Set by a picturesque lake, Zell am See is one of Austria's most cherished ski destinations. This medieval town offers a unique blend of diverse skiing terrains and ensures a snow-sure experience, thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Beyond the slopes, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Lake Zell and surrounding mountains, complemented by a lively nightlife. Its proximity to Salzburg and an array of off-slope activities make it an appealing choice for both skiing aficionados and those seeking a serene alpine getaway.
As one of the top Austrian ski resorts, Zell am See provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. We've put this practical guide together to make planning your Zell am See ski holiday a breeze. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or unwind after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
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Zell am See, Austria - overview
- Where is Zell am See?
- Zell am See the resort
- Zell am See ski area
- Skiing in Zell am See
- Zell am See ski season dates
- Zell am See snow history
- Restaurants in Zell am See
- Things to do in Zell am See
- Zell am See apres ski, and nightlife
- Zell am See resort map
- Practical information
Where is Zell am See?
Zell am See is situated beside Lake Zell in the Salzburg province of Austria.
For a detailed view of Zell am See's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Zell am See the resort
- Resort altitude: 750 m
- Resort permanent residents: 10213
Zell am See boasts a captivating, traffic-free medieval center, nestled on the shores of the scenic lake Zell. The town's rich history traces back to its origins as a station on a trade route, a role that evolved with the construction of the Giselabahn railway in the 19th century, subsequently positioning it as a coveted tourist destination. This evolution continued with the establishment of its first ski lift in the early 20th century, leading to its current status as a prominent ski resort comparable to renowned towns like Kitzbühel and Chamonix. Today, it welcomes visitors with a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. The town is characterized by its frescoed buildings, bustling waterfront promenade, and an array of shops, cafes, and vibrant bars. Regular music events, festivals, and a variety of activities beyond skiing make Zell am See a top choice for families and groups with varied interests. The pedestrianized heart of the town provides a serene escape, while the underground road tunnel efficiently manages traffic, ensuring a tranquil experience for visitors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Snowsure glacier skiing | Few challenges for expert skiers |
| Excellent ski schools making it a favourite for families and first-time skiers. | Snow quality can suffer on lower slopes during sunny days |
| Modern & efficient lift system | Possible morning queues for lifts |
| Town with a picture-postcard feel | Limited local slopes need to travel to other areas for more variety |
Here is how Zell am See looks like
Watch Zell am See on YouTube .
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Zell am See ski area
- Summit elevation: 3029 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 138 km (408 km - Zell am See/Kaprun)
- Vertical drop: 2279 m
- Ski lifts: 46
Zell am See is a key part of the immense
Zell am See-Kaprun ski area, which includes other world-renowned ski resorts such as Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Leogang, and Fieberbrunn, collectively offering over 400 km of pistes. Within this vast network, Zell am See itself boasts 138 km of ski runs covering 66 pistes (41% blues, 42% reds, and 17% blacks), all seamlessly connected by 46 lifts, and spread across three main sectors, including:
- Schmittenhöhe: This main sector in Zell am See offers diverse runs for all skill levels. It's known for its panoramic views of Lake Zell and the Alps, with runs suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike.
- Kaprun-Kitzsteinhorn: A haven for advanced skiers, this glacier area provides year-round skiing opportunities. The challenging slopes and a snow park here are a major draw for thrill-seekers.
- Maiskogel: Ideal for families and beginners, this sector features gentle, scenic slopes, making it a great place for first-time skiers or those looking for a relaxed skiing experience.
Skiing in Zell am See
Beginners
For those new to skiing, Zell am See provides the ideal setting. Two low-level beginner areas - Schüttdorf and Schmittental - offer the perfect start, complemented by the gentle Kids Slope. The City Xpress gondola and the interconnected region of Saalbach and Hinterglemm further make the progression from the nursery slope to the mountain effortlessly enjoyable.
Intermediates
For intermediate skiers the Schmittenhöhe mountain offers a diverse mix of tree-lined valley runs and open slopes, with the Sonnenalm and the Areit side providing especially delightful red runs. The interconnected Saalbach/Hinterglemm Ski Circus, which includes Fieberbrunn, Bernkogel, and Reiterkogel, is another treasure trove of blue and red runs.
Advanced
Seasoned skiers will find a good measure of challenge and thrill. Zell am See's Sonnenalm boasts off-piste opportunities and moguls, while runs such as Abfahrt 13 and 14 offer immaculate grooming and a worthy challenge. The nearby Zwölferkogel in Hinterglemm, with its World Cup black descent and the Schattberg North Descent in Saalbach, provide an exhilarating experience for those seeking tougher terrains.
