Sölden, Austria: Powder Skiing and Storm-Day Strategy in the Ötztal Valley with Theresa Gstrein

Few ski resorts in Europe combine early-season glacier skiing, massive terrain, modern lifts, and a lively alpine town quite like Sölden, Austria. Located in the Ötztal Valley about 45 minutes west of Innsbruck, Sölden has grown from a quiet farming village into one of Austria’s most powerful and dependable ski destinations — without losing its mountainsoul.

In this episode of Where to Ski, host John Morgan is joined by Theresa Gstrein, a Tyrolean local who grew up just up the road from Sölden and now works there. Her perspective reveals why Sölden continues to attract everyone from first-day skiers to freeriders chasing deep days.

While Sölden isn't known as a freeride destination, locals know better. With terrain on all aspects of Gaislachkogl, snow sticks around long after storms pass. Sölden delivers unforgettable powder days — including deep, light snow that surprises visitors who underestimate Austria’s Alps.

Sölden is also friendly to intermediate skiers. Areas like Rotkoglijock feature wide,flowing runs perfect for easing back into ski season or spending full days exploring.

This town isn't just a ski area — it’s a full-energy alpine town. Once a sleepy village, it now features hotels, pensions, restaurants, and bars buzzing with energy. Après-ski here is solid, both on the mountain and in town, yet it remains optional rather than overwhelming.

From traditional huts serving Kaiserschmarrn and schnitzel to high-end dining at Ice Q — famously featured in a James Bond film — Sölden delivers a diverse food scene .

When to Ski Sölden - it has a long season

• October–November: Early glacier skiing, training atmosphere, quiet town
• December–January: Full mountain opens, holiday crowds possible
• February–March: Best balance of snow, sun, and coverage
• April–May: Spring skiing, long days, glacier laps

Early starts are key. As with many resorts, starting between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. often means empty slopes and perfect snow before crowds arrive.

A beautiful town and a beautiful valley with some great skiing, its worth the trip. Have a listen.