Oberstdorf, Bavarian Alps

Oberstdorf: 5 things to know before you go

Bavarian Alps, Germany 🇩🇪

Germany's southernmost town, the New Year ski-jumping roar at the Schattenberg, and three local mountains opening across the border into the Austrian Kleinwalsertal. Oberstdorf trades flash for substance, with 130 km of cross-border piste and an Allgäu valley that still feels lived-in.

1.Is the snow reliable in Oberstdorf?

Usually, with help. From 815 m to 2225 m the resort leans on grooming and snowmaking in lean spells, so check the live report before booking early or late dates (score 78/100).

2.Do you need a car, or can you ski in and out?

This is more of a valley base than a slopeside village, so expect a lift, train or shuttle to the snow each morning. Staying central, near the main lift, saves the most time.

3.How big is the ski area, and who is it for?

At 130 km of piste on 47 lifts, it is a substantial mountain that rewards a multi-day stay. The terrain is balanced (0 green, 40 blue, 30 red, 15 black), which suits a mixed-level group skiing together.

4.What is the resort like?

Oberstdorf stands out for a family-friendly setup.

5.When is the best time to go?

The season usually runs Dec 7 to Apr 21 (about 19 weeks). For the most dependable cover, the deep-winter window of January to February is the safe bet. Conditions soften as spring arrives, so earlier in the window is the safer call.

The full Oberstdorf guide

Hotels, piste breakdown, snow month by month, lift and rental info, map and more.

See the full Oberstdorf guide

More questions, answered

How much vertical drop does Oberstdorf have?
About 1410 m of vertical, from a 815 m base to 2225 m at the top.
Is Oberstdorf part of a larger ski area?
No, it is a self-contained resort with its own 130 km of piste rather than part of a linked domain.
Is Oberstdorf good for beginners?
It can work: 0 green and 40 blue runs are enough to start, though the area rewards skiers who can already link turns.

Where to stay

Hotels we like for ski access and value. Prices are indicative; check live availability.

Alpenhotel Oberstdorf
4.51.4k reviews
130
Top pick

Alpenhotel Oberstdorf

Very good · 1.4k reviews

Why we like it

Strong value for Oberstdorf, with a high guest rating that punches above its nightly price.

Guests rate this hotel as very good (4.5/5 from 1,418 reviews). It sits about 3.4 km from the slopes. A mid-range option for Oberstdorf, with live nightly rates shown for your exact dates so you always see the best price.

≈ 3.4 km to the slopesMid-range
From
130/ night
Check availability
Hotel Oberstdorf
4.61.0k reviews
145

Hotel Oberstdorf

Excellent · 1.0k reviews

Why we like it

Strong value for Oberstdorf, with a high guest rating that punches above its nightly price.

≈ 1.9 km to the slopesMid-range
From
145/ night
Check availability
Schüle's Gesundheitsresort & SPA
4.7375 reviews
145

Schüle's Gesundheitsresort & SPA

Excellent · 375 reviews

Why we like it

One of the highest-rated places to stay in Oberstdorf, with guests singling out the service and comfort.

≈ 850 m to the slopesMid-range
From
145/ night
Check availability

Ratings and review counts from Google Places. We may earn a commission on bookings.

Live snow report