Psst. It’s still a secret. We come to a stop with a sharp braking maneuver right in front of the lift and can hop back on right away. We don’t get a chance to catch our breath until we’re sitting in the gondola or chairlift, gently gliding upward with a view of the surrounding peaks. Between us: the slopes are practically empty. Even if you can barely find a parking spot down below, up here it’s all clear sailing—on the slopes, of course , but also on the lifts. And that’s true even during peak season. Whether it’s a sunny Christmas morning, New Year’s Eve, or Easter, you rarely have to wait in line. It’s a good thing not many people know that yet.

There might be a short wait if two ski school classes happen to arrive at the same time. And if you want to enjoy your lunch in the sun, grab one of the popular spots on the sun terraces when you stop for a break. There, you’ll find people gathering to enjoy Schlipfkrapfen, Kaiserschmarren, and dumplings. And after we’ve thoroughly enjoyed our break with panoramic views and some sunbathing, we’re off again—for endless turns on wide runs.

No wonder the Osttirol ski areas are repeatedly rated as insider tips or top resorts. They’re family-friendly and have guaranteed snow—and they’re not overcrowded. But we’ll keep that little secret to ourselves ;)