Winter Activities In Zell am See
Zell am See is a picturesque town in the Austrian Alps, surrounded by mountains and a stunning lake. It is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, as well as for those who enjoy the charm and beauty of a winter wonderland.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Zell am See is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, as it offers access to two ski areas: Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn. Both ski areas have a variety of slopes for all levels of difficulty, as well as modern lifts and facilities.
Schmittenhöhe Ski Area
Schmittenhöhe is the local mountain of Zell am See, and it boasts 77 km of ski runs and 28 lifts. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding peaks. Schmittenhöhe has slopes for beginners, intermediates, and experts, as well as a fun park for freestylers. You can also try night skiing on selected evenings, or take a ski tour on the marked routes.
Schmittenhöhe has a variety of ski runs and trails for different preferences and abilities. Some of the highlights include:
- The Trass run, which is the longest and steepest run on the mountain, with a length of 4 km and a gradient of up to 70%.
- The Standard run, which is a classic downhill run that follows the original route of the first ski race in Zell am See in 1927.
- The Schmitten run, which is a scenic run that offers views of the lake and the town, as well as a tunnel and a bridge.
- The Family run, which is a gentle and wide run that is ideal for beginners and families.
- The Panorama run, which is a sunny and easy run that leads to the valley station of the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car.
If you want to learn or improve your skiing or snowboarding skills, you can enroll in one of the ski schools in Zell am See. There are several ski schools that offer professional instruction and guidance for all ages and levels. You can choose from group or private lessons, as well as special courses for children, women, or seniors. Some of the ski schools in Zell am See are:
- Ski School Zell am See, which is the oldest and largest ski school in the region, with over 150 instructors and a wide range of courses and programs.
- Ski School Outdo, which is a modern and innovative ski school that focuses on individual coaching and personal attention.
- Ski School Sport Alpin, which is a family-run ski school that offers quality teaching and a friendly atmosphere.
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
Kitzsteinhorn is a glacier ski area that is located about 15 km from Zell am See, and it is accessible by a free ski bus. Kitzsteinhorn offers year-round skiing and snowboarding, as well as spectacular views of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Kitzsteinhorn has 41 km of ski runs and 17 lifts, as well as three snow parks and a superpipe.
Glacier skiing is a unique and exhilarating experience that allows you to enjoy the snow and the sun at high altitudes. Kitzsteinhorn has slopes for all levels of difficulty, from easy to challenging. Some of the highlights include:
- The Black Mamba, which is a steep and narrow run that has a gradient of up to 63% and a length of 1 km.
- The Kristall, which is a long and varied run that leads from the summit station to the Langwiedboden station, with a drop of 900 m and a length of 6 km.
- The Gletscherjet, which is a fast and fun run that follows the route of the Gletscherjet cable car, with a drop of 750 m and a length of 4 km.
Kitzsteinhorn is a paradise for freestylers, as it has three snow parks and a superpipe that cater to different styles and levels. The snow parks are:
- The Central Park, which is the main park that has a variety of features, such as jumps, rails, boxes, and jibs.
- The Easy Park, which is a beginner-friendly park that has easy and fun features, such as small jumps, rollers, and slides.
- The South Central Park, which is a park that is open in spring and autumn, and it has medium and large features, such as kickers, hips, and spines.
The superpipe is a 160 m long and 6.6 m high halfpipe that is located next to the Central Park, and it is suitable for advanced riders who want to practice their tricks and airs.
Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking
Snowshoeing and winter hiking are great ways to explore the nature and scenery of Zell am See in a peaceful and relaxing way. You can walk on the snow-covered trails and paths, and enjoy the views of the lake, the mountains, and the forests. Zell am See has several options for snowshoeing and winter hiking, depending on your preference and ability.
Scenic Winter Trails
Zell am See has a network of scenic winter trails that are groomed and marked for your convenience and safety. You can choose from different lengths and difficulties, as well as different themes and attractions. Some of the winter trails in Zell am See are:
- The Lake Promenade Trail, which is a flat and easy trail that follows the shore of the lake, and offers views of the town and the Schmittenhöhe mountain.
