Zell am See Ski Resort Guide: Schmittenhöhe
Skiing in Austria is renowned for its quality, scenery and alpine culture, and the Zell am See Ski Resort is one of the country’s most iconic destinations.
The Schmittenhöhe ski resort rises directly above the lakeside town, offering a varied mix of pistes, reliable conditions and sweeping views over Lake Zell (Zeller See) and the surrounding Alpine peaks.
This combination of skiing, scenery and atmosphere has made Zell am See ski holidays popular with generations of winter travellers.
Zell am See ski holidays appeal to a wide range of visitors, from relaxed recreational skiers to confident intermediates looking for long, scenic descents.
The Zell am See ski resort is deeply rooted in Austrian winter culture and has even been immortalised in the iconic après-ski song Schifoan (Skiing) by Wolfgang Ambros, a tribute to Austria’s enduring love of skiing and mountain life.
Today, Schmittenhöhe ski slopes continue to reflect this classic appeal, combining tradition with modern lift infrastructure and well-groomed runs.
Schmittenhöhe is also my home ski resort, and the mountain where many winter days are spent on the slopes. Even as the slowest skier in the family, the pleasure of skiing at Schmittenhöhe comes from its relaxed pace, accessible terrain and the feeling of being part of the local Zell am See skiing scene.
Local Experience of Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Living in Zell am See-Kaprun means I have a year-round connection to the mountains, and the Schmittenhöhe ski resort is my home resort.
Regular skiing on this mountain offers first-hand insight into how the Zell am See ski resort suits skiers of all abilities, from beginners gaining confidence on gentle blue runs to steady skiers enjoying long red pistes with uninterrupted lake views.
This local perspective shapes a practical and honest Zell am See skiing review, helping visitors experience Schmittenhöhe as more than just a resort, but as a true home mountain.
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Zell am See Ski Resort Review: A Complete Guide to Schmittenhöhe
Contents
Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort in Zell am See – Where Alpine Peaks Meet the Lake
Understanding Ski Piste Classifications in Austria
Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort in Zell am See – Overview of the Ski Area
Zell am See Ski Resort at a Glance – Schmittenhöhe Key Facts
Skiing & Snowboarding on Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Beginner Skiing on Schmittenhöhe
Zell am See Ski Resort for Intermediate Skiers
Schmittenhöhe for Advanced Skiing
Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort Night skiing
Zell am See Ski Resort Snowparks & Fun Slopes
Ski Rentals at Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Ski Schools at Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Mountain Dining on Schmittenhöhe
Après-Ski on Schmittenhöhe – Zell am See Bars, Lounges & Mountain Parties
Winter Activities Beyond Skiing in Zell am See
Best Time to Visit Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
How to Get to Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Where to Stay in Zell am See for Schmittenhöhe Skiing
Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort in Zell am See
Where Alpine Peaks Meet the Lake
The Schmittenhöhe ski resort in Zell am See is widely regarded as one of the most scenic ski resorts in Austria, thanks to its exceptional location directly above the lakeside town.
Few ski resorts offer such a striking setting, where pistes descend from panoramic viewpoints down towards a historic alpine village on the edge of a crystal-clear lake.
From the upper slopes on Schmittenhöhe, skiing in Zell am See is defined by uninterrupted views across Lake Zell (Zeller See), the snow-covered Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and more than 30 surrounding Alpine peaks rising above 3,000 metres (~10.000 feet).
This rare combination of water, mountains and snow creates a dramatic backdrop that sets the Zell am See ski resort apart from many other Austrian destinations.
Skiing from the summit level towards the lakeside is an experience that remains unusual in the Alps and adds to the resort’s lasting appeal.
Zell am See itself is a picture-perfect medieval alpine town, nestled between the lake and the Schmittenhöhe mountain (1967m – 6450 feet). With a population of around 10,000, the town has a long history dating back to Roman times and developed into an important market centre in the 19th century.
Today, it’s largely a traffic-free historic centre, with lakeside promenades, restaurants, bars, and traditional architecture that contribute to the classic Austrian village atmosphere many visitors seek when planning a Zell am See ski holiday.
