Things To Do In Zell am See
Zell am See-Kaprun, nestled amidst the breathtaking fusion of glaciers, mountains, and Lake Zell, epitomizes a remarkable holiday destination. Situated at the base of the Schmittenhöhe mountain and along the lakeshores, the town of Zell am See has evolved from a modest market into a prominent tourist resort over the years. The town’s growth, catalyzed by the completion of the railway line in 1875, positioned it as a jewel of enjoyment, drawing visitors to the harmonious blend of mountain and lake experiences.
Originally known as “Zelle im Pinzgau,” Zell am See quickly expanded along the banks of Lake Zell, becoming a pivotal hub in the region. Since 1810, it has been recognized as “Zell am See” and presently hosts a population of around 10,000 people, welcoming a surge of temporary residents during the bustling summer and winter tourist seasons.
Winter, with its allure of skiing vacations, has historically been a major draw to Zell am See. However, the town’s pristine air and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Zell, renowned for their drinking water quality, have increasingly attracted summer visitors. Zell am See stands on the lake’s shores, offering an array of summer activities, including swimming beaches, open-air pools, and lakeside promenades, providing an escape from ordinary life.
The iconic Schmittenhöhebahn, a few minutes’ walk from the lake, transports visitors uphill to Zell’s local mountain, the Schmittenhöhe. The Schmittenhöhe slopes offer a year-round paradise for enthusiasts, featuring skiing opportunities in winter and a plethora of mountain and hiking activities in the summer. The panoramic view from the Schmittenhöhe, encompassing the town, Lake Zell, and over 30 towering three-thousand-meter-high mountains, captivates visitors and stands as a compelling reason for recurring vacations.
Zell am See isn’t merely a natural haven; it boasts urban flair, sophisticated shopping, and culinary pleasures. The town’s historic houses, beautifully renovated and well-maintained, narrate the lengthy history, inviting exploration. Strolling through the town unveils a treasure trove of shopping delights, from elegant boutiques to classic souvenir shops, offering a fusion of tradition and new trends.
Gastronomic adventures in Zell am See are equally enticing, blending internationally inspired meals with traditional recipes and local ingredients. Modern restaurants, exuding down-to-earth friendliness, provide a culinary journey that seamlessly combines tradition and innovation. The town’s charming mountain cabins and fashionable pubs add the perfect finishing touch to a day filled with exploration and delight. Zell am See-Kaprun emerges not just as a destination but as an immersive experience where nature, history, and modernity harmonize to create an unforgettable holiday retreat.
Outdoor Activities
Zell am See is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers a wide range of activities and adventures for all seasons and preferences. You can enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of the region, and challenge yourself with different sports and hobbies. Here are some of the best outdoor activities that you can try in Zell am See.
Summer Activities
In the summer, Zell am See offers a variety of activities to make the most of the warm weather and the stunning nature. Some of the most popular summer activities in Zell am See are:
- Hiking and Trekking: Zell am See has over 400 km of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. You can explore the diverse landscapes of the region, from lush forests and meadows to rocky peaks and glaciers. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the mountains from various lookout points and huts. Some of the most popular hiking destinations in Zell am See are the Schmittenhöhe, the Kitzsteinhorn, the Maiskogel, and the Hohe Tauern National Park.
- Water Sports: Zell am See is a great place to enjoy water sports, thanks to its crystal-clear lake and its proximity to the Salzach and Saalach rivers. You can choose from a variety of water activities, such as swimming, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and fishing. You can also take a boat trip on the lake and admire the scenery from a different perspective.
- Cycling and Mountain Biking: Zell am See has over 240 km of cycling and mountain biking routes, suitable for all levels of cyclists. You can ride along the lake shore, through the countryside, or up the mountains. You can also join guided tours or rent bikes and equipment from local shops. Some of the most popular cycling and mountain biking destinations in Zell am See are the Zeller See Rundweg, the Tauern Cycle Path, the Pinzgau Cycle Path, and the Kitzsteinhorn Bike Park.