- The Schüttdorf Trail, which is a moderate and varied trail that leads from the Schüttdorf district to the Areitbahn cable car, and passes by the golf course and the wildlife park.
- The Thumersbach Trail, which is a challenging and steep trail that climbs from the Thumersbach district to the Enzianhütte mountain hut, and offers panoramic views of the lake and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
Recommended Routes
If you want to experience the best of Zell am See’s winter landscape, you can follow one of the recommended routes that combine snowshoeing and winter hiking. These routes are designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of the region, as well as to provide some fun and adventure. Some of the recommended routes are:
- The Schmitten Circuit, which is a circular route that starts and ends at the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car, and covers the Schmittenhöhe ski area. You can snowshoe on the slopes and hike on the trails, and enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.
- The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Tour, which is a guided tour that starts and ends at the Kitzsteinhorn cable car, and covers the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. You can snowshoe on the glacier and hike on the summit, and enjoy the views of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
- The Lake Zell Round Trip, which is a round trip that starts and ends at the Zell am See train station, and covers the lake and the town. You can hike on the lake promenade and snowshoe on the frozen lake, and enjoy the views of the town and the mountains.
Ice Skating and Ice Hockey
Ice skating and ice hockey are fun and exciting winter activities that you can enjoy in Zell am See. You can glide on the ice and show off your skills, or join a game and compete with others. Zell am See has several options for ice skating and ice hockey, both indoors and outdoors.
Zell am See Ice Rink
Zell am See Ice Rink is an indoor ice rink that is located in the town center, near the lake promenade. It is open from October to March, and it offers public skating sessions, ice hockey facilities, and ice skating lessons. You can rent skates and helmets from the ice rink, or bring your own. The ice rink also has a snack bar and a lounge area, where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Public Skating Sessions
Public skating sessions are open to everyone who wants to have fun on the ice, regardless of age or ability. You can skate at your own pace, or join the music and games that are organized by the staff. The public skating sessions are usually held from Monday to Friday, from 2 pm to 4 pm, and from 8 pm to 10 pm. On weekends and holidays, the sessions are from 10 am to 12 pm, and from 2 pm to 4 pm. The admission fee is 5 euros for adults, and 3 euros for children.
Ice Hockey Facilities
Ice hockey facilities are available for those who want to play or watch ice hockey in Zell am See. You can join one of the ice hockey teams that train and compete at the ice rink, or rent the ice rink for your own game. You can also watch the local ice hockey club, the Zeller Eisbären, play their home games at the ice rink. The ice hockey facilities are usually reserved from Monday to Friday, from 4 pm to 8 pm. The rental fee is 150 euros per hour, and the entrance fee for the games is 10 euros for adults, and 5 euros for children.
Natural Ice Skating
Natural ice skating is a unique and magical experience that allows you to skate on the clear and smooth ice of the lake Zell. You can enjoy the views of the town and the mountains, as well as the wildlife and the plants that are visible under the ice. You can rent skates and helmets from the lake shore, or bring your own. The rental fee is 5 euros for adults, and 3 euros for children.
Winter Events and Festivals
Zell am See is a lively and festive town that hosts many winter events and festivals throughout the season. You can enjoy the atmosphere and the entertainment, as well as the local culture and traditions. Zell am See has something for everyone, from Christmas markets to winter sports competitions.
Zell am See Christmas Market
Zell am See Christmas Market is a charming and cozy market that is held in the town center, near the lake promenade. It is open from late November to late December, and it offers a festive atmosphere and a variety of vendor stalls and entertainment. You can browse and buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicacies, such as candles, ornaments, wood carvings, and mulled wine. You can also enjoy live music, performances, and activities, such as choirs, bands, puppet shows, and carousel rides.
Zell am See Christmas Market is a great place to experience the festive atmosphere and the spirit of the season. You can admire the decorations and the lights, as well as the giant Christmas tree and the nativity scene. You can also join the celebrations and the traditions, such as the Advent calendar, the Krampus parade, and the Christmas Eve mass.
