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Arlberg Pass: The Cradle of Alpine Skiing

Discover the Arlberg Pass: A historic gateway to Austria's alpine heartland, offering world-class skiing and stunning summer landscapes.

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The Arlberg Pass, nestled in the Austrian Alps, is a historic mountain pass connecting Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Renowned as the 'cradle of alpine skiing,' it's a year-round destination offering stunning scenery and a rich sporting heritage. The pass is easily accessible and provides a gateway to numerous charming villages and world-class ski resorts.

A brief summary to Arlberg

  • St Anton am Arlberg, AT

Local tips

  • Drive the scenic Arlberg Pass road for breathtaking views, but be mindful of potential traffic and weather conditions.
  • Visit in summer for hiking and biking trails amidst stunning alpine scenery.
  • Explore the charming villages of St. Anton, Lech, and Zürs for a taste of traditional Alpine culture.
  • Check for local events and festivals, especially during the summer months, to experience regional customs and traditions.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Arlberg Pass is accessible via the B197 federal highway, connecting St. Anton am Arlberg and Warth. The road is well-maintained but can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. From St. Anton, follow the B197, passing through St. Christoph. The pass summit is located in the Tyrolean region. Parking is available in St. Christoph (free) and at various locations in St. Anton (approx. €7 per day). Note that a motorway vignette is required for Austrian motorways. Tolls may apply if using the Arlberg Tunnel as an alternative.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest train stations are St. Anton am Arlberg and Langen am Arlberg. From either station, take a regional bus (e.g., route 750 or 760) towards Lech or Zürs. These buses stop at various points along the Arlberg Pass road. A single bus fare costs approximately €4-6. The ski bus is free with a valid Ski Arlberg ski pass. Taxi services are also available from the train stations, with fares to St. Christoph or the pass summit costing approximately €40-60.

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Discover more about Arlberg

The Arlberg Pass isn't just a geographical landmark; it's a symbol of Alpine history and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated at 1,793 meters (5,883 feet) above sea level, the pass has served as a vital transportation link between the regions of Tyrol and Vorarlberg for centuries. While the name 'Arlberg' might suggest a towering peak, it actually refers to the pass itself, which gracefully traverses the mountainous terrain. The name is derived from the 'Arlenbüschen' (larch shrubs) found in the area. The pass road winds through nine hairpin bends, stretching over 18 kilometers with an average gradient of 6%. The Arlberg's legacy as the 'cradle of alpine skiing' is deeply ingrained in its identity. In the late 19th century, the construction of the Arlberg railway tunnel opened up the region to tourism, sparking a passion for winter sports. The Arlberg Ski Club, founded in 1901, played a pivotal role in popularizing skiing, and the area soon became a hub for innovation in ski technique and technology. Today, Ski Arlberg stands as Austria's largest interconnected ski resort and one of the five largest in the world. Beyond its winter allure, the Arlberg Pass transforms into a summer paradise for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. Marked trails meander through lush forests, alpine meadows, and alongside crystal-clear lakes. The Arlberg Trail, a long-distance hiking route, connects the five Arlberg villages, offering a multi-day adventure through breathtaking scenery. The villages surrounding the Arlberg Pass—St. Anton, St. Christoph, Stuben, Lech, and Zürs—each possess their own unique charm and character. These villages offer a blend of traditional Alpine hospitality, world-class restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene.

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