What truly defines skiing at Schmittenhöhe is the balance between sport and lifestyle. Mornings on the slopes can be followed by afternoons in the lakeside town, whether strolling through the old centre, enjoying a café by the water or taking in the mountain views from the promenade. This seamless blend of alpine skiing and vibrant village life is what makes the Zell am See ski resort an enduring favourite and one of Austria’s most visually striking winter destinations.
Ideal for skiing in Austria, the resort caters to beginners, intermediates, and families, combining snow-sure slopes with excellent lift infrastructure and a vibrant town atmosphere.
Understanding Ski Piste Classifications in Austria
In Austria, ski slopes are classified by colour to indicate their level of difficulty, helping skiers choose runs suited to their ability.
Unlike in France or North America, green slopes are rare in Austrian ski resorts. Where they do appear, green signs indicate very flat, gentle runs often used as practice areas for beginners.
🟦 Blue slopes – beginners and families: Gradients of up to 25 per cent make these slopes ideal for learning basic skiing techniques safely while enjoying scenic runs.
In North America, a blue square indicates a steeper gradient.
🟥 Red slopes – advanced skiers: With gradients of less than 40 per cent, red runs offer longer, more challenging descents suitable for refining technique and building confidence.
◼️ Black slopes – Experienced skiers only: Steep slopes with gradients exceeding 40 per cent are reserved for very experienced skiers seeking a demanding alpine challenge. In North America, a black diamond indicates a difficult slope of over 40 per cent, while two black diamonds mark extremely challenging runs with tight bends and unclear edges.
Ski routes – adventurous skiers: Marked in yellow or red dashed lines on piste maps, these slopes are secured but not groomed, allowing experienced skiers to explore uneven terrain and natural powder conditions.
In North America, these are generally referred to as “off-piste,” “expert terrain.
It’s important to note that open, unmarked terrain carries inherent risks.
These areas are neither marked, groomed, nor secured, and anyone leaving the designated pistes does so at their own risk.
Skiers venturing into these areas should have the necessary experience, equipment, and awareness of mountain safety.
Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort – Overview of the Ski Area
The Schmittenhöhe ski resort in Zell am See, known locally simply as Schmitten, is famous for its balanced terrain and scenic layout.
With more than 77 kilometres (48 miles) of pistes, the Zell am See ski resort offers a varied skiing experience, including several valley runs that lead back towards the town and lake below. This design allows skiers to enjoy long descents without feeling confined to a single sector of the mountain.
Schmittenhöhe is equipped with modern lift infrastructure, including the AreitXpress, CityXpress, TrassXpress, and Schmittenhöhebahn gondolas, which provide convenient ski-in, ski-out access to various areas of Zell am See.
Well-maintained slopes and reliable snow conditions ensure that skiing remains relaxed, scenic and enjoyable for beginners, intermediates and families, rather than focusing solely on high-altitude challenges.
Beyond traditional piste skiing, the Zell am See ski resort also caters to riders seeking variety. Schmittenhöhe features snowparks, superpipes and designated areas for freeriding, along with opportunities for ski touring for those looking to explore the mountain at a slower pace. This diversity ensures that skiing in Zell am See appeals to a broad audience, from casual holiday skiers to more adventurous visitors.
Schmittenhöhe mountain forms the main ski area above Zell am See, but the wider Zell am See-Kaprun ski region extends approximately 8 km (5 miles) to the neighbouring village of Kaprun, home to the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, one of Austria’s most snow‑reliable ski destinations, offering skiing from mid‑October through to the end of May.
Combined, the larger Zell am See-Kaprun Ski area offers a vertical drop of 768 m to 3,029 m (2,520 to 9,938 feet), creating one of the most varied and accessible skiing experiences in Austria.
The Zell am See ski resort is also connected to Austria’s second-largest ski area, the Ski Circus, via the ZellamseeXpress gondola, giving skiers access to over 408 km (254 miles) of pistes.
Free ski buses link Schmittenhöhe with Kitzsteinhorn in Kaprun and the Ski Circus, allowing easy movement between resorts while still allowing Schmittenhöhe to remain the natural home base for a Zell am See ski holiday.
