Kappl goes a long way to proving what we already know at Powderhounds. The 'smaller' ski resorts in Austria absolutely rock on a powder day, even during the busy high season in February.

We were timing our run to Kappl based on the snow forecast & absolutely scored. After a blizzard day riding deep pow at See (opposite side of the valley a few minutes down the road from Kappl) with no one to compete, we were super-primed for a big day at Kappl on a clearing morning. With high winds the previous day, the upper lift did not open, and the resort presented up with an abundance of incredible freeride powder skiing above the tree line. The upper alpine zone has around 1,000m of skiable vertical from the top of Alblittkopfe (2,720m) which on a powder day is a piece of Paznaun perfection. Groomed trails wrap around the entire upper mountain allowing for simple exits back to the lifts from the off-piste. Whilst we had a handful of crew competing with us for first tracks, we at no stage felt under pressure and lift lines were non-existent.

On the piste trail side of the equation, long rolling runs are available for all abilities with the least amount of terrain probably for progressing beginners.

There are several great mountain restaurants, but most are 'self-serve' only. The exception is Almstüberl next to piste 10 which has excellent table service (but is popular because of it!). We enjoyed the Huisleralm too. In the valley just before the gondola station and right next to the ski trail, stop at the Schafstall (Sheep Barn) for après brews and tunes. You can’t miss it, just look for the massive sheep head on the roof.

Staying overnight in a fabulous self-contained apartment near See at the time we skied Kappl was super convenient. In the Paznaun, with the bus system so reliable, it is possible to stay anywhere from See to Wirl and ski all four of the valley's fantastic resorts. If staying in Kappl itself, you may still need to take a bus to get to the gondola base, so don't assume ski-in, ski-out if looking to stay in the village.

Absolutely adored Kappl, but there are two caveats - the terrain is generally sunny, south-facing and the snow can get baked if temperatures rise (which these days is a given), plus a few lifts are getting old and need replacing, particularly the important Gongallbahn - a shitty old 2-seater!

Come and party in the Paznaun valley at Ischgl but come and ski powder in the Paznaun at Kappl (or See …. or Galtür …). You will not regret it.
See our video here

Kappl was so much fun. Heaps of good quality powder here, there and everywhere, for everyone, all day after a storm.
See our video here