Beer & Après Prices in Silvretta Montafon
What you'll actually pay for drinks and food in Silvretta Montafon, Austria. Prices verified for 2025/26 season.
The Drinking Culture in Silvretta Montafon
Silvretta Montafon's après-ski culture represents a delightful contradiction—neither as wild as neighbouring Ischgl nor as subdued as some Swiss resorts, instead offering a uniquely Vorarlberg blend of alpine tradition and laid-back mountain vibes. The region has developed its après-ski identity over the past four decades, evolving from simple mountain hut drinking into a sophisticated scene that still honours its agricultural heritage. What makes Silvretta Montafon distinct is its village-based nightlife rather than a single resort centre; each village from Schruns to Gaschurn to Brand develops its own character after dark. The crowd tends to be a mix of Austrian regulars, German holidaymakers, and international skiers who appreciate the region's relative under-the-radar status compared to bigger names. The atmosphere strikes a balance between authentic Tyrolean gemütlichkeit and contemporary mountain-bar culture—think live folk music alongside DJ sets, and Jägermeister shared alongside natural wines. Late February through early April brings the liveliest crowds, especially during school holidays, while January offers quieter bars and more intimate encounters with locals. The season typically runs from early December through mid-April, with the Christmas/New Year period and February holidays peak times for atmosphere.
Complete Bar Guide
Prices & Value
Silvretta Montafon occupies a middle ground in Alpine pricing—more expensive than French megaresorts but noticeably cheaper than neighbouring Switzerland and many premium Austrian destinations like St. Anton or Lech. The Montafon valley offers particularly good value compared to the glitzier Austrian names, with prices dropping noticeably in villages further from the main lifts. Beer prices at mountain bars run €4-6 for a 0.4L draft, while village venues charge €3.50-5. Wine by the glass costs €4-7, with cocktails ranging €9-14. Shots (typically Jägermeister or Korn) cost €3-5. The hidden cost to watch for is the aggressive rounding up that happens in smaller venues—always check your bill. Locals tend to drink in village bars and during happy hour (5pm-7pm in many spots), while tourists gravitate toward the more visible mountain bars and late-night venues in Schruns.
How it compares: Slightly cheaper than Ischgl or St. Anton (typically 10-15% less), significantly cheaper than Swiss resorts like Zermatt or St. Moritz (40-50% less for equivalent drinks), and comparable to the French Alps for beer while being slightly cheaper for wine and cocktails.
Where locals drink: Locals favour the smaller venues in Gaschurn and Brand over Schruns, particularly during peak season when prices drop further from tourist centres. The 'Stammtisch' (regulars' table) culture means visiting the same bar repeatedly yields increasingly generous pours and insider knowledge.
Perfect Après Itineraries
🎉 The Classic Route
Start at Hochjoch Hospiz for 3pm slopeside celebrations—grab a terrace table early and work through their excellent Korn Spritzers while watching the final ski runs. After the party peaks around 5pm, descend to Schruns via cable car. Freshen up briefly, then head to Tamino Bar for sophisticated pre-dinner cocktails around 7pm, sampling their regional creations. Walk to dinner at a recommended restaurant (book ahead during peak season). From 10pm, bar-hop through Schruns—maybe a quick drink at Bobby's before diving into Schruna around 11pm for the full late-night experience. The classic route finishes when the sun threatens to rise or your legs give out, whichever comes first.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Begin afternoon at Kuhstall mountain bar—prices are lower and the atmosphere more relaxed. Take the 4:30pm lift down and walk directly to the nearest supermarket for provisions (Silvretta Montafon's local Mpreis offers decent cheap wine and beer for hostel/cottage drinking). Meet friends in your accommodation for pre-drinks from 6pm. Head to Bobby's in Gaschurn for live music on the cheap (often no cover charge), or find venues offering early-evening happy hour deals. Finish with nightcaps back at your accommodation rather than expensive late-night bars. This route easily halves standard spending while still capturing the scene.
✨ Upscale Evening
Reserve tables at the highly-rated restaurant at Hotel Sarotla for dinner—their wine list is exceptional. Afterwards, walk to Wein & Mehr for an extended wine-tasting experience with the sommelier, exploring rare Austrian bottles. Progress to Tamino Bar for post-dinner cocktails in the intimate back room if available. For true late-night luxury, your accommodation likely has a bar—many high-end hotels like the Hotel resp. Kristiania offer sophisticated venues that stay open later for guests. This itinerary prioritises quality over quantity, with a more sedate pace that lets you appreciate regional specialities rather than rushing between venues.
Local Secrets
- The 'Hüttenzauber' happy hour runs from 3pm-4pm at Kuhstall, when drinks are discounted before the main après-ski rush—arriving early means cheaper drinks AND better table selection.
- Ask for 'Alpenwasser mit Most' (apple cider mixed with sparkling water) at any bar—it's a regional favourite that rarely appears on menus and costs roughly half what cocktails do.
- The back entrance to Schruna (through the alley off the main square) bypasses the queue that forms outside after midnight—local regulars always use it.
- During late March, the 'Almabtrieb' celebration marks cattle descending from alpine pastures with extended mountain bar openings, special drinks, and traditional music that tourist crowds haven't discovered yet.
- The unmarked distillery shop in Schruns (next to the church, look for the small sign) sells Montafoner Schnaps at cellar-door prices—perfect for bringing home authentic souvenirs or gifts.
Quick Price Check
On-slope bar, standard lager
Village bar, evening drink
House wine, restaurant
Espresso or cappuccino
Main course + drink, on-slope
Two courses + drink, mid-range restaurant
How Does Silvretta Montafon Compare?
| Item | Silvretta Montafon | Austria Avg | Alps Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pint on mountain | €4 | €7 | €7 |
| Mountain lunch | €12 | €18 | €22 |
| Evening meal | €23 | €33 | €45 |
The Après Scene
Our Take
Silvretta Montafon has modest après-ski. A few bars and restaurants, but this isn't a party resort. Good for families or those who prefer early nights. Prices are reasonable.
Where to Drink
- Mooserwirt — Legendary party bar, lederhosen optional
- Trofana Alm — Traditional Austrian après, live music
Money-Saving Tips
- Drink at village bars rather than on-mountain - typically 20-30% cheaper
- Buy beer from supermarkets for accommodation pre-drinks
- Avoid table service at busy après spots - bar prices are lower
- Happy hour deals often run 4-6pm in village bars
- Look for "Heuriger" (wine taverns) for local wine at good prices
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