We know from experience that skiers new to the sport feel right at home with us in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl.
The two main reasons are the compact resort where it is easy to meet up and our hotel offering advice and service for beginners and people returning to the sport after a while away.
Tip! Our hotel has its own ski storage room including lockers with boot-drying technology.
"We will be happy to organise everything you need for a great first ski holiday. All you need to do is check in – we will take care of the rest!" – Edelweiss & Gurgl ski team
The ski resort of Obergurgl-Hochgurgl has plenty to offer for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Families with children of different ages and abilities can split up for the morning before meeting for lunch at one of the traditional huts. After a hearty meal, those with energy left to burn can head back out onto the slopes while the others enjoy another drink on the terrace and soak up the sun.
Many adults often wonder whether it is possible to learn how to ski later in life without having spent time on snow as a child. The good news is: anyone of any age can learn how to ski and snowboard, and it is great fun!
We have put together some top tips for guests spending their first ski holiday here in Obergurgl.
Very! Choosing the right ski resort is essential for a fun and enjoyable experience. For beginners, we recommend a small resort where it is easy to meet up – and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is perfect in this regard.
On top of that, our location at the end of the Ötztal Valley ensures reliable snow cover and plenty of sunshine, which are both important when learning to ski. Smooth pistes make it easier to learn the right technique, while warm sunshine means you won't mind too much if you have to stand around and listen to your instructor.
Fundamentally, you don't have to be very fit to learn how to ski. However, we recommend doing a bit of sport before your holiday so that you can enjoy your time on the slopes when you are here. Running, cycling, etc. are good exercise options to get yourself ready. Strength, stamina and flexibility are all important. Whether in summer or winter, regular sport makes for a more enjoyable skiing experience.
Most people find skiing easier than snowboarding at the start. This is because skiing makes it possible to move your legs separately and the overall body position is more natural than for snowboarding. However, if you already have experience in surfing or skateboarding you may find snowboarding easier. If in doubt, try both! Scheiber Sport has all the equipment you need available to hire.
Ski lessons with a professional and experienced instructor are the best way to learn the right technique and make progress quickly. Qualified instructors will notice any mistakes you make and help you correct them so that you learn the basics in the right way. Good ski schools, like those here in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, work with small groups. And, let's be honest, where better to learn how to ski than in Tyrol?
If your skis are parallel you will slide straight down the slope. If you put the tips of your skis together, in the shape of a pizza slice, this will slow you down and help you control your speed.
Turns are made by shifting your body weight from the lower ski to the upper ski. It is important that you do not lean back too much! This happens automatically at the start, but it will cause you to accelerate and make it more difficult to stay in control.
The FIS rules have been developed by the Fédération Internationale de Ski (FIS), the international governing body for skiing. They are designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the slopes.
The meeting points and the office of the Obergurgl Ski School are right next to our hotel. The friendly and experienced instructors are on hand to teach beginners the basics and help advanced skiers to take their skills to the next level.
Treat yourself to something new and enjoy a skiing holiday with your friends and family!