🌟BONUS 🌟
The Alpin Card offers access to Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See, Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Kaprun and the Ski Circus, combining to provide over 408 km of skiable terrain.
Epic Pass Holders can enjoy five days of skiing across Schmittenhöhe, Kitzsteinhorn and the Ski Circus (Saalbach/Hinterglemm/Leogang/Fieberbrunn), making Zell am See an ideal base for exploring some of Austria’s largest and most varied ski areas.
Zell am See Ski Resort at a Glance – Schmittenhöhe Key Facts
The Zell am See ski resort at Schmittenhöhe offers a compact yet varied alpine experience, with a vertical range that supports long, scenic descents and consistent snow conditions.
Elevation:
Base: 760 m (2500 feet)
Summit: 2,000 m (6562 feet)
Vertical difference: 1,240 m (4068 feet)
Lifts & Gondolas
Total lifts: 27 | 2 Aerial tramways | 7 Gondolas | 10 Chairlifts | 4 T-bar lifts
Pistes: 77 km (48 miles)
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- Easy Slopes (Blue): 30 Km (18.6 miles)
- Intermediate Slopes (Red): 28 km (17.4 miles)
- Advanced Slopes (Black): 19 km (12 miles)
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Marked Ski Routes: 8 km (5 miles)
© Schmittenhöhebahn AG
€€€ Ski ALPIN Card (day ticket 2025/2026): Adult 79€ | Youth 59.50€ | Children 39.50€
Multi-day, weekly, and annual passes are available, with a lower daily rate.
Schmittenhöhe is just one part of the wider Zell am See-Kaprun ski region, which also includes Kaprun and the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier.
➡️ For a complete overview of what the Zell am See-Kaprun region offers, including skiing and non-ski winter activities, visit our Zell am See-Kaprun guide.
➡️ Schmittenhöhe is one of our Top 5 Ski Resorts in Austria, celebrated for its panoramic views and variety of slopes.
➡️ Looking for alternatives or comparisons? See our list of the Best Ski Resorts near Salzburg to plan your ideal ski itinerary.
Skiing & Snowboarding at Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
The Zell am See Ski Resort at Schmittenhöhe generally opens from early December to mid-April, offering a snow-sure experience with 100% of slopes equipped with snow-making facilities.
All pistes are shared by skiers and snowboarders, reflecting Austria’s friendly, inclusive alpine culture.
The resort’s convenient CityXpress Gondola, located near the train station, make it accessible for day trips from Salzburg in under 90 minutes, while well-maintained slopes and reliable snow conditions ensure a smooth, scenic skiing experience.
Stunning panoramic views of Lake Zell, surrounding mountains and glacier peaks accompany nearly every run.
Schmittenhöhe is known for its wide, beginner-friendly slopes, balanced intermediate runs, and challenging black pistes.
The resort offers eight marked ski routes, an Audi Ski Run, a Skimovie course, and the extra-long Funslope for additional variety.
Skiers and snowboarders alike enjoy long, flowing pistes that combine traditional alpine sport with breathtaking scenery.
Beginner Skiing on Schmittenhöhe
Beginners are well catered for at Schmittenhöhe, with 30 km (18.6 miles) of gentle, easy-access slopes and dedicated learning areas.
At the AreitXpress valley station, there is a beginner slope (day ticket in 2026 was 15€) with a covered conveyor belt designed for first-time skiers.
🟦 Recommended beginner routes include:
Glocknerwiese slope: A wide, scenic run with stunning views of Lake Zell, accessed via Schuttdorf and the AreitXpress gondola.
The Glocknerbahn is an 8-seat chair lift with a rolling carpet entry that takes beginners to the top of the Glocknerwiese.
Wanderlustria’s Blue Slope Tour Recommendation
The Glocknerwiese Slope at Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
From the Areitbahn III (accessed across from the AreitXpress and Areitbahn II), TrassXpress, and Breiteckbahn meeting point,
This Blue Ski piste tour begins by taking Kapellenpiste (8) to the mountain’s backside and ascending via the Kapellenbahn to the summit.