Zell am See Christmas Market has a variety of vendor stalls and entertainment that cater to different tastes and interests. You can find and buy unique and quality products, as well as enjoy the sights and sounds of the market. Some of the vendor stalls and entertainment that you can find at the market are:
- Handicrafts and Souvenirs, which sell handmade and original items, such as candles, ornaments, wood carvings, ceramics, and jewelry.
- Food and Drinks, which offer delicious and warming treats, such as mulled wine, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, sausages, and pastries.
- Live Music and Performances, which feature local and regional artists and groups, such as choirs, bands, soloists, and dancers.
- Activities and Rides, which provide fun and excitement for children and adults, such as puppet shows, carousel rides, ice skating, and sleigh rides.
Winter Sports Competitions
Zell am See is a host of many winter sports competitions that attract both participants and spectators from all over the world. You can watch or join some of the most thrilling and challenging events, such as skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, and ice sailing. Zell am See has a calendar of winter sports competitions that are held throughout the season, and they offer a chance to see some of the best athletes and teams in action.
Zell am See has a calendar of winter sports competitions that are held throughout the season, and they vary in terms of date, location, and discipline. You can check the official website of Zell am See Tourism Association for the latest and updated information, as well as the registration and ticket details. Some of the winter sports competitions that are held in Zell am See are:
- The Zell am See Night Slalom, which is a ski race that is held on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, under the floodlights, and it features some of the top skiers from Austria and abroad.
- The Kitzsteinhorn X-Treme, which is a freeride contest that is held on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, and it showcases some of the most daring and skilled snowboarders and skiers.
- The Zell am See Ice Hockey Cup, which is an ice hockey tournament that is held at the Zell am See Ice Rink, and it involves some of the best ice hockey clubs from Europe and North America.
- The Zell am See Ice Sailing and Kiting Championship, which is an ice sailing and kiting competition that is held on the lake Zell, and it features some of the fastest and most agile sailors and kiters.
Winter Family Fun
Zell am See is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of winter activities for children and adults. You can enjoy the snow and the ice, as well as the culture and the entertainment. Zell am See has something for everyone, from ski areas to snow parks. Here are some of the winter family fun options that you can enjoy in Zell am See.
Family-Friendly Ski Areas
Zell am See has two ski areas that are suitable for families, as they offer slopes and facilities that cater to children and beginners. You can find gentle and wide slopes, as well as ski schools and lessons, child care and playgrounds, and fun and adventure parks. You can also enjoy the views and the atmosphere, as well as the other attractions and activities that the ski areas have to offer. The family-friendly ski areas in Zell am See are:
- The Schmittenhöhe Ski Area, which has a family run, a family park, and a kids slope, as well as a dragon park, a fairy tale forest, and a kids club.
- The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Ski Area, which has a glacier plateau, a glacier park, and a glacier trail, as well as a cinema, a gallery, and an ice camp.
Child-Friendly Slopes
Child-friendly slopes are slopes that are designed and maintained for children and beginners, as they offer easy and safe conditions, as well as fun and educational features. You can find and access the child-friendly slopes from the ski areas, or from the town center. You can also rent or buy the equipment and the clothing that you need from the sports shops or the ski schools. Some of the child-friendly slopes in Zell am See are:
- The Family Run, which is a 1.5 km long and 40 m wide slope that is located on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, and it offers a gentle and sunny terrain, as well as a snowman, a tunnel, and a bridge.
- The Glacier Plateau, which is a 3 km long and 100 m wide slope that is located on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, and it offers a flat and smooth terrain, as well as a snow castle, a snow slide, and a snow igloo.
Ski Schools for Kids
Ski schools for kids are ski schools that offer professional and friendly instruction and guidance for children of all ages and levels. You can enroll your kids in one of the ski schools in Zell am See, and let them learn or improve their skiing or snowboarding skills, as well as have fun and make friends. You can choose from group or private lessons, as well as special courses and programs for kids. Some of the ski schools for kids in Zell am See are:
- The Ski School Zell am See, which has a kids club, a kids slope, and a kids park, as well as a mascot, a magic carpet, and a ski carousel.
