Saalbach has a lot to offer most snowsports fans, but boarders are particularly spoilt with 13km of ‘boarders only’ pistes. The efficient lift system makes it easy for beginners to progress on to the quieter blue slopes of neighbouring Hinterglemm, and Intermediates will think they’ve died and gone to heaven with the well-signposted circuit taking in several resorts in the valley. This area may be a good one to venture onto a first ever black run as they tend to be easier than in most Austrian resorts.
It is advanced skiers who aren’t going to find Saalbach quite so perfect. Despite the dedicated mogul and carving zones there is a lack of challenging terrain and you may have to focus on mileage. The GS race course is open on non-race days though and despite the area not being well-known for off-piste there are a few wide open spaces towards Leogang that are worth exploring on a powder day.