From the summit, take the blue slopes Breiteckpiste (1) and Hirschkogelpiste (2): Serviced by the Hirschkogel Express Chairlift, which takes you to the Mittelstation:
From the Mittelstation, you can continue via Skiweg Nord (5a) back to the CityXpress valley station.
Skiing from the Summit with the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in the distance
Zell am See Ski Resort for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers have over 28 km of red pistes (17.4 miles) to explore across the entire mountain.
Popular Red runs on the sunnier east side include the Sonnkogelpiste, which is accessed by the Sonnkogelbahn chairlift, leading down to the Südabfahrt, served by the Sonnenalmbahn aerial tramway. Across the road is the Schmittenhöhebahn aerial tramway, and TrassXpress lifts provide convenient connections back to the summit for multiple descents.
Wanderlustria’s Red Slope Tour Recommendation
The Schmittenhöhe–Schüttdorf descent is 6 km long, with a 1,250 m vertical drop.
Start at the Summit and follow the Areitbahn sections 1–3, then the Schüttabfahrt (4) to the valley station of the AreitXpress.
This run offers a scenic, intermediate-level route with panoramic views.
image © Schmittenhöhebahn AG
Schmittenhöhe for Advanced/Expert Skiers
Advanced skiers can enjoy challenging black runs, including the Trass descent (4 km, 1,000 m vertical drop), one of the steepest slopes in Salzburger Land.
Other demanding pistes include:
- Trassabfahrt
- Standardabfahrt
- Südabfahrt
- Nordabfahrt
In addition, there are eight ski routes and ample opportunities for freeriders to explore deep powder off-piste.
Night Skiing at the Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Schmittenhöhe offers a night ski slope at the Ebenbergbahn in Zell am See.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 January to 26 February 2026, you can ski down the illuminated piste from 5 until 8.30 pm.
The 1.5 km Night slope is freshly groomed for evening sessions, and skiers are treated to views of the illuminated town rooftops.
Night skiing is included with a day lift pass, or an evening ticket can be purchased separately.
image © Schmittenhöhebahn AG
Schmittenhöhe Snowparks & Fun Slopes
The Funslope Schmittenhöhe is one of the world’s longest, stretching 1,300 metres.
Riders encounter a variety of features, including a snail, a tunnel, banked turns, a wave track, and small jumps.
Using the SpotOn video app, skiers can capture a personal video of their run with GPS tracking and fixed cameras.
image © Schmittenhöhebahn AG
Family Skiing at the Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
Schmittenhöhe is highly family-friendly, with the entire area around the Glocknerwiese slope designed specifically for family fun.
The Kidsslope has a combination of obstacles, waves, tunnels, and a slalom course. Schmidolin, the fun holiday dragon, also entertains the youngest guests.
⭐Special Offer: The “Super Saturday” Junior XPLORE Ski Pass is available every Saturday for €15 for children born in 2007 or later, providing a full day of fun for the youngest visitors.
Ski Rentals at Schmittenhöhe – Where to Hire Skis & Snowboards
When planning your Zell am See ski holiday, having the right equipment is essential. Fortunately, Schmittenhöhe offers several professional ski rental shops with the latest skis, snowboards, and accessories to suit all abilities.
Bründl Sports – Largest Ski Rental Network
The largest ski shop in the Alps, the Bründl network, based in Kaprun, has rental locations at each valley station of Schmittenhöhe, as well as at the mountain stations. This extensive network ensures you can get help at any rental location if issues arise with your equipment.
Locations:
- AreitXpress Valley Station
- CityXpress Valley Station
- Schmittenhöhebahn Valley Station
- Areit III Mountain Station
Additional locations: Kitzsteinhorn valley and mountain stations, Maiskogel valley station, Kaprun, and multiple points at the Ski Circus.
Extras & Facilities:
- Heated 2-person and 4-person lockers at Areit valley & Areit I top, CityXpress, Schmittenhöhe valley station, Areit III Drive-In, and the Alpincentre (Kitzsteinhorn).
