The Stubai Glacier (Stubaier Gletscher) in Tyrol, Austria is the largest glacier ski resort in Austria, offering snow-sure skiing from autumn well into spring. Located at the head of the scenic Stubai Valley, it is accessible via the mountain villages of Neustift and Fulpmes. In November, we joined an organized ski tour to kick off the winter ski season on the alpine glacier.
Reaching the Glacier Peak at 3,150 Meters
From Fulpmes, complimentary ski shuttle buses connect to the glacier base station. Taking the Eisgrat cable car and continuing up the Schaufeljochbahn brings skiers up to the Jochdohle at 3,150 meters (10,335 feet) – the highest mountain restaurant in Austria.
The panoramic viewing platform accessible right from the restaurant stairs offers an awe-inspiring vista across the Tyrolean Alps, stretching as far as the Italian Dolomites on clear days.
Alpine Glacier Skiing & Tyrolean Delicacies
The ski area features 26 modern lifts and over 100 kilometers of diverse slopes, predominantly wide, sweeping blue and red glacier cruisers perfect for finding your ski rhythm early in the season.
Three out of our four days brought glorious bluebird skies and crisp autumn sunshine. Midday stops at the Gamsgarten sun terrace for traditional Tyrolean specialties – Käsespätzle, Kaiserschmarrn, and warm Germknödel – made the ski experience unforgettable.
For early-season skiers and alpine mountain lovers, the Stubai Glacier is a prime European ski destination!
Alpine Photo Impressions from Stubai Glacier
Here are visual highlights from our early season days carving down the glacier and taking in the panoramic mountain views:
⛷️ Alpine Ski Essentials for Glacier Altitudes
Skiing above 3,000 meters requires specialized high-altitude protection:
- Category 3/4 Ski Goggles: Glacier snow reflection at 3,000m is blinding. Double-lens anti-fog goggles with high UV protection are vital.
- High-Altitude Sunblock & Lip Balm: Cold winds mask severe UV radiation – apply SPF 50 sunscreen to exposed skin throughout the day.
- Thermal Base Layers: High glacier altitudes can be freezing even on sunny days; merino wool thermal underwear regulates body warmth effectively.