- Golfing: Zell am See is a golfer’s dream, with two 18-hole golf courses and several other golf facilities in the vicinity. The Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Club is one of the most scenic golf courses in Austria, with views of the lake and the mountains. The golf club also hosts tournaments and events throughout the year. The Golfclub Urslautal is another golf course near Zell am See, located in a valley surrounded by alpine meadows and forests.
- Adventure Sports: Zell am See is also a destination for adventure seekers, who can try out various thrilling sports and activities. Some of the most exciting adventure sports in Zell am See are paragliding, hang gliding, skydiving, bungee jumping, zip lining, and climbing. You can also experience the feeling of flying in a wind tunnel or a flight simulator at the Fly Center Zell am See.
Winter Activities
In the winter, Zell am See transforms into a snowy wonderland, with plenty of activities to enjoy the cold weather and the snowy slopes. Some of the most popular winter activities in Zell am See are:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Zell am See is a ski resort with access to three ski areas: the Schmittenhöhe, the Kitzsteinhorn, and the Maiskogel. Together, they offer over 400 km of ski slopes, catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. You can also find ski schools, ski rentals, ski lifts, and ski buses in the town. Zell am See is also part of the Ski Alpin Card, which gives you access to more than 400 km of ski slopes in the region, including the Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn and the Skicircus ski areas.
- Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking: Zell am See also has over 40 km of snowshoeing and winter hiking trails, where you can explore the snowy landscapes and enjoy the fresh air. You can also join guided tours or rent snowshoes and equipment from local shops. Some of the most popular snowshoeing and winter hiking destinations in Zell am See are the Schüttdorf, the Thumersbach, the Schmittenhöhe, and the Kitzsteinhorn.
- Ice Skating and Ice Hockey: Zell am See has several ice skating and ice hockey facilities, where you can have fun on the ice. You can skate on the frozen lake, on the indoor ice rink, or on the outdoor ice rink at the Leisure Center Zell am See. You can also watch or join an ice hockey game at the Ice Arena Zell am See, where the local team, the EK Zeller Eisbären, plays.
- Winter Events and Festivals: Zell am See hosts many events and festivals in the winter, celebrating the season and the local culture. Some of the most popular winter events and festivals in Zell am See are the Advent Market, the New Year’s Eve Fireworks, the Balloon Festival, the Ice Camp, and the White Pearl Mountain Days.
- Après-Ski and Nightlife: Zell am See has a lively après-ski and nightlife scene, with many bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can enjoy a drink, a snack, or a meal after a day on the slopes, or party until late at night. Some of the most popular après-ski and nightlife venues in Zell am See are the Crazy Daisy, the Ginhouse, the Villa Crazy Daisy, the Diele, and the K1 Club.
Natural Attractions
Lake Zell
Lake Zell is the heart and soul of Zell am See, providing a scenic backdrop for the town and a source of recreation and relaxation for locals and tourists alike. The lake is 4 km long and 1.5 km wide, and has a depth of up to 68 meters. The water is crystal clear and has a pleasant temperature of around 23°C in the summer.
There are many ways to enjoy Lake Zell, whether you want to swim, boat, fish, or just admire the view. You can rent a pedal boat, a rowboat, a kayak, or a stand-up paddle board and explore the lake at your own pace. You can also join a guided boat tour and learn more about the history and nature of the lake. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try water skiing, wakeboarding, or parasailing and get a thrilling perspective of the lake from above. For a more relaxing experience, you can sunbathe on the beach, picnic on the shore, or stroll along the promenade and watch the swans and ducks.
One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Lake Zell is to take in the panoramic views from the surrounding mountains. You can take a cable car or a bus to the top of Schmittenhöhe, the local mountain of Zell am See, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the lake and the Alps. You can also hike or bike along the many trails that lead to the lake and discover hidden coves and bays. Alternatively, you can take a train or a car to the nearby town of Kaprun and visit the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and the Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs, which offer stunning views of the lake and the valley.
Schmittenhöhe
Schmittenhöhe is the local mountain of Zell am See, rising to an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and skiers, as it offers a variety of trails and slopes for all levels of difficulty and experience.
