Skiing with children in Niederau and Ski Juwel

Children's ski schools in Niederau and Auffach

Several accredited ski schools operate in the Wildschönau, including in Niederau and Auffach. They offer group lessons for children at different levels, from complete beginners to children who already ski down on their own. Some schools run a kids' club for the youngest skiers from around 4 years old, while lessons for more advanced children often begin a little later, at around 5 or 6. In Auffach, at the middle station of the Schatzberg cable car, you will find the children's area Zwergenland, where children from about 4 years old learn to ski with the help of conveyor belts and a carousel, among other things. Meeting points, lesson times and age limits differ by school and season, so ask in advance and book early for busy weeks such as Christmas and carnival.

Practice areas and beginner slopes

For the very first metres, the ski area has dedicated children's and practice areas with magic carpets and gentle slopes, such as Zwergenland in Auffach. This lets children learn to brake and turn without standing on a busy piste. In Niederau itself, the small practice lift at Hartlfeld is, according to recent information, no longer in use. Do not count on it, and ask the ski school or your accommodation where beginner lessons currently take place. Once children have the basics, there are quiet blue runs on the Markbachjoch and near the Lanerköpfl where they can practise.

Helmets and safety

As far as is known, Tirol has no legal helmet requirement for children on the slopes, unlike most other Austrian provinces. Even so, a ski helmet is strongly recommended for children, and many ski schools expect them to wear one during lessons. Always bring a well-fitting helmet or rent one. Check that the helmet is not too old and sits properly: it should not slide around, and the chin strap should be snug but comfortable. A back protector and gloves with wrist guards are useful for beginners. Rules can change, so ask the ski school or the tourist office about the current situation.

From what age can children ski?

Many children get to know snow and skis at around 3 to 4 years old, but at most schools group lessons only begin at about 4. More important than age is whether a child is physically and emotionally ready for a few hours outdoors in the cold, can listen well and does not tire or become frightened easily. Start with short sessions of an hour or two and let the child above all enjoy it. Younger children can simply play in the snow first or try a private lesson. Ask the ski school about the minimum age for the course you want, as it differs from provider to provider.

Lift passes for children

Ski Juwel generally offers reduced rates for children and young people, and in many Austrian ski areas the very youngest children ski free when accompanied by a paying adult. Age limits and conditions, such as bringing proof of identity, vary from season to season. Therefore ask for the current rules before you arrive, through the lift operator or your accommodation. For beginners who only use the practice areas, a single ticket for a few rides or a shorter period may be enough. Also check whether the lesson requires a lift pass: in many cases one is needed to use the lifts, and sometimes it is included in the course.

Mountain huts with children

A hut stop is part of skiing and makes the day more fun for children. The ski area has several mountain huts and restaurants along the slopes, where children can enjoy pancakes, Kaiserschmarrn, soup or pasta, for example. Many huts have children's dishes and a terrace with views. Do not plan lunch too late: around 11.30 the huts are still quiet and children are usually hungry by then. In busy weeks it is wise to reserve at popular places. Bring dry gloves and a spare hat so that your child is warm and dry when heading back to the slopes after the break.

Sledging as an alternative

Not every child feels like skiing every day. The Wildschönau has natural toboggan runs, for example from the Lanerköpfl down to Niederau and from the middle station of the Schatzberg cable car down to Auffach. You can often take a lift up and then slide down. Sledges are rented in the valley, usually at the valley stations. Some runs have a hut along the way for a stop. In good weather with enough snow, sledging makes a relaxed afternoon for the whole family, including parents who do not ski themselves. Children should preferably wear a helmet, and opening times and run conditions vary from day to day, so ask in advance.

Bad weather and a day off the slopes

In fog, strong wind or rain, a day off the skis is often nicer. You can swim in an indoor pool or spa in the region, visit a museum or an indoor play centre, or stroll through the village and drink hot chocolate. Many accommodations also have a play room or pool for children. Check the weather and lift information in the morning, as some lifts close in strong wind. In fog, lower slopes in the forest usually offer better visibility. A flexible plan with an alternative for the afternoon prevents disappointment, and children often recover well after a rest day before the next ski day.

Frequently asked questions