Winter Start in Vienna: Snow Space Salzburg, Flachau and Zauchensee Join Forces with the Snowsports Academy

Winter has arrived in Vienna – and with a very special highlight: At the Vienna Ice Skating Club, Snow Space Salzburg, the World Cup destinations Flachau and Zauchensee, together with the Snowsports Academy, officially kicked off the new winter season. Ski legend Hermann Maier gave the ceremonial start and, together with Snow Space Salzburg, brought a real touch of the slopes to the heart of the city.

Winter Start in Vienna with Snow Space Salzburg featuring Hermann Maier, Michaela Kirchgasser, Anna Strigl and wheelchair tennis player Nico Langmann.

At the centre of attention was the mobile ski carpet (rolling ski slope), an innovative promotion tool that made skiing possible right on the ice surface of the Vienna Ice Skating Club – without snow, but with a truly authentic skiing sensation. Until 16 November 2025, visitors can make their first turns and get in the mood for the upcoming winter season.

Experience Skiing – Right in Vienna

What is normally reserved for the mountains can now be experienced by everyone in Vienna: on the ski carpet, children, adults and even complete beginners can try out the feeling of skiing up close. Under the guidance of the ski instructors from the Snowsports Academy and the Hermann Maier Ski School, many managed their very first “city turn” – supported with tips, motivation and plenty of enthusiasm.

This unique experience shows that skiing is much more than a sport – it’s about movement, emotion and joy. And that’s exactly what Snow Space Salzburg and the Snowsports Academy are bringing to the people of Vienna this week.

Ski instructor Danique demonstrated her skills on the rolling ski slope.

Responsibility, Emotion and Innovation

The winter kick-off in Vienna was all about sustainability, innovation and community spirit. Snow Space Salzburgdemonstrated how modern winter tourism works – with responsibility, vision and passion.

Hermann Maier, joined by moderator Michaela Kirchgasser, officially opened the event. Influencer Anna Strigl and wheelchair tennis player Nico Langmann also took part, showing that skiing can be accessible and inspiring for everyone.

Michaela Kirchgasser visibly enjoyed her interview with Hermann Maier.

Conclusion: Winter Begins – Emotional, Innovative and in the Heart of Vienna

The Vienna event proved one thing: when tradition, innovation and passion come together, something truly special happens.Snow Space Salzburg, Flachau, Zauchensee and the Snowsports Academy showcased how the winter tourism of tomorrow can be – responsible, inspiring and close to the people.

Anyone stepping onto the ski carpet on the ice surface of the Vienna Ice Skating Club these days will feel it immediately: winter is here – and it feels amazing.

Photo credits: Raffeiner Reputation / APA-Fotoservice / Reither – Photographer: Mirjam Reither