Ski holidays at the Großglockner Resort Kals–Matrei

• The Großglockner Resort links the ski areas of Kals am Großglockner and Matrei in East Tyrol.
• The two areas were brought together under a shared brand in 2008.
• The resort is located in the Granatspitz Group, southwest of the Großglockner.
• The two sections, Kals and Matrei, are linked via the Cimaross area.
• Lift stations in Matrei and Kals provide access to the ski area from two sides.
• Goldried is the Matrei section of the ski area; Blauspitz is the original Kals section.

From Matrei, access leads to the Goldried area. A gondola takes you up to the higher main part of the ski area, while other lifts serve the area towards Cimaross. From Kals, separate lifts provide access to the Blauspitz area and the connection to Cimaross. The access points are therefore on different sides of the ski area; when choosing accommodation and planning your daily journey, make sure to check the relevant starting point. The Großglockner Resort lift and piste map can help with detailed day planning.

The names of the areas help you make sense of maps and accommodation descriptions. Goldried is in Matrei, Blauspitz in Kals. Cimaross is the link between the two sections.

The first thing to consider is where your group is staying and which valley station you can reach without unnecessary detours. When choosing accommodation, consider the distance to the access point, possible ski bus connections and your return journey at the end of the day. Staying in Kals may be convenient for accessing the ski area from Kals; accommodation in Matrei can make it easier to use the Goldried access point. So compare the address, route and seasonal transfers rather than booking based solely on the name of the ski area.

If you are travelling with children or people with varying levels of skiing ability, it is worth agreeing on meeting points and the day’s schedule in advance. The two sections are connected, but the group should decide whether everyone wants to ski together and how to meet up again if they take separate routes down. Beginner areas are available in Großdorf-Kals and at the top station of the Goldried gondola. Advanced skiers should check the latest terrain and piste information and choose a route suited to the group’s ability.

For your ski day, check the latest opening information for lifts, pistes and connections. Poor visibility, wind or winter road conditions may also affect how you get to the access point. Allow plenty of time for your journey there and back, and follow local closures and safety advice.

For regional context, see the overviews of skiing in East Tyrol and skiing in Tyrol.