Sonnbühel - World's Oldest Ski Hut Since 1924

The world's oldest ski hut, serving since 1924. Perched above Kitzbühel at 2,000m with views of the racing course. Après-ski wine in a wooden hut that predates competitive skiing itself.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Touch the Wood That Predates Competitive Skiing History · Price: moderate

   Built between 1924-1926 by Berlin industrialist Dr. Julius Bueb as a private luxury residence, this is the world's oldest ski hut since 1924. The first Hahnenkamm race didn't happen until 1931 — meaning Berggasthof Sonnbühel was serving wine BEFORE competitive skiing existed. Inside this 'jewel of the 1920s' preserved almost in its original state, ask the staff: 'Can you show me the original 1920s features?' Look for preserved wood paneling, historic photos on the walls, and the original structure. Touch the wooden beams — these were here when skiing was still a novelty sport, not a global industry. Then order wine in a room that predates the sport it now celebrates.

   Backup: If staff are too busy, explore the public spaces independently. The main dining room has historical photos and the original 1920s architecture is visible everywhere. The wood, layout, and windows are 100 years old.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Taste Zweigelt or Blaufränkisch at Alpine Altitude Wine · Price: moderate

   Zweigelt (Austria's most-planted red, dark cherry and silky texture) and Blaufränkisch (Austria's answer to Syrah, with dark fruit and spice) are the country's flagship reds. At your table inside Sonnbühel, perched above Kitzbühel near the Hahnenkamm cable car top station, drinking them at alpine altitude changes the perception — lower air pressure makes tannins taste softer and fruit more prominent. Austrian pours are famously generous. Order a glass of Zweigelt OR Blaufränkisch (ask the server which they stock). Taste for: cherry, plum, pepper, and soft tannins. Ask: 'Does altitude change how these reds taste?' The answer is yes — the same wine at sea level would taste more structured and tannic.

   Backup: If neither grape is available, ask for 'an Austrian red wine.' Sonnbühel's wine list focuses on Austrian producers. Any red will demonstrate the altitude effect and the generous pour style.

   Log Memory
3. 3 Ski or Hike to the World's First Ski Hut Adventure · Free · Optional

   This is the world's oldest ski hut (1924), so reaching it by ski or boot completes the historical circle. Winter: Take the Hahnenkamm cable car up, then ski toward the Sonnbühel (follow signs or ask lift operators) — ski like a 1920s skier to arrive at the world's first ski hut. The descent is moderate. Summer: Hike from the cable car top station following trail signs to Sonnbühel (20-30 minute walk). The approach reveals why Bueb chose this spot — shelter, views, and proximity to skiing terrain. Either route puts you in the footsteps of 100 years of skiers who've made this pilgrimage.

   Backup: If you can't ski or hike, simply ride the cable car and walk from the top station. The journey still connects you to 100 years of skiers who've made this pilgrimage to the world's first ski hut.

   Log Memory