How to get the winter season off to a perfect start – tips for the start of the season!

You can feel it everywhere – winter is just around the corner. The last colourful leaves have fallen, the peaks are already glistening with the first snow, and there is that familiar hint of cold and anticipation in the crisp air. Mid-November is just the right time to get in the mood, mentally retrieve your skis from the cellar and look forward to everything winter has to offer.

It's still quiet in the Salzburger Sportwelt, but that will soon change. The first lifts open at the end of November and then it's one thing after another: fresh powder snow, glistening slopes and lots of winter moments that we can all look forward to. To make sure you're well prepared, I've put together my personal tips for the start of the season – including a real highlight that you shouldn't miss.

The perfect start to winter? Definitely the Winter Opening 2025 in Flachau! On the 6th and 7th of December, not only will the slopes be opened, but there will also be celebrations throughout the weekend. During the day, you can enjoy your first ski experience in Snow Space Salzburg, and in the evening, the fun continues with concerts, good vibes and lots of energy.

This year, there are three top acts on stage:
• Andreas Gabalier,
• DJ Ötzi feat. Woodstock Allstar Band und
• die Nockis.

This weekend, Flachau will be transformed into a huge open-air stage filled with music, atmosphere and unforgettable moments. And best of all, the 8th of December is a public holiday – meaning you can relax and party late into the night on Sunday without having to worry about Monday morning.

In addition to the concerts, there will be atmospheric live music at several huts in Snow Space Salzburg and fantastic after-parties. A highlight that will delight winter sports and music fans alike!

All information about the programme, tickets and supporting programme can be found at flachau.com/winteropening. My tip for you: there are also packages available for the Winter Opening in Flachau – allowing you to book your concert ticket, accommodation and ski pass together. This saves you time when planning and allows you to concentrate fully on celebrating and skiing.

Before you strap into your ski boots for the first time, it's worth doing a quick equipment check. Get your skis out of the cellar, check the base and, ideally, have them serviced at one of the specialist sports shops in the region. A fresh grind and waxed edges really make a difference and ensure the perfect first turn.

If you're in the mood for something new, the Winter Opening in Flachau is the perfect opportunity: on the 6th and 7th of December, a grand ski test will take place at the Achter Jet mountain station. Here you can try out the latest models from various brands – just drop by and test what suits you best. And the best part is: the test is free of charge.

And here's a little tip from me personally: some places are currently holding winter equipment swap & sales. You can often find real bargains and sustainable alternatives to new purchases there.

Plan early to get more out of winter and save money too! With the Ski Amadé early bird bonus, you can secure your ski passes online now at a special price. And if you already have a chip card, you can even skip the queue at the ticket office.

Still unsure? No problem – with the cancellation guarantee, the purchase price can be refunded up to two days before the first day of skiing.

The All-IN Card White (the season ticket for Ski Amadé) is also available at a discounted advance purchase price until the 4th of December 2025. And if you already had one last year, you'll receive an additional loyalty bonus of up to €100.

So: plan early, book smart – and start the new winter season full of anticipation.

Winter is just around the corner, anticipation is growing – and with a little preparation, the start of the season will be simply perfect. So: wax your skis, book your accommodation, gather your friends – and head to Flachau for the Winter Opening. Bring on winter!

photo credits: Flachau Tourismus, Gerald Oberreiter, Markus Kohlmayr