Schmittenhöhe has over 25 hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, covering a total distance of 150 km. You can choose from different themes and routes, such as the Panorama Trail, the Art Trail, the Family Trail, or the Summit Trail. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of the lake and the mountains, encounter wildlife and plants, and visit historical and cultural sites. You can also stop at one of the many huts and restaurants on the mountain and taste the local cuisine and specialties.
Schmittenhöhe is one of the most popular ski resorts in Austria, offering 77 km of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. You can find slopes for beginners, intermediates, and experts, as well as fun parks, half-pipes, and cross-country tracks. You can also try night skiing, ski touring, or snowshoeing and experience the mountain in a different way. Schmittenhöhe has a modern ski lift system that can transport up to 25,000 people per hour, ensuring a comfortable and convenient access to the slopes. The ski season runs from December to April, and you can rent or buy ski equipment and clothing at the shops and rental stations on the mountain.
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier is a glacier and a mountain in the Hohe Tauern National Park, reaching 3,203 m above sea level. The glacier is a natural wonder and a year-round attraction, offering a unique experience of snow and ice. You can reach the glacier by cable car, by hiking, or by skiing. Some of the things you can do on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier are:
- Glacier Excursions: You can join a guided tour of the glacier, where you can learn about its history, geology, and ecology. You can also visit the Gipfelwelt 3000, a visitor center and an observation platform at the summit of the glacier, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps. You can also explore the Ice Arena, a snow playground where you can slide, sled, and play on the ice.
- Summer Skiing: You can ski and snowboard on the glacier in the summer, where you can find 41 km of ski slopes and three snow parks. You can also find ski schools, ski rentals, ski lifts, and ski buses on the glacier. Kitzsteinhorn Glacier is a popular destination for professional and amateur skiers and snowboarders, who want to practice their skills and enjoy the snow in the summer.
Cultural Landmarks
Zell am See has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, dating back to the Roman times. You can find many historical and architectural landmarks in the town and the surrounding area, such as castles, churches, museums, and monuments. Here are some of the most notable cultural landmarks that you can visit in Zell am See.
Zell am See Castle
Zell am See Castle is a medieval fortress that stands on a hill overlooking the town and the lake. It was built in the 13th century by the Counts of Lechsgemünd, who ruled over the region until the 15th century. The castle was later owned by various noble families, such as the Counts of Ortenburg, the Lords of Rosenberg, and the Counts of Kuenburg. The castle was renovated and expanded several times over the centuries, and today it serves as a museum and a cultural center.
Zell am See Castle has a long and fascinating history, marked by wars, fires, sieges, and changes of ownership. The castle was originally built as a defensive structure, with a moat, a drawbridge, and a tower. It was also used as a residence, a court, and a prison. The castle witnessed many historical events, such as the Peasants’ War in the 16th century, the Napoleonic Wars in the 19th century, and the World Wars in the 20th century. The castle was damaged and restored several times, and in 1975 it was acquired by the town of Zell am See, which turned it into a museum and a cultural center.
You can visit Zell am See Castle and learn more about its history and architecture by joining a guided tour. The tours are available in different languages and last about an hour. You can see the different rooms and halls of the castle, such as the chapel, the knights’ hall, the dungeon, and the tower. You can also see the exhibits and displays that showcase the history and culture of Zell am See and the region, such as weapons, armor, paintings, coins, and documents. The tours are offered daily from May to October, and on weekends and holidays from November to April. You can also book a private tour or a group tour in advance.
St. Hippolyt Parish Church
St. Hippolyt Parish Church is a Roman Catholic church that stands in the center of Zell am See, next to the town hall. It is one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the region, and a symbol of the town’s religious and artistic heritage.
St. Hippolyt Parish Church was built in the 12th century, and was later enlarged and renovated in the Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo styles. The church has a distinctive tower that rises to 36 meters and has a pyramidal roof. The tower houses a carillon that plays melodies every hour. The church also has a nave, a choir, a transept, and a sacristy. The interior of the church is decorated with frescoes, paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows that depict various scenes and figures from the Bible and the history of the church.