- Pick up your equipment the day before from 2 pm to start skiing without delay.
- 20% early bird discount when booking online at least two days before your rental.
- 50% child discount for children up to 15 years old.
- 20% youth discount for 16–18 year olds.
- Children under 10 go free if both parents rent skis or snowboards.
Intersport Zell am See – Located in the town centre, just a 5-minute walk from the train station and around 10 minutes to the CityXpress gondola.
Bonuses:
- Ski for 7 days and pay for 6
- Free hire for children up to 10 years old*
- Children and teenagers up to 14 years old: 50% discount
- Collect equipment the day before from 4 pm
Hervis Ski Rental – Conveniently located at Schmittenstraße 1, across from the CityXpress Gondola station.
Ski Schools at Schmittenhöhe
Schmittenhöhe benefits from having some of the best ski instructors in Austria, with many top instructors having undergone ski instructor training at the nearby Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Kaprun.
Whether you want to improve your skiing or snowboarding skills, beginners, returning skiers, advanced riders, and seasoned pros can find instruction tailored to their ability.
All ski schools in the area offer both private and group lessons, making it easy to choose a format that suits your learning style.
Top-rated ski schools for the Schmittenhöhe area include Ski- & Snowboardschule Zell am See, Sport Alpin, and Outdo, all of which provide comprehensive lessons for skiing and snowboarding.
These schools deliver private sessions and group courses with expert instruction, and lessons are available in English, German, and Dutch.
We have used Ski- & Snowboardschule Zell am See regularly and recommend it.
They provide courses for children, adults, and teenagers.
Our children learned both skiing and snowboarding there, and I personally have taken group lessons to improve my technique.
The school has six meeting points across the entire Schmittenhöhe ski area, and its offices are directly at the valley stations of the AreitXpress, CityXpress, and TrassXpress, making access to the slopes convenient.
Visit Ski- & Snowboardschule Zell am See
Sport Alpin offers ski school group courses, private one-to-one tuition, a children’s ski school with both group and private lessons, and a racing school providing training for Slalom, Giant Slalom, and Super-G runs.
Sport Alpin has offices in the centre of Zell am See at Hypolithstraße 1, directly behind the main bus station and post office, as well as in Schüttdorf at Flugplatzstraße 16, across from the AreitXpress parking lot.
The school has multiple meeting points across Schmittenhöhe, allowing flexible access to the slopes.
Visit Sport Alpin
Outdo Ski & Snowboard School provides high-quality instruction with top-class certified instructors, offering both private and group lessons for children, teenagers, and adults of all ski levels.
Their office is located at Schmittenstraße 8, in the centre of Zell am See.
Outdo is known for its professional teaching and personalised approach, making it ideal for those seeking tailored lessons in a friendly environment.
Dining on Schmittenhöhe – Mountain Restaurants
Schmittenhöhe offers a rich alpine experience beyond the slopes, combining traditional mountain huts with modern panoramic restaurants.
Eating on the mountain is varied, with 23 mountain restaurants and ski huts serving both classic Austrian cuisine and international dishes on panoramic terraces overlooking Lake Zell and the surrounding peaks.
Mountain food after a day on the slopes is filling, comforting and the perfect way to restore energy in the alpine air.
My personal favourites, and dishes I always recommend trying when skiing at Schmittenhöhe, are
Kaiserschmarrn, the light and fluffy shredded pancake that was famously the Emperor’s favourite
Käsespätzle, the Alpine cheesey dumplings, topped with fried onions
Germknödel, a soft yeast dumpling filled with spiced plum jam (powidl), served with vanilla sauce or melted butter and generously topped with poppy seeds (Mohn).
Gröstl, a hearty pan-fried dish of potatoes, onions and meat, traditionally served with a fried egg on top.
Learn more about Austria’s classic dishes and culinary traditions
My favourite food while skiing, Käsespätzle.
Wanderlustria’s Schmittenhöhe Mountain Restaurant Recommendations
For those seeking recommendations, the Franzl Panorama Restaurant at the Areitbahn III mountain station, situated at 1,900 metres, offers spectacular views and can easily be reached by non-skiers.
