Because St. Anton am Arlberg is far more than just pistes and powder.
St. Anton has a reputation as one of the Alps’ most hardcore ski destinations - but even if you never clip into bindings, there's a huge amount to enjoy. From legendary après-ski and alpine spas to winter walks and toboggan runs, here are the six best non-skiing experiences in St. Anton.
1. Experience Legendary Après-Ski (Even Without Skis)
You don’t need to ski to enjoy what St. Anton does best after 3pm. The après-ski scene here is world-famous and extremely accessible on foot, taxi or gondola.
Why do it: Live DJs, dancing on tables, mountain views, and a social buzz you won’t find in many other resorts.
2. Relax at the Arlberg WellCom Spa & Wellness Centre
If skiing is high-adrenaline St. Anton, Arlberg WellCom is its calm counterbalance. This modern wellness complex includes indoor & outdoor heated pools, multiple saunas and steam rooms, fitness facilities & more. It's popular with non-skiers, rest-day skiers, and anyone who wants to soothe tired legs.
Why do it: Few alpine resorts offer a spa this good right in the village centre.
3. Go Tobogganing (Night or Day)
Tobogganing in St. Anton is fast, fun, and surprisingly thrilling. The most popular runs are easily reached by lift or short taxi ride, with sleds available to rent locally. Some runs are floodlit at night, making this a brilliant après-dinner activity.
Why do it: It’s adrenaline-packed, social, and requires absolutely no skiing experience.
4. Explore Winter Hiking & Snowshoe Trails
St. Anton has an excellent network of winter walking and snowshoe trails, many starting directly from town. Popular routes include valley walks towards Verwall and scenic loops around Nasserein and St. Jakob.
Why do it: You get the alpine scenery, fresh air and quiet side of the Arlberg - without the crowds.
5. Enjoy Alpine Dining & Mountain Restaurants
Food is a serious business in St. Anton. Many mountain restaurants are accessible by gondola, meaning non-skiers can enjoy lunch with panoramic views. Expect classic Austrian dishes (Wiener schnitzel, goulash, Kaiserschmarrn), high-quality international menus, & sun terraces with unbeatable views. In the village, dining ranges from cosy Tyrolean stube to stylish modern restaurants.
Why do it: Few places let you reach world-class mountain restaurants without skiing down afterwards.
6. Visit ARL.Rock Sport Park or Take a Walk Around Verwallsee
If you want something active without skiing, the ARL.Rock Sportpark is a brilliant option. This modern indoor sports centre offers climbing walls, bouldering, tennis, squash and fitness facilities - ideal in bad weather or for mixed-ability groups. Alternatively, slow things down with a peaceful walk to Verwallsee, a picturesque alpine lake just outside town. In winter it’s often snow-covered or frozen, creating one of the most scenic and tranquil walks in the area.
Why do it: Choose between high-energy indoor activity or one of the most relaxing winter walks near St. Anton.
