Nestled in the Austrian Alps, this resort town draws skiers in winter and hikers in summer. Its pedestrian center and lakeside promenade offer scenic views and local cuisine.
Zell am See, a town in Austria's Salzburg state, sits on the shores of Lake Zell, surrounded by the Kitzbühel Alps. This alpine destination attracts visitors year-round with its clear lake, ski slopes on Schmittenhöhe mountain, and proximity to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. You can swim in Lake Zell, ski down the Trassabfahrt slope, or explore St. Hippolyte's Church in the town center. Zell am See appeals to those who enjoy skiing and water sports as well as those interested in local history and culture.
Lake Zell: Summer Activities
Lake Zell is central to the town's summer activities. The lake's clear, drinkable water is perfect for swimming or trying various water sports. You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or even try waterskiing. For a more relaxed experience, take a boat tour on the MS Schmittenhöhe, which provides wide views of the surrounding mountains. The lakeside promenade is ideal for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, with numerous cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a meal overlooking the water.
Winter Sports on Schmittenhöhe
In winter, Zell am See transforms into an active ski resort with 138 km of slopes. The Schmittenhöhe mountain, rising to 1,965 meters, is the main ski area. It has pistes for all skill levels, including the challenging Trassabfahrt with a 75% incline gradient. The recently reopened Tannwaldabfahrt, a ski-racing piste in the 1930s, adds a historical element to your skiing experience. Even if you don't ski, you can take the Porsche Design gondola up the mountain for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Exploring the Town Center
Zell am See's town center retains many old buildings and narrow streets. The St. Hippolyte's Church, built in a Romanesque style, is the oldest structure in the Pinzgau region. Its 36-meter tower is visible throughout the town. As you walk through the streets, you'll notice the architectural details of the old houses. The pedestrian zone has shops ranging from boutiques to traditional souvenir stores, where you can find local crafts and products.
Local and International Cuisine
The town's restaurants offer both Austrian cuisine and international dishes. For authentic local food, visit Kupferkessel or Traubenstuberl. These restaurants serve hearty regional specialties that are satisfying after a day on the slopes or hiking trails. If you're in the mood for Italian, Giuseppe's is known for its food. For a meal with a view, consider visiting one of the mountain huts like Glocknerhaus or Kettingalm, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas while you eat.
Getting There and Around
Zell am See is well-connected by both road and rail. The nearest major airport is in Salzburg, about 80 km away. From there, you can take a direct train to Zell am See, which takes about 90 minutes. Once in town, you'll find that most attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the wider region, take advantage of the free mobility card, which gives you access to public transport throughout the Pinzgau area, including local trains and buses.
Best Time to Visit
Zell am See is open to visitors year-round, with each season offering different experiences. For winter sports, visit between December and April when the ski slopes are covered in snow. Summer, from June to September, is suitable for lake activities and hiking. If you prefer milder weather and fewer people, consider visiting in May or October. Keep in mind that some attractions and lifts may have limited operations during these times.
