I joined Contiki in December for a three‑night ski escape, flying into Innsbruck. As the plane dipped between jagged peaks into a snow‑draped valley, I was glued to the window. Minutes after landing, the Contiki crew had us on a coach and heading straight for the mountains, with icebreaker games on the coach so I could get to know my fellow travellers. 

Haus Schöneck sits just outside the Tyrolean town of Hopfgarten and is used exclusively by Contiki. You feel that in the atmosphere: relaxed, and incredibly sociable. Rooms are a mix of shared dorms and ensuites, but the real magic is in the communal spaces: a cosy bar, a sauna for thawing ski legs and big lounges full of pre‑slope nerves and post‑slope storytelling. I arrived knowing no one and, by the first evening’s pub quiz, already had a team. Dinner is a nightly ritual: everyone sits together for a chef‑prepared three‑course meal (dietaries properly catered for), followed by drinks or themed nights. Breakfast is continental with hot options and Contiki’s famous pancakes. It feels like a big easygoing house party, with structure and support. 

Days are spent in SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental, one of Austria’s biggest ski areas. Contiki’s shuttle drops you at the Hohe Salve base in about five minutes. Ski passes, equipment and lessons are all pre‑organised, so you are never left wondering what to do or where to go.

There are few finer places to learn: wide nursery slopes, patient instructors for all capabilities and very much a “no judgement” vibe. My first morning was spent narrowly missing falls and laughing; by Day 3 I was linking turns and actually enjoying blue runs. Confident skiers and boarders have plenty of blues, reds and blacks to progress to, with reliable snow throughout the season thanks to the hundreds of snow cannons across the valley. 

Mountain food is a highlight: schnitzel, goulash, apple strudel and hot chocolate with a view. My standout moment was a schnitzel‑and‑beer lunch at a mountainside après bar, skis stuck in the snowbank and music drifting across the valley.

Even off the slopes, there is a lot going on: village wanders, sledging, competitive bowling nights and paragliding over the Alps for the truly fearless. There is always something to join, but no pressure if you need quiet time.

From a Travel Counsellor point of view, I would happily recommend this to nervous first‑timers, solo travellers and uni groups. It feels young and fun, but also safe, structured and well looked after. Over 70% of Contiki's travellers arrive solo too, which says a lot about the brand and how confident it makes people feel.

If you would like to experience Hopfgarten with Contiki, I can tailor dates, flights and nights around this lodge stay and handle everything securely through Travel Counsellors. Contact me today to start planning your own ski adventure in the Austrian Alps.