The Glockneralm, located directly at the entrance to the kid-friendly slope, serves traditional alpine dishes on a sunny terrace ideal for families.
Another favourite is the Mittelstation, a rustic hut at the top of the CityXpress and the base of the Hirschkogel chairlift, offering easy access to both skiers and non-skiers alike.
Whether you prefer a quiet meal with breathtaking views, Schmittenhöhe delivers the perfect combination of alpine dining, local flavours, and mountain atmosphere
Food and amazing Views at Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
image © Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus
Après-Ski on Schmittenhöhe – Zell am See
Schmittenhöhe is well known for its vibrant après-ski scene, offering options that suit both relaxed mountain gatherings and lively party atmospheres.
In Austria, après-ski usually begins in the mid-afternoon, often around 3:00 pm, and tends to wind down earlier than expected, typically by 4:00 pm.
This allows skiers and snowboarders to enjoy the slopes before the last gondolas descend and the pistes close for the day.
It’s important to remember that skiing under the influence is illegal in Austria, so always enjoy après-ski beverages responsibly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the mountain.
Après-ski at Franzl on Schmittenhöhe image © Schmittenhöhebahn AG
A classic way to begin après-ski on the mountain is at SchnapsHans Alm, located at the Summit at 2,000 metres beside the Berghotel Schmittenhöhe.
From here, the atmosphere gradually builds as you make your way downhill, stopping at the umbrella bars dotted along the descent for drinks and music.
The AreitLounge, at the top of the AreitXpress gondola, is another popular spot for drinks with panoramic views.
Après-ski SchnapsHans Alm
Back in Zell am See, the après-ski party continues in lounges, bars, and discos.
Apres Ski Bar Cabrio, located at the valley station of the AreitXpress, is perfect for drinks in the sun, with a restaurant serving classic Austrian cuisine.
Villa Crazy Daisy, one of the town’s most popular spots, features indoor spaces and outdoor terraces overlooking Lake Zell. With three floors and a different band playing daily, it’s ideal for food, drinks, and lively après-ski entertainment.
RUBIX brings retro vibes and energetic music, with vintage ski-themed décor and live music that keeps the atmosphere buzzing late into the night.
For a more relaxed and refined experience, Ginhouse in the centre of town offers one of the largest gin selections in the region, along with creative cocktails and a cosy atmosphere for groups who want quality drinks and conversation.
Greens Pub is another great option for cocktails, complemented by Greens XL Bar’s lively dance music.
For those seeking an upmarket experience, the Zell am See Casino, located next to the Grand Hotel on the lake, combines gaming with spectacular views of Lake Zell and the surrounding Alpine peaks. Guests can try their luck at roulette, blackjack, poker, or the slot machines while enjoying drinks on the large terrace.
Whether you prefer relaxed mountain huts, lively bars on the descent, or a stylish town setting, Schmittenhöhe and Zell am See offer a complete après-ski experience for all tastes and ages.
Winter Activities in Zell am See-Non-Ski Experiences
Zell am See isn’t just for skiing—its stunning location between the mountains and the lake makes it a fantastic destination for non-skiers and those looking for alternative winter experiences.
For visitors who want more than relaxing by the fire, there are countless ways to enjoy the winter landscape.
On the mountain, the Panorama Platform “Kaiserblick”, located at just under 2,000 metres, offers breathtaking views of over 30 three-thousand-metre peaks, including the Grossglockner, with Lake Zell sparkling below. Partially equipped with a glass floor and elevated 30 metres above the ground, it’s a favourite photo spot for non-skiers and families alike.
© Schmittenhöhe_ Johannes Radlwimmer
The town itself offers scenic walking trails around the frozen lake, while good rail connections make day trips to Salzburg easy.
Those looking for a more active experience can enjoy guided winter walks, snowshoeing, or panoramic hikes, with over 40 km of groomed trails across the Zell am See-Kaprun region.
