Austria, ZillertalApril 18, 2025, by Romy Schouten

Barts Best of: Zillertal (oh oh Tyrol)

Austria, Zillertal, April 18, 2025, by Romy Schouten

Barts Best of: Zillertal (oh oh Tyrol)

Zillertal — who doesn't know it? At least, this valley is not unknown among Dutch winter sports enthusiasts. And that's not without reason! The area is top connected, just right in terms of level (not too spicy, not too boring) and is chock full of great places to eat. Oh yeah, and after ski? There is enough of that here. Zillertal is certainly popular among the party peeps, but families also get their money's worth here. Dutch ski instructors aplenty, and for the little ones it's extra fun to make new friends on the slopes in their own language.

Once a favorite remains a favorite — logically. But where do you really have to go? Where do you eat the best? Especially for the Zillertal-newbies (and secretly also for the seasoned fans): a few great tips in a row.

Which village?

Zell am Ziller, Gerlos, Königsleiten and Wald-Königsleiten: which one do you choose?

Gerl know what to do with after ski — especially if you love Dutch sing-alongs (Cin Cin is your place!). It's super cozy here. Cell in the brick is a bit quieter and often also a bit more friendly priced. But no worries: from here you can easily reach the vibrant Mayrhofen, where there is a lot of life in the brewery again. Only... that cozy, authentic ski village feeling? You might miss that a little here.

Then rather Koenigsleiten. Completely on the other side of the area — right on the ski map. Smaller, more friendly, and just that little bit more idyllic. Less busy than Gerlos, but still a few nice after ski spots. But don't expect polonaises until deep into the night. Oh well, maybe you'll find them here too... Perfect for families, and also a bit friendlier to your wallet than the party proof Gerlos.

Tip from Flip: download the Zillertal app. This way you always have the map at hand (also offline) and you can navigate easily. Ideal if you have an appointment somewhere for lunch. Skiing down the wrong mountain happens faster than you think - and it would be a shame if everyone was already sitting on the terrace with a full plate while you were still on your way. Do you think that Google Maps is enough? You are wrong! That won't get you very far on the mountain.

Lunch on the slopes

There are many places where you can eat well – from fresh pasta to a hearty plate of potatoes with bacon. But like everywhere, there is also some standard tourist food. We will skip that. This is where you have to be:

Larmach Alm
Big, but good. Ideal on sunny days, because with the enormous terrace there is always room. Outside you can only take away (the grilled chickens hang on the spit), inside you can also à la carte food. Psst… the tastiest dishes are listed there. Ordering inside, waiting and eating outside in the sun are also options.

s'Legal – Kreuzjochhütte
You really can't miss this one. An idyllic spot, accessible via a forest path. Small, charming and so good food. Just go. And the Kaiserschmarrn order – you will definitely want to come back.

Kreuzwiesenalm
It's called that on the map, on Google Maps you can find it under Schmankerlhutte (very confusing, we know). Good food, nice terrace, and the menu includes traditional dishes as well as pizzas – great for kids (and to share of course).

Even more lunch and drinks!

And then perhaps our favorite: BergGeistAlm. A little out of the direction of the play area, but so worth it. Small-scale, atmospheric and with really good food. Austrian style, but just a little bit different. Not only Kaiserschmarrn en Knödel (although it is very good here), but also surprising dishes that you don't see everywhere.

And then the round Jägermeister… You can order it here in style – served by a 'beaver', 'fox' or other hairy type, with its own theme music. Well, you have to experience it. Perfect to stay a while longer for a bit after ski.

And maybe the best part: the service is great. So friendly. Small sidenote: they only accept cash – but hey, there's an ATM next to the hut, cleverly enough.

Almbar
Not for food, but for an Aperol or good coffee in the sun. Think: sun loungers, a jar to nail (you know, that game with a wooden block and a nail) and a little color on your face. Lovely.

Are you reading this outside the winter sports season? Then go in the summer. Just as beautiful – but in a completely different way. No skis, but hiking boots. Huppa, on foot to all these mountain huts.

Check in advance if they are open, because they are not open all year round. Nothing is more annoying than standing in front of a closed door with a growling stomach.

Après ski

Well, Zillertal is known for it, so here we go: après-ski time! You're in good hands on the slopes Seppi's – one of the few spots with house/techno-like music. Pretty cool! Keep in mind that you still have to ski down after your last drink, so make sure you’re okay with that. The place closes around 16:30 – just in time for the next round…

And that next round? You'll find it – yes – in the valley at the iconic cheers. The Dutch after ski pub pur sang: from the bar staff to the singers, from the music to the wall coverings – everything screams Dutch cosiness. Is Cin Cin a bit too Dutch for you? Then you can go to Luigi's Turbo Bar.

Prefer drinks on the slopes but don't want to venture downhill? That's possible at the Umbrella Bar. And at the end of the afternoon? Then a bus goes straight to dinner. Just kidding – to Königsleiten, for food and your bed.

Barts Best of: Zillertal (oh oh Tyrol)