St. Hippolyt Parish Church is dedicated to St. Hippolytus, a Roman soldier and martyr who was killed for his faith in the 3rd century. The church also honors other saints, such as St. Catherine, St. Florian, and St. Sebastian. The church is a place of worship and prayer for the local community and the visitors, and hosts regular masses and services. The church also organizes various religious and cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.
Events and Festivals
Zell am See hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its culture, traditions, and lifestyle. You can find events and festivals for all tastes and interests, such as music, sports, art, and gastronomy. Here are some of the most popular events and festivals that you can attend in Zell am See.
Zeller Seezauber
Zeller Seezauber is a spectacular light and sound show that takes place on Lake Zell every summer. The show features colorful lasers, water fountains, fireworks, and music that create a magical atmosphere on the lake. The show is free of charge and can be seen from the promenade, the beach, or the boat.
Zeller Seezauber takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from May to October, starting at 10 pm. The show lasts for about 20 minutes and has different themes and songs each time. Some of the themes include “Rock Around the Clock”, “The Sound of Music”, “Mamma Mia”, and “The Lion King”.
Zeller Seezauber is a highlight of the summer season in Zell am See, attracting thousands of visitors and locals every year. The show is a unique and memorable experience that combines art, technology, and nature. The show is also a great opportunity to enjoy the nightlife of Zell am See, as there are many bars, cafes, and restaurants near the lake that are open until late. You can also join a boat cruise and watch the show from the water, or rent a pedal boat and get closer to the action.
Zell am See-Kaprun Ironman
Zell am See-Kaprun Ironman is a triathlon event that takes place every August in Zell am See and Kaprun. It is part of the Ironman 70.3 series, which consists of a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km bike, and a 21.1 km run. The event attracts thousands of athletes and spectators from all over the world, who come to enjoy the sport and the scenery.
Zell am See-Kaprun Ironman starts with a swim in Lake Zell, where the participants have to complete two laps of 950 meters each. The swim is followed by a bike ride that takes the participants through the countryside and the mountains, passing by the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and the Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs. The bike course has a total elevation gain of 1,200 meters and includes some challenging climbs and descents. The bike ride ends at the transition area in Zell am See, where the participants switch to the run. The run course is a flat and fast loop around the lake and the town, with four laps of 5.3 km each. The run course offers spectacular views of the lake and the Schmittenhöhe, and is lined with cheering crowds and music. The finish line is located at the Ferry Porsche Congress Center, where the participants are greeted with medals, refreshments, and celebrations.
Zell am See-Kaprun Ironman is a great event to watch and support, as it offers many opportunities to see the athletes in action and enjoy the atmosphere. You can find the best spots to watch the swim, the bike, and the run on the official website of the event, which also provides a map and a timetable of the race. You can also download the Ironman Tracker app, which allows you to track the progress and the results of the participants. You can also join the Ironman Village, which is located at the Ferry Porsche Congress Center, and offers various activities and services for the spectators, such as a merchandise shop, a food court, a kids’ zone, and a live broadcast of the race. You can also attend the opening ceremony, the awards ceremony, and the after-party, which are held at the same venue.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Zell am See is a family-friendly destination, as it offers many attractions and activities that are suitable and fun for children and adults alike. You can find attractions and activities that are educational, entertaining, and adventurous, and that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best family-friendly attractions that you can visit in Zell am See.
Wildpark Ferleiten
Wildpark Ferleiten is a wildlife park that is located in the valley of Ferleiten, about 20 km from Zell am See. It is home to more than 200 animals that live in natural and spacious enclosures, such as deer, bears, wolves, lynxes, foxes, and birds. You can walk along the 1.5 km trail that leads you through the park and observe the animals in their habitats. You can also feed some of the animals with special food that is available at the entrance.
Wildpark Ferleiten is a great place to learn more about the wildlife of the region and to have close encounters with the animals. You can see the animals from different perspectives, such as from observation platforms, bridges, or windows. You can also watch the animals being fed by the staff at certain times of the day, and learn more about their behavior and characteristics. You can also interact with some of the animals, such as the goats, the rabbits, and the ponies, and pet them and feed them by hand.
