Galtür is another great value Paznaun valley gem and Ischgl alternative. Set impressively under the looming peak of Ballunspitze, the resort is larger than it seems, with a wide spread of complex off-piste terrain from one end to the other. Perfect for intermediates on the piste, its groomed trails have limited appeal to advanced riders and surprisingly little for learning novices. Off the piste, there are some great top to bottom freeride lines down from the top of the Ballunspitze chairlift. The entire sector under and around the Breitspitz gondola has masses of terrain to explore, but it is quite complex in places so a bit of reconnaissance (or having a local guide) will be of benefit. The snow in the Brietspitz sector retains its quality longer than the main aspect above Wirl, plus has some tree skiing opportunities for the adventurous explorer.

Galtuer's lift system is excellent, providing massive coverage despite being relatively small in number.

By virtue of its location, the resort seems more windswept than See, Kappl or most of Ischgl, and surprisingly lacking in truly long consistent fall line. Care needs to be taken where several trails intersect in the middle of the resort where the two main sectors interlink (trails 7, 9, 14, 17). Almost got wiped out by a few uphill skiers that didn't take the time to look! Regardless, Galtur has so much to offer and is simply glorious on a sunny day.

Accommodation at its base (in the hamlet of Wirl) is ski-in ski-out. The main town of Galtuer has oodles of lodging options (an ever-increasing number!) and is perfectly connected to the ski lifts via free local buses. The town has all required services & shops for an extended stay.

Car parking for day trippers from further down the valley is excellent (and free). We used the one at the end of the road, right at the Birkhahn quad chair valley station.

Lift passes here are super value, particularly if one asks for a half day and gets back in time to cash it in. Anyone heading to the Paznaun would be remiss not to spend some time at Galtuer.