For dedicated skiers, Arlberg is almost a legendary place. This Austrian massif, known as the 'cradle of Alpine skiing', consists of a handful of villages, 305km of ski runs and a collection of cosy pubs and diverse restaurants for the all-important après-ski. In winter, the snow is reliable and deep, making it a perfect area to test yourself against the mountains. When the snow melts, hiking to the peaks will reveal lush green valleys and flower meadows. There's hardly a more majestic backdrop to a tasty plate of noodle-and-cheese käsespätzle.
Hostels in Arlberg make the most of the region's natural beauty with breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings. If you're booking as a couple or with a small group of friends, you can choose to stay in a private apartment, right beside the village of Pettneu and with a striking forest vista. Look for an Arlberg hostel with free linen and towels to keep your packing to a minimum and pick a place with free Wi-Fi so you can use the handy Ski Arlberg app.
Of the villages that make up Arlberg, St Anton is the best known. Its charming Alpine buildings are a welcoming place to return to and it has the region's liveliest nightlife. Pettneu village sits at the foot of the Hoher Riffler peak and nearby Schann adjoins a nature reserve only recently opened to hikers. Flirsch village is a great gateway to the region, with shuttle buses, the start of hiking trails and even a toboggan run. The pretty village of St Christoph has excellent snow conditions due to its altitude of 1,793m.
In winter, Arlberg is all about snow sports. If you're up for an all-day route, try the 85km Run of Fame. This circuit cuts through St Anton, Lech and Zürs, and if you complete it (and check in on the app) within two days, you'll receive a prize. You can hike the 2,811m of Valluga, the region's highest peak, or take the cable car to the top for panoramic views. For art at altitude, head to Lech for James Turrell's 1,780m-high immersive Skyspace installation, where the light changes to enhance the sunset.
The nearest airport is in Innsbruck. From there, you can take a train to St Anton (just over an hour), and a taxi from there if you're staying in one of the other villages. Many people fly into Zurich Airport, where you can catch a shuttle bus. For getting around Arlberg itself, pick up some skis or hiking boots!