For a rush of adrenaline or novelty, try paragliding over the winter landscape, where you can soar quietly above snow-covered peaks, or experience the Maisiflitzer alpine coaster in Kaprun, a safe and thrilling ride open year-round.
Tobogganing is another classic winter activity. Zell am See offers several options, from the family-friendly Köhlergraben toboggan run to the thrilling Kohlschnait toboggan run near Bruck, with a 3 km course and a Berggasthof at the top serving hearty Austrian dishes.
For night-time adventure, the Bramberg floodlit run, the world’s longest, spans 14 km with 1,300 metres of vertical descent, located ~40-minute drive from Zell am See.
For ultimate relaxation, the nearby Tauern Spa in Kaprun, Austria’s largest spa and wellness centre, offers soothing natural waters, saunas, and spa treatments perfect for recovering after a day in the snow.
Whether gliding across a frozen lake, tubing down a hill, or enjoying panoramic views and alpine cuisine, Zell am See offers a wealth of winter activities beyond skiing, ensuring that every member of the group has a memorable alpine experience.
Best Time to Visit Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort
The main ski season at Schmittenhöhe runs from December through April, attracting visitors from across Austria and beyond.
The resort is particularly busy during the Christmas and New Year period, from December 26 to January 6, and during the European school holidays in February.
For those seeking the best snow conditions, January is often ideal, with March also offering reliable snow, slightly smaller crowds, and more affordable accommodation than during the peak holiday periods.
A great advantage of visiting Schmittenhöhe is the opportunity to combine your skiing with the nearby Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Kaprun, which guarantees snow even when conditions are less certain on the lower slopes.
This combination allows visitors to enjoy a snow-sure ski holiday while taking in the scenic variety of both mountains.
© Kitzsteinhorn AG
➡️ If you’re visiting during the festive season, our Austria at Christmas guide highlights holiday markets, seasonal events, and tips for skiing over Christmas and New Year.
How to Get to the Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort – Zell am See
Reaching the Schmittenhöhe ski resort is straightforward, whether you are arriving by plane, train, or car.
The resort is situated in the heart of the Pinzgau region, approximately 85 km south of Salzburg along the A10 Tauern Autobahn, making it easily accessible for international and regional visitors.
The closest airport is Salzburg, around 1.5 hours’ drive from Zell am See.
Innsbruck Airport lies 146 km away, roughly two hours and fifteen minutes by car, while Munich Airport is about 196 km to the north, or approximately two and a half hours’ drive.
Getting to Zell am See Ski Resort by Car from Salzburg:
For those travelling by car from Salzburg, the most convenient route is via the A10 Autobahn (vignette required) to Bischofshofen, then along the B311 directly to Zell am See.
Parking is available at the AreitXpress valley station, which has a large free car park and offers direct access to the gondolas.
Getting to Zell am See Ski Resort by Public Transport
Public transport options make a no-car-needed ski holiday easy.
Direct trains run from Salzburg to Zell am See, with connections also available from Munich and Vienna.
The train station is centrally located in Zell am See, within easy walking distance of the CityXpress Gondola for Schmittenhöhe.
There is also a regular bus, #260, that departs directly from the Salzburg airport to Zell am See.
© ÖBB
Free ski buses connect the various valley stations across Zell am See, Kaprun, and the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, ensuring convenient access to the entire ski region. From the train station, bus 660 provides a direct link to the centre of Kaprun, making travel between the towns simple for skiers, non-skiers, and visitors alike.
Whether you prefer driving, taking the train, or combining both, getting to Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort is easy and stress-free, allowing you to start your Zell am See ski holiday without delay.
➡️ For full details on transport options from Salzburg, Munich, or Vienna, see our guide on How to get to Zell am See-Kaprun
➡️ Discover the Free Salzburg Mobility Card for free transport (buses and trains) in the State of Salzburg when staying at paid accommodations.
Where to stay in Zell am See Ski Resort
Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference on a Zell am See ski holiday.
From cosy alpine lodges tucked into the mountainside to modern hotels in the lakeside town, accommodation options cater to every type of traveller.
