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Zell am See
Ski Holidays

Zell am See skiing is great for...

Apres ski

Big ski area

Families

Beginners

Intermediates

Snowboarders

Traditional charm

Foodies

Non skiers

Welcome to Zell am See Ski Resort

Easy-going runs for beginners and intermediates
Access to high altitude glacier skiing
Stunning scenery and traditional charm

When it comes to mountain views, few are as breathtaking as the sight you’re greeted with on top of the Schmittenhöhe mountain above Zell am See, Austria. It’s not just the sea of mountains stretching across the skyline but also the 4km long lake Zell that makes it so spectacular.

Skiing from Zell am See village is pretty chilled – think tree-lined groomers with a few challenging red and black runs. While things get more challenging in neighbouring Kaprun, with access to the wide pistes, high altitude, and off-piste runs of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. And freestylers love the half pipes, jumps and rails in the terrain park.

The choice of accommodation in Zell am See ski resort is on point, with everything from 5-star luxury hotels and apartments to family-run B&Bs. Foodies are spoilt for choice, too, with top-notch restaurants both in the resort and on the pistes.

View and download Zell am See ski map

Resort Information

Resort Altitude

750m

Total Piste KM

138km

No. Skilifts

Snow Range

760m-3029m

Zell am See ski runs & ratings

TOTAL: 138km

Beginner(Distance: 59km)

8/10

Intermediate(Distance: 51km)

8/10

Advanced(Distance: 28km)

6/10

Best time to ski in Zell am See

Zell am See’s ski season is long, officially running from the beginning of December until mid-April. Christmas is an incredibly magical time in Austria, with enchanting festive markets filling the town with yuletide cheer. But if busy slopes are not your thing, book a ski holiday in Zell am See outside of the holidays to enjoy quieter pistes and save a few quid.

Snow conditions in Zell am See

Zell am See always sees some of the earliest and latest skiing in Austria thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier; it’s even possible to ski in summer on a good year. But in Zell am See itself, the ski slopes only go up to 2,000m, so if you don’t plan to explore the wider ski area, a trip in January and February will offer the best chance of decent snow. Happy to take the free shuttle bus to Kaprun? The glacier cable car will take you up to 3,000m, where there’s epic skiing all season.

Things to do in Zell am See

Outdoor Activities in Zell am See

Set off on foot and explore the shoreline of Zell am See’s lake or follow snowy ridges into the mountains on a guided snowshoe hike. If it’s cold enough, ice skating on the lake is a highlight. And a horse-drawn sleigh across snowy plateaus is well worth it.

Excursions in Zell am See

Non-skiers have their pick of activities in Zell am See. From a spot of souvenir shopping in the cobbled streets of the old town to learning about the local history at the Kaprun museum, there is something for everyone.

Spa and Wellness in Zell am See

For a spot of relaxation, the Tauern Thermal Spa has 12 pools and 10 saunas. Let go and unwind while gazing at majestic snowcapped mountains and alpine forest views. Got the kiddies in tow? There’s also a family area with flumes and water caves to enjoy.

Friends enjoying coffee at Zell Am See winter market

Couple sitting down to eat haute food on holiday

Restaurants in Zell am See

Delicious Austrian food awaits in the town's many eateries. From traditional schnitzel and dumplings to loaded burgers and pizza, you'll be well-fuelled and ready to hit the slopes again.

Kupferkessel - For traditional Austrian vibes and hearty meals after a big day on the slopes, you can’t beat this popular spot for dinner.

Franzl - This imperial-inspired restaurant is the go-to place for top-notch Austrian dishes with panoramic views of the Alps. Well, if it’s good enough for royalty…

Deins and Meins - Tuck into homemade pizza, burgers, steaks and salads at this modern bistro with a fantastic outdoor terrace and decent prices.

Pizzeria Giuseppe - Dating back to 1978, Giuseppe is a part of the furniture in Zell am See and has had lots of time to fine-tune your favourite Italian dishes to perfection.

Nightlife & Apres in Zell am See

The apres in Zell am See isn’t quite as large as its Austrian neighbours, St Anton or Mayrhofen, but there are plenty of lively bars to enjoy when the ski lifts close and the sun sets.

SchnapsHans Bar - An Austrian take on the Folie Douce. Start your apres at the top of the slopes and dance in the mountains to live music.

Off-Piste Bar - For a wild night of hip DJs and dancing, head to this off-the-wall late-night bar in the centre of Zell am See.

Ginhouse - One for the gin lovers. This is a cosy spot for a chilled evening with no less than 400 types of gin to choose from; some are even distilled in-house.