- The Ski School Outdo, which has a kids land, a kids area, and a kids line, as well as a snowman, a snowcat, and a snow tube.
- The Ski School Sport Alpin, which has a kids garden, a kids corner, and a kids track, as well as a dragon, a fairy, and a clown.
Snowman Building and Tobogganing
Snowman building and tobogganing are fun and simple winter activities that you can enjoy with your family in Zell am See. You can build a snowman with the snow that you find on the slopes or on the lake, and decorate it with the items that you bring or find. You can also slide down the hills or the tracks with a toboggan, and enjoy the speed and the thrill. You can find and rent toboggans from the sports shops or the ski schools, or bring your own.
Zell am See has several spots that are suitable for snowman building and tobogganing, depending on your preference and ability. You can find and access the spots from the ski areas, or from the town center. You can also find and use the facilities and the services that the spots have to offer, such as restrooms, snack bars, and parking lots. Some of the recommended spots for snowman building and tobogganing in Zell am See are:
- The Lake Zell, which is a natural and scenic spot that offers a frozen and smooth surface, as well as a view of the town and the mountains. You can build a snowman on the lake, or slide on the ice with a toboggan.
- The Kohlschnait Toboggan Run, which is an artificial and adventurous spot that offers a 3 km long and 400 m high track, as well as a floodlight and a sound system. You can slide down the track with a toboggan, and enjoy the curves and the jumps.
- The Schüttdorf Toboggan Hill, which is a natural and cozy spot that offers a small and gentle hill, as well as a fireplace and a picnic area. You can build a snowman on the hill, or slide down the hill with a toboggan.
Winter Accommodation
Zell am See is a popular and attractive destination that offers a variety of winter accommodation options for visitors. You can find and book the accommodation that suits your needs and preferences, as well as your budget and location. Zell am See has something for everyone, from ski-in/ski-out lodging to hotels and chalets. Here are some of the winter accommodation options that you can enjoy in Zell am See.
Ski-in/Ski-out Lodging
Ski-in/ski-out lodging is the ideal option for those who want to have direct and easy access to the slopes and the lifts. You can ski or snowboard from your door to the ski area, and vice versa, without having to use any transportation or carry any equipment. You can also enjoy the views and the atmosphere of the mountain, as well as the convenience and the comfort of the lodging. Some of the ski-in/ski-out lodging options in Zell am See are:
- The Alpin & Seeresort by Alpen Apartments, which is a resort that offers modern and spacious apartments that are located on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, and have a ski-in/ski-out access, as well as a balcony and a sauna.
- The Hotel Schmittenhof, which is a hotel that offers cozy and elegant rooms that are located on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, and have a ski-in/ski-out access, as well as a restaurant and a spa.
- The Mountain Lake Resort, which is a resort that offers luxurious and stylish apartments that are located on the lake Zell, and have a ski-in/ski-out access, as well as a terrace and a pool.
Hotels and Chalets
Hotels and chalets are the most common and popular accommodation options in Zell am See, as they offer a variety of services and facilities, as well as a range of prices and locations. You can find and book the hotel or the chalet that meets your expectations and requirements, as well as your taste and style. You can also enjoy the amenities and the hospitality of the hotel or the chalet, as well as the proximity and the accessibility to the town and the ski areas. Some of the hotels and chalets in Zell am See are:
- The Grand Hotel Zell am See, which is a hotel that offers classic and elegant rooms that are located in the town center, near the lake promenade, and have a view of the lake and the mountains, as well as a restaurant and a casino.
- The Chalet Zell am See, which is a chalet that offers cozy and rustic rooms that are located in the town center, near the train station, and have a view of the town and the forest, as well as a kitchen and a fireplace.
- The Hotel Tirolerhof, which is a hotel that offers modern and comfortable rooms that are located in the town center, near the lake promenade, and have a view of the town and the garden, as well as a bar and a wellness area.
