The Alps cover most of Austria, so it's really no surprise that this country is one of Europe's top ski holiday destinations. Unlike some other European countries, Austrian ski villages are "chocolate-box" traditional and very pretty, centring round an onion-domed church rather than a coach park.

Austrian ski resorts also have a reputation for having a high standard of accommodation that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, and some of the liveliest apres ski in the Alps. All in all, a ski holiday in Austria will give you great skiing and beautiful scenery, without breaking the bank.

The slopes in Austria tend to be well laid out, with excellent mountain facilities, modern lift systems and pistes that don't tend to get too clogged with skiers. Many resorts in Austria have pretty, tree-lined slopes, even if they aren't all that long.

The downside to skiing in Austria is that many resorts are at mid-altitude, so the snow can be a bit sketchy late in the season. In recent years the early-season snow in Austria has been a match for anywhere in the world.

Some Austrian resorts can be lacking in more challenging terrain, but facilities for beginners are generally pretty good.

Nightlife in Austria's ski resorts is both lively and varied. Whether you like swilling beer to the sound of folk music or tea-dancing to disco, you'll probably find something to suit. One point to bear in mind is that Austria isn't known for its grasp on modern music, though fans of 'Euro-pop' will be in heaven, particularly in St Anton and Ischgl. 

Austrian ski holidays are very popular on the German market, probably helped by their proximity and language similarities - but English is also widely spoken too. It's a great country for a family ski holiday as well as for some hardcore boarding….