These 238 kilometres (149 miles) of groomed terrain have a reliable snow record and is linked by lifts to Samnaun in Switzerland (the red run from top of Palinkopf to Samnaun is a favourite, as it’s fun skiing two countries on one run, and this piste down to Samnaun is a lovely long and scenic run with a vertical drop of 1000 metres/feet).

But Ischgl is best known for its extremely lively après-ski and the Top of The Mountain concerts that herald the beginning and end of the long ski season. The shows have been running here for over 20 years, with stars such as Elton John, Bob Dylan, Robbie Williams, Mariah Carey, the Killers, Deep Purple, and Kylie Minogue gracing the outdoor stage no matter what the weather. A fun time for winter sport enthusiasts and their less sporty companions alike!

Gateway: Zurich (two hours 45 minutes).

Read more in our post 7 of Austria´s Best Winter Resorts.

Anna Pushkareva