Austrian ski regions prepare for new season amid local resort closures

The Austrian alpine region spanning Millstätter See, Bad Kleinkirchheim, and the Nockberge is preparing for the 2026/27 winter season. The regional offering includes five ski areas—Bad Kleinkirchheim, Turracher Höhe, Goldeck, Falkert, and Hochrindl—covering approximately 200 kilometers of slopes. Key seasonal highlights include the Winter Opening Weeks in Bad Kleinkirchheim starting December 3, 2026, and a new family-oriented outdoor area at Turracher Höhe.

In contrast, the Gaißau-Hintersee family ski area near Salzburg is facing permanent closure. Following three bankruptcies and failed attempts to modernize the facility, the owners have filed for permission to dismantle all lifts. The collapse of negotiations with a local landowner regarding parking and valley access has rendered the resort's central chairlift inoperable, making continued operations impossible.