Austria
Zell am See-Kaprun is one of Austria’s most spectacular tourist regions, located in the heart of the Alps. It combines the beauty of Lake Zeller, perfect for water activities, with the majesty of alpine peaks, such as the Kitzsteinhorn, which offers year-round skiing. With two ski resorts (Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn), hiking, cycling, and a vibrant cultural life in the villages of Zell am See and Kaprun, this destination offers a unique experience in both winter and summer.
Starting with Schmittenhöhe, a 77-kilometre ski resort with stunning views of Lake Zeller and the Austrian Alps, it is ideal for beginners and expert skiers alike. It is known for its sunny slopes, its family atmosphere, and its variety of activities, ranging from skiing to hiking in summer. Schmittenhöhe is also famous for its modern cable cars and its commitment to sustainability in the Alpine region.
On the other hand, Kitzsteinhorn, an alpine giant, is also part of the stunning natural environment of the Zell am See-Kaprun region. This iconic destination combines the power of the eternal peaks with the tranquillity of Lake Zeller, offering visitors an unrivalled alpine experience.
Three resorts and 408km of pistes with the Ski ALPIN CARD ski pass
The Zell am See-Kaprun region offers a complete experience for skiing enthusiasts with the Ski ALPIN CARD pass, which gives access to three premium Austrian resorts: Schmittenhöhe, ideal for families with 77 kilometres of sunny slopes and panoramic views; Kitzsteinhorn, a glacier ski resort offering assured snow from October to May and 61 kilometres of pistes, plus five freeride lines and several snowparks; and the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, one of Austria’s largest ski areas.
With the Ski ALPIN CARD, skiers enjoy 408 kilometres of combined pistes and 121 cable cars, with direct access from the valley to the summits. The resorts not only offer slopes for all levels, but also freeride areas, children’s playgrounds and entertainment areas such as the Funslope XXL in Schmittenhöhe, one of the longest in the world.
Kitzsteinhorn is also a favourite destination for freeriders, with five dedicated routes and the thrilling Black Mambaslope, with a gradient of up to 63%. Schmittenhöhe, meanwhile, combines skiing with a sensory experience, with its ‘Trass’ piste and views of more than 30 peaks over 3,000 metres above sea level.
Sustainability in Zell am See-Kaprun
Zell am See-Kaprun is a region committed to sustainability and the preservation of the environment. In both Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn, the energy used in the cable cars comes from 100% renewable sources, and the resorts have implemented glacier protection and efficient water management projects, especially in the manufacture of artificial snow. In addition, the region has developed initiatives to reduce its ecological footprint by recycling and promoting more environmentally conscious tourism.
One of the other features of Zell am See-Kaprun that has caught our attention is that Zell am See-Kapruncan be reached by train. The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) service connects this Alpine region directly to all major cities in Austria, as well as having direct routes from Germany and Switzerland. The route offers spectacular views of mountains, glaciers and lakes. Arriving at the station in the centre of Zell am See, many hotels and services are accessible on foot, and the ÖBB Transfer service takes you conveniently from the station to your accommodation, without the need for a car.
It is also important to note that, during your stay in Zell am See-Kaprun, you can get around easily thanks to the Pinzgau Mobility Card, which gives you free access to trains, Postbus buses and the local Pinzgau Railway between 1 May and 31 October (in winter it is not available free of charge). This card is available from the first night of your stay and is valid until the day of departure. It includes journeys to major tourist destinations such as the Krimml Falls or the high mountain reservoirs in Kaprun, making a car-free holiday both convenient and environmentally friendly. The Mobility Card is also integrated into the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card, making access to public transport even easier.
Exceptions are special trains, such as the steam train, and some night bus lines. This free mobility service is designed to facilitate sustainable tourism, offering a practical and flexible alternative for exploring the region without relying on a car. It also allows you to easily access the main points of interest and enjoy the nature and landscape through convenient and efficient public transport.