Staying in Zell am See not only provides easy access to the Schmittenhöhe ski resort via ski-in/ski-out gondolas, but also puts you close to the town’s restaurants, bars, and après-ski scene.
Note: Accommodations accessible only by ski lift can be reached solely during lift operating hours, generally from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Outside these times, descent to the village centre is not possible.
Our Accommodation Recommendations for Zell am See
Zell am See-Kaprun is our home, but we recommend our friends and family to stay at:
In the centre of Zell am See
♥ The Grand Hotel Zell am See is located directly on the lake. The hotel has a restaurant, a wellness centre, and an indoor pool. 📍€€€
♥ The family-run Hotel zum Hirschen is located in the centre of Zell am See. The hotel has a two-toques restaurant, bar, spa, wellness centre and indoor pool. 📍€€€
♥ Salzburgerhof This luxurious, family-run 5-star hotel is in Zell am See’s centre. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, spa and wellness centre, and indoor pool. 📍€€€
♥ Romantikhotel Zell am See. Situated in a historic building dating back to 1493, the Romantikhotel is centrally located in Zell am See, just a few steps away from Lake Zell. 📍 €€
♥ The Hotel Tirolerhof is a centrally located 4-star superior spa hotel. The hotel has 2 restaurants, a spa and wellness centre and an indoor pool. 📍€€
♥ Hotel Stadt Wien This family-run hotel is in the centre of Zell am See, with an on-site restaurant and a wellness centre. 📍€€
♥ Hotel Lebzelter – Traditional Alpine Style hotel located in the centre of Zell am See. 📍€
On Schmittenhöhe
♥ Berghotel Jaga-Alm located at 1,200 m (4000 feet), the mountain hotel provides views of Lake Zell and the surrounding mountains. The hotel features a restaurant.⛷️€€
♥ Berghotel Schmittenhöhe is at the summit of Zell am See at 2000m; the hotel is accessed only by the Schmittenhöhebahn gondola. The hotel has three restaurants, a spa and wellness centre and the famous Schnaps Hans Bar for aprés-ski. ⛷️€€
♥ Berghotel Blaikner’s Sonnalm located 1400 m above sea level, can only be reached by the Sonnenalmbahn Cable Car. ⛷️
♥ Glockneralm is a Bed and Breakfast directly on the Piste. The accommodation is only accessible by Ski Lift (AreitXpress and Glocknerbahn). It also has the popular Glockneralm restaurant. ⛷️
Accommodation Keys:
⛷️ Accommodations on the mountain -in Winter Ski-in/Ski Out
📍 Centre of Zell am See
€€€ : Luxury
€€: Mid-range
€: Budget
Tips for First-Time Visitors to the Zell am See Ski Resort
For first-time visitors to the Schmittenhöhe ski resort, a little planning can go a long way.
To make the most of your day, start early on lifts such as the AreitXpress or CityXpress, which provide quick access to a variety of pistes and allow you to enjoy the mountain before it becomes busy.
Avoiding peak holiday periods, particularly around Christmas, New Year, and the February European school holidays, ensures you can ski in comfort and take full advantage of the scenic runs.
Booking your ski passes in advance is recommended, giving you a smooth start and more time to explore the slopes.
For a truly memorable experience, combine your skiing with walks around the frozen Lake Zell, taking in the alpine scenery from both mountain and lakeside perspectives.
➡️ New to skiing or unsure what to pack? Check our Ski Packing Guide for essentials and expert tips.
Why Schmittenhöhe Should Be on Your Austria Ski Bucket List
Schmittenhöhe should be on every Austrian ski enthusiast’s bucket list.
Its unique combination of panoramic alpine views, pistes for all levels, and lakeside charm makes it perfect for couples seeking romantic getaways, families looking for safe and varied skiing, or anyone who loves long scenic descents.
Beyond the slopes, Zell am See’s year-round appeal—from winter wellness to snow adventures—makes it a versatile destination for visitors seeking more than just skiing.
With its mix of accessible terrain, vibrant town life, and classic Austrian alpine atmosphere, Schmittenhöhe offers a complete winter holiday experience that keeps skiers and non-skiers alike coming back year after year.
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