ZELL AM SEE
AUSTRIA
Zell am See is a contender for the most beautiful setting in Europe, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Lake Zell and the towering Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. This picturesque town is for skiers and snowboarders, blending its charming alpine village atmosphere with modern amenities and facilities. With access to a vast ski area, Zell am See is perfect for families, beginners, and advanced skiers. The combination of scenic beauty, excellent slopes, and a lively apres-ski scene makes Zell am See a must-visit winter destination. In this guide, we explore everything that you need to know about Zell am See from ski area, ski passes, accommodation, where to eat, apres-ski, and how to get there.
PLAN YOUR SKI ADVENTURE
Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favorite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.
Ski World– They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada for more than 36 years.
Skyscanner– it’s our go to for finding the best flights, we usually start here and usually finish here. They price check over 1,200 sites to help you find the best prices.
Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on Booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews. We find they have the cheapest rates and offer payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermatt, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find Omio or Trainline are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.
Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com provide reliable options with winter equipment.
Travel insurance– Don’t ski without it. If you get hurt on the mountain it could cost, you a small fortune if you’re not insured. We use SAFETYWING when my wife broke her ankle a few years ago in Wengen they were terrific.
Ski Equipment. – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Owning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like Skis, Pants and Jackets, Gloves, Ski-helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Berg’s Ski and Snowboard (USA) or Snow and Rock (UK).
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
For specific resort information- we turn to the resort website, which often provides details on lift passes, equipment rentals, ski school bookings. These resources together make planning our ski trips a lot easier.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.
The town of Zell am See is a traditional Austrian alpine village with cobbled streets, quaint chalets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. The town combines its historical charm with modern conveniences, offering a variety of accommodations, shops and restaurants.
We Love
Lake Zell: The frozen lake in winter adds to the charm, offering activities such as ice skating and curling.
Historical charm: The village boasts traditional Austrian Buildings, including a charming 11th–century church.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The town caters to families with kid-friendly activities, ski schools, and gentle slopes.
Tempting shops, good restaurants, and lively bars.
Zell am See, has a friendly relaxed vibe, making it an ideal base for both skiing and non-skiing activities.
I always carry a DAY BACKPACK when skiing, as well as a WATER BOTTLE. It keeps me hydrated all day long on the slopes.
*Handy Tip*
Don’t forget your GOPRO or your INSTA360 for all those action shots of family and friends.
Ski Area and Passes.
Zell am See is part of the SKI ALPIN CARD network, granting access to the three major ski areas: Zell am See-Schmitten hohe, Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, and Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fiberbrunn. Together, these areas offer over 400 kilometres of slopes.
A Quick Look at the Ski Area:
- Schmittenhole
- Perfect for all ski levels, with stunning views of Lake Zell.
- Features open pistes for beginners and challenging black runs for experts.
- Home to fun slopes and a family park for younger skiers.
- Kitzsteinhorn glacier
- A snow-sure area with guaranteed skiing from October to early summer.
- Includes high-altitude runs and excellent freeride terrain.
- Ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers.
- Saalbach-Hinterglemm-leogang-Fieberbrunn
- Austria’s largest ski area, known as the ‘Ski Circus”Features a mix of long cruising runs, freestyle parks, and off-piste options.
Ski Pass Options
Ski ALPIN Card: Provides access to all three areas.
Zell am See-Kaprun Lift Pass: Covers Schmittenhohe and Kitzsteinhorn Glacier.
Beginner and Local Passes: Available for smaller areas like Maiskogel, ideal for beginners.
Prices vary by Duration and season, with discounts for children, families, and groups.
Wear a SKI-HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks and don’t forget your SKI-GOGGLES for Zell am See.
Wear to Stay in Zell am See.
Luxury Hotels
- Grand Hotel Zell am See: This is where we stayed on our last visit, we did spoil ourselves with this stunning lakeside hotel.
- Hotel Salzburgerhof: A five-star property known for its exceptional service, wellness offerings, and fine dining.
- Tauren Spa Zell am See-Kaprun: A modern spa resort with ski shuttle service and luxurious amenities.
Mid-Range.
- Hotel Stadt Wein: A family-run hotel offering cosy rooms and easy access to the slopes.
- Hotel Gruner Baum: Centrally located with comfortable accommodation and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Hotel Feinschmeck: Offers a combination of modern convenience and traditional Austrian charm.
Budget-Friendly
Pension Andrea: A friendly guesthouse with affordable rate and a central location.
JUFA Hotel Kaprun: A great option for families and groups, located near the lifts.
Camping Zell am See: For adventurous travellers, this campsite offers winter facilities.
Where to Eat
Mountain Dining:
Berghotel Schmittenhohe: known for its hearty alpine and panoramic views and meals.
AreitAlm: A cosy mountain hut offering local specialities and warm drink.
Gipfel Restaurant: Located at the summit of the Kitzteinhorn Glacier diming.
In-Town Restaurants
Kupferkessel; A Family-Friendly restaurant known for its Pizza’s and Austrian dishes.
Dorfstadl: A rustic eatery serving traditional Styrian cuisine and schnitzels.
Steinerwirt 1493: Combines contemporary flair with authentic Austrian recipes.
Apres-Ski and Bars
Zell am See’s apres-ski scene is lively with an abundance of bars and nightspots.
Crazy Daisy: Popular spot for cocktails and live music.
Ginhous: Kneown for its extensive gin selections and vibrant atmosphere.
Castle Bar: Located in the Grand Hotel, offering a more sophisticated apres experience
How to Get to Zell am See
Zell am See is easily accessible by plane, train, car, and bus, making it convenient for visitors from across Europe and beyond.
By Plane:
The closest airports are:
Salzburg Airport: 80 Kilometres (1.5 hours by car
Munich Airport: 200 Kilometres (2.5 hours by car)
SHUTTLE services and CAR RENTALS are available from both airports.
Compare and book your flights here.
BY TRAIN:
Zell am see has its own train station, offering excellent rail connections.
Direct trains run from Salzburg and Innsbruck.
International trains connect Zell am See to Munich and other European cities.
You can BOOK YOUR TRAIN HERE.
BY CAR:
Zell am See is well connected by Austria’s efficient road network
From Salzburg: Take the A10 motorway, followed by regional roads to Zell am See.
Ample parking is available in town and near lifts.
For more convenience and flexibility, compare these car rental rates, DISCOVER CARS or RENTAL CARS.com
Transfer with Ski Lifts.
Getting to Austria’s best ski resorts couldn’t be easier than with ski lifts, offering both airport and train station transfers. Private transfers are a popular choice, as you will not be sharing with others or waiting at the airport, as your driver will be waiting for you.
BY BUS:
Regional buses operate between Zell am See, nearby ski areas, and major cities, offering an affordable alternative to private transfers.
Resort Activities
Zell am See is as appealing off the slopes as it is on them, with plenty of activities for non-skiers or those seeking a break from Skiing.
Ice Skating: Lake Zell freezes in winter, creating a natural ice-skating rink.
Snowshoeing: Explore the scenic trails around the resort.
Spa and Wellness: Relax in luxury spas like the TAUERN SPA.
Tobogganing: Fun for all ages, with illuminated runs for night sledding.
Winter Hiking: Enjoy breath taking views on well-maintained trails.
Handy Tip
Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.
Zell am See offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, diverse skiing opportunities, and traditional alpine charm. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes of Schmittenhohe, enjoying the snow-sure terrain of the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, or enjoying a meal at a traditional mountain hut, Zell am See provides an unforgettable alpine experience. Its excellent accommodations, vibrant dining scenes, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a top choice for a winter getaway.
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