Wildpark Ferleiten is not only a wildlife park, but also a family park, as it offers many activities and facilities for the whole family. You can find a large playground that has slides, swings, climbing frames, and trampolines, as well as a mini golf course, a go-kart track, and a bouncy castle. You can also find a picnic area, a barbecue area, and a restaurant that serves snacks and drinks. You can also rent a stroller or a wagon for your children, and buy souvenirs and gifts at the shop. Wildpark Ferleiten is open from May to November, and the admission fee is 8 euros for adults and 4 euros for children.
Maisflitzer Alpine Coaster
Maisflitzer Alpine Coaster is a roller coaster that is located on the Maiskogel mountain, about 5 km from Zell am See. It is the first and only alpine coaster in the region, and offers a thrilling and fun ride for all ages. The coaster has a length of 1.3 km and a height of 80 meters, and reaches speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Maisflitzer Alpine Coaster is a modern and safe coaster that has two-person sleds that are equipped with seat belts and brakes. The coaster starts at the Maiskogel Valley Station, where you can board the sled and get ready for the ride. The coaster then takes you up the mountain on a cable lift, where you can enjoy the views of the valley and the lake. The coaster then releases you from the lift and lets you glide down the mountain on a steel track, which has twists, turns, jumps, and waves. You can control the speed of the sled with the brakes, and choose how fast or slow you want to go.
Maisflitzer Alpine Coaster is a fun and exciting attraction that is suitable for all ages and abilities. You can ride the coaster alone or with a partner, and you can choose from different levels of difficulty and speed. The coaster is also open all year round, and offers a different experience depending on the season and the weather. You can ride the coaster in the summer and enjoy the greenery and the sunshine, or in the winter and enjoy the snow and the ice. You can also ride the coaster at night and enjoy the lights and the stars. The coaster is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, and the ticket price is 12 euros for adults and 8 euros for children.
Shopping and Dining
Zell am See is a great place to shop, as it offers a variety of shops and markets that sell local and international products and goods. You can find shops and markets that cater to different tastes and budgets, such as fashion, souvenirs, food, and crafts. Here are some of the best shopping districts that you can visit in Zell am See.
Zell am See Pedestrian Zone
Zell am See Pedestrian Zone is the main shopping area in the town, located in the historic center. It is a car-free zone that stretches along the main street, Brucker Bundesstrasse, and the side streets. You can find many shops and boutiques that sell clothing, accessories, jewelry, sports equipment, books, and more. You can also find cafes and restaurants that serve local and international cuisine and drinks. You can enjoy the atmosphere and the architecture of the town, and watch the street performers and artists that entertain the visitors.
Lakeside Dining
Lakeside Dining is a dining experience that is unique to Zell am See, where you can savor the culinary delights of the town while enjoying the views of the lake and the mountains. You can find many cafes, restaurants, and bars on the lake shore, where you can taste the local specialties, such as the Pinzgauer cheese, the Zeller fish, and the Salzburger Nockerl, as well as international cuisines, such as Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean. You can also enjoy a drink, a snack, or a dessert, while watching the sunset or the stars over the lake.
Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ Markets are weekly markets that take place in different locations in Zell am See and Kaprun. They are a great way to buy fresh and organic produce and goods from the local farmers and vendors, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, honey, and jam. You can also find handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the culture and traditions of the region, such as woodcarvings, pottery, and candles.
Farmers’ Markets are held on different days and times, depending on the season and the location. You can find the schedule and the location of the markets on the official website of Zell am See-Kaprun, or on the flyers and posters that are distributed in the town. Some of the most popular markets are:
- Zell am See Market: every Friday from 8 am to 12 pm, at the town square
- Kaprun Market: every Thursday from 8 am to 12 pm, at the Kaprun Center
- Schüttdorf Market: every Wednesday from 8 am to 12 pm, at the Schüttdorf Center
- Thumersbach Market: every Tuesday from 8 am to 12 pm, at the Thumersbach Center
