ideal conditions on the extra-wide runs. The Reiteralm is the only ski resort in the entire European Alps to have been awarded the International Piste Quality Seal in Gold for the sixth time. A special offer ensures even more skiing pleasure: As the only ski resort in Styria, the Reiteralm offers an early bird start to the ski day every Saturday and Sunday from 7:45 a.m. throughout the entire season. Extensive investments have been made at both the Reiteralm and the Fageralm: Modernized lift and slope infrastructure, as well as expanded snowmaking facilities, ensure greater comfort and maximum snow reliability. The Reiteralm is thus further enhancing its profile as a sporting flagship of the region, offering breathtaking views of the Dachstein massif. The second ski mountain, Fageralm, will further strengthen its position as a children's and family ski area. A particular highlight is the construction of the new 8-person gondola lift, the "Fageralmbahn," realized as the longest upcycling project of its kind.
Mariazeller Bürgeralpe: Express to the mountain
Above the pilgrimage town of Mariazell, the Bürgeralpe rises to an altitude of 1,267 meters, combining tradition with a genuine skiing experience. With approximately 11.5 km of perfectly groomed slopes – from gentle practice runs to more challenging descents – and five modern lifts, it's the ideal family-friendly entry point to snowy winter fun. The contemporary "Bürgeralpe-Express" comfortably transports guests from the valley station in the center of Mariazell up to the ski area. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Mariazell Advent, the area will be illuminated from November 20, 2025, to January 6, 2026, by the "Bürgeralpe Light Magic" – a spectacular light and sound installation that transforms the Holzknechtland (Woodcutter's Land) and the mountain lake into a magical winter wonderland. What makes the Bürgeralpe so special is its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and offers such as "Ski for Free" with an overnight stay and a 2.5-kilometer toboggan run that leads from the summit through the night to the valley.
Grebenzen: Comfort and nature combined
Nestled in the heart of the Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen Nature Park lies a ski resort that impresses with its family-friendly atmosphere and stunning mountain scenery. 27 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes offer something for everyone, from beginners and families to leisurely skiers. From gentle slopes to more challenging runs, there's something for everyone – always with breathtaking panoramic views of the Seetal Alps, the Niedere Tauern, the Dachstein, and the Karawanken mountains. Since the construction of the modern 10-person gondola, winter sports enthusiasts can comfortably and enjoy panoramic views as they ascend to an altitude of 1,654 meters. The brand-new Maria Schönanger slope, with its approximately 2.5 kilometers of length, guarantees even more skiing fun. A continuously updated snowmaking system ensures reliable snow conditions, allowing the resort to operate daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November 29, 2025, to March 15, 2026. Grebenzen is particularly family-friendly when it comes to pricing: children up to 5 years old ski for free, and youth rates are valid up to age 28 – a strong signal for young winter sports enthusiasts. A day of skiing at Grebenzen means: relaxed skiing amidst unspoiled nature, fair prices, genuine hospitality – and the feeling of having arrived.
Mönichwald: Skiing fun on the sunny side of life
Whether you're a beginner or a relaxed winter sports enthusiast, a carefree and welcoming day of skiing awaits you at Hochwechsel above Mönichwald. This small but charming ski area, situated at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,300 meters, boasts approximately 5 kilometers of slopes, three drag lifts, a practice lift, and a magic carpet – perfect for families and beginners who prefer to avoid long queues and a hectic atmosphere. The slopes are fully equipped with snowmaking facilities, ensuring reliable skiing even in winters with less natural snowfall. Night skiing under floodlights is available on Fridays (and during school holidays) – creating a special atmosphere on the sunny side of the mountain! For children, there's a ski school, ski rental, a dedicated children's area, and lively childcare – making their first turns on the slopes an unforgettable experience. Adults will find plenty of space to carve, experiment, or enjoy a cozy après-ski break at the rustic "Ochsenloch" hut. Anyone looking for a quiet winter day in a family atmosphere, without crowded slopes and with fair conditions, will find exactly what they're looking for at the Hochwechsellifte ski area in Mönichwald.
Strict criteria for awarding the seal
The Styrian piste quality seal is an award for ski resorts in Styria that meet high safety and quality standards. It was established in 1998 and currently recognizes 30 ski resorts. The seal is awarded by an expert commission of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO Steiermark), focusing on safety, piste maintenance, and modern infrastructure.
For a ski resort to receive the quality seal, it must undergo rigorous testing. This includes regular slope maintenance, safety measures such as ski patrol and first-aid facilities, as well as modern snowmaking technology. The marking and signage of the slopes are also carefully inspected. A key objective is to support smaller ski resorts in particular, enabling them to continue providing safe conditions for children and beginners.