Ski runs and lifts in Zell am See-Kaprun
The Zell am See-Kaprun region offers two exceptional ski areas. In Schmittenhöhe, skiers enjoy 77 kilometres of slopes overlooking Lake Zeller. This resort is ideal for families and skiers of all levels, with slopes divided between easy and more challenging terrain. Kitzsteinhorn, on the other hand, is famous for its glacier, which offers year-round skiing and has 41 kilometres of slopes, including areas dedicated to freeride and competitive skiing. The cable cars are modern, with the capacity to carry thousands of skiers every hour, reducing waiting times and optimising the experience.
In the Zell am See-Kaprun region, you’ll find slopes to suit all tastes, but if you’re looking for the most challenging slopes… take note:
- Black Mamba in Kitzsteinhorn: With a gradient of up to 63%, this black run is famous for its steep slope and is aimed at experienced skiers.
- Trass in Schmittenhöhe: A slope with up to 70% gradient, ideal for expert skiers looking for technical descents and adrenaline.
Official piste map of zellamsee-kaprun (2024-2025). More information on their website https://www.zellamsee-kaprun.com/en/sport/winter/skimap
To finish with the ski slopes of this huge Austrian ski area, we do not want to forget the effort made for families and children. On the Schmittenhöhe mountain, a very special host awaits families: Schmidolin, the little dragon. This character accompanies the children all year round, whether in winter on the ski slopes or in summer on his exciting adventures. During the ski season, Schmidolin teaches the little ones safety rules while they enjoy the fun Funslope XXL. In summer, it organises activities such as its Baptism of Fire, where children solve riddles and tests of courage in its theme park.
In addition, Schmidolin has a club for its little fans, who can participate in special events such as the Schmidolin Ski Day, receive personalised mailings and keep up to date with dragon news. At the Schmidolin adventure park, children can explore, climb, slide and enjoy nature in a safe environment. They can also join in with their e-motocross activity, where youngsters from the age of six can ride electric bikes on a controlled circuit while their parents watch them from a rest area.
Kitzsteinhorn: a giant glacier in the Alps
Kitzsteinhorn rises over 3,000 metres above sea level, dominating the landscape with its glittering glacier that allows year-round skiing. From its peaks, the panoramic view takes in a vast horizon of snow-capped peaks, green valleys and the majestic Lake Zeller, which shimmers like a mirror in the sun. This environment is not only a haven for skiers and mountaineers, but also a natural sanctuary where fresh air and untamed nature envelop all visitors.
Zell am See, with its prime lakeside location, is an alpine gem that invites visitors to enjoy activities in both winter and summer. While Kaprun, closer to the Kitzsteinhorn, offers direct access to alpine adventure, making it a perfect starting point for those seeking the thrill of the high peaks. Together, these destinations create an epic experience, where mountains and glacier become the perfect backdrop for nature and adventure lovers.
apres-Ski experience and activities in Zell am See-Kaprun
Zell am See-Kaprun is more than just skiing; the region offers a vibrant apres-ski life with bars and restaurants in both Zell am See and Kaprun. Visitors can enjoy a meal overlooking the lake or relax in the Tauern Spa, a wellness complex located in Kaprun. For the adventurous, in addition to skiing, the region is famous for its snowshoe tours, ski touringroutes and the unique experience of visiting the ice caves of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
Events and competitions in Zell am See-Kaprun
The region hosts several renowned events throughout the year. In Kitzsteinhorn, the Glacier Park Opening marks the start of the winter season with freestyle competitions and exhibitions in the snowparks. Schmittenhöhe organises local races and family ski events, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all levels. Zell am See-Kaprun also hosts music festivals in winter, combining sporting spirit with cultural entertainment.
Zell am See-Kaprun is an internationally renowned alpine region, combining nature, sport and sustainability. From the eternal peaks of the Kitzsteinhorn to the breathtaking views of the Schmittenhöhe, this destination offers a complete experience for lovers of skiing and active tourism. The combination of adventure and relaxation, together with a concern for the environment, makes Zell am See-Kaprun an unrivalled choice for experiencing the Alps in an epic and responsible way.