Off-piste
While off-piste options within Zell am See are somewhat limited due to thickly wooded slopes, the offerings, especially around the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, are noteworthy. Here, skiers can immerse themselves in pristine powder snow surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Marked routes ensure safety, while the freeride information centre in Kaprun provides essential safety updates.
Glacier skiing
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier stands as a testament to high-altitude skiing, boasting a range from gentle blues to steep blacks. Apart from the ski delights, the Gletscher Terrain park beckons freestylers with its half pipes, jumps, and rails, while the Gipfelwelt 3000 summit station offers a panoramic coffee break.
Snowboarding
From the new fun park on Schmitten to the extensive blues and reds on Sonnenalm, snowboarders have lots to explore. Hinterglemm stands out for its floodlit nightpark, suitable for both novices and experts. The park offers an array of obstacles, making it a favorite among freestyle enthusiasts.
Zell am See ski season dates
The ski season in Zell am See for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 1st and run until April 4th. Obviously, opening and closing dates may vary slightly depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Zell am See this season, be sure to explore our Zell am See ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Zell am See snow history
Zell am See offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 19 cm and 25 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.1 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 21 cm but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Zell am See, with an impressive 33 cm of snow over 3.7 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm of snow over 1.9 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|
| December | 19 cm | 3.0 days |
| January | 25 cm | 3.4 days |
| February | 21 cm | 3.3 days |
| March | 16 cm | 3.0 days |
| April | 12 cm | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
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Restaurants in Zell am See
Mountain restaurants
- AreitLounge: Situated right on the slopes, and perfect for a mid-day break, here skiers can rejuvenate with a mix of classic mountain dishes and international cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Pinzgauer Hütte: Located at a convenient spot on the mountain, it's an ideal location for skiers to indulge in authentic regional dishes and homemade pastries.
- Blaickner's Sonnalm: Nestled on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, and with a spacious sun terrace that offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, it's a scenic spot to enjoy a meal or a drink.
Resort restaurants
- Kupferkessel: Located in the heart of the resort, Kupferkessel is known for its authentic Austrian cuisine.
- Salzburger Stuben: A blend of tradition and modernity, Salzburger Stuben serves Austrian classics with a contemporary twist. Its rustic charm and friendly service make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
- Restaurant Flo's: A gastronomic delight, Restaurant Flo's offers an international menu.
- Bio Burger: For those seeking healthier options, Bio Burger offers a range of organic burgers made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Villa Crazy Daisy: A lively venue known for its vibrant atmosphere, Villa Crazy Daisy serves a mix of Austrian and international dishes. Post-dinner, the venue transforms into a popular nightlife spot with live music and DJs.
- Erlhof: Situated a bit away from the hustle and bustle, Erlhof offers a tranquil dining experience by the lake. Specializing in fresh fish dishes and traditional Austrian cuisine, it's a haven for those looking for a serene dining ambiance.
- Hilberger's Beisl: Tucked away in a charming corner of the resort, Hilberger's Beisl offers a curated menu of Austrian delicacies.
Things to do in Zell am See
- Ice skating
- Sleigh rides
- Snowshoeing
- Snowpark
- Tobogganing
- Walking
- Leisure centre with pool
- Indoor tennis and squash centre (Kaprun)
- Floodlit cross-country
- Curling
- Snow-kiting
- Horse-riding
Zell am See apres ski and nightlife
Après ski bars
- Frenkie's: A lively spot, Frenkie's is known for its upbeat atmosphere and outdoor terrace.
- Villa Crazy Daisy: A popular après ski venue, Villa Crazy Daisy boasts live music, a diverse drink menu, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- GinHouse: As the name suggests, GinHouse is a haven for gin lovers. With an extensive selection of gin and expertly crafted cocktails, it's a more laid-back spot to unwind after skiing.
- Bernstein's bar: An elegant bar with a refined ambiance, Bernstein's is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy a quieter après ski scene.
Nightclubs
- Baumbar: A hotspot for night owls, Baumbar with top DJs, a spacious dance floor, and a pulsating light show, it attracts a crowd looking to dance the night away.
- Barracuda Club: Known for its dynamic music scene and themed nights, Barracuda Club from electronic beats to chart-toppers, ensures a memorable nightlife experience.
- Club Sensation: A prominent nightclub in Zell am See, Club Sensation with regular events, guest DJs, and a vibe that keeps the party going till the wee hours, it's a favorite among those seeking a spirited night out.
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Zell am See resort map
Download Zell am See resort map here
