The best of Kaprun for a long weekend

The Kitzsteinhorn is a peak in the Austrian Alps, near Kaprun in the Zell am See region. Three cable cars take you up in succession. The first cable car was built here in 1965, but it has been closed since 2000. At the turn of the millennium, a major accident occurred here when one of the cabins caught fire, one of the biggest tragedies in Austria. 155 people died because of a heating fault.

At the top of this mountain is the pride of the region, the Top of Salzburg viewing platform. The snow stays on top even in summer, so don’t forget your sturdy shoes. The Gletscherjet Shuttle still leads to the very top, up to the platform, but you can also climb the last few dozen metres on a stone path that is more for experienced hikers. It’s not a completely challenging route, but at just under 3,000 metres above sea level, even a few metres of climbing can be a bit of a slog.

On the border of this hike, at the end of the 3rd cable car, there is also an Ice Arena, which will ensure smiles not only for children in summer – you can go bobsleighing or simply enjoy the snow in shorts when it is over 30 degrees down at Zell am See.

The highest viewpoint in the Zell am See region, the panoramic Top of Salzburg, is located 3,029 metres above sea level, on top of the Kitzsteinhorn. It offers unique views of Austria’s highest mountains and the surrounding countryside. This platform can be reached by 3 to 4 cable cars, more information about the journey and the Kitzsteinhorn can be found in its details.

But the Top of Salzburg platform itself is not the only attraction at the top of this mountain in the Austrian Alps. You will also find a very nice museum, which you pass through on your way to/from the viewing platform (depending on whether you go to the very top on foot or by the 4th cable car), or even a restaurant.

Zell am See, a town in the Austrian Alps, is a great destination in every season and a magnet for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, visitors are welcomed by the tranquil Zeller See, a lake surrounded by high mountains. Water sports, from swimming to paddleboarding, are available, as well as beautiful cycling paths around the lake. For mountain hikers, the town offers many trails with breathtaking views of the Alpine landscape. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy courses with panoramic views.

In winter, Zell am See transforms into a magical winter destination. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the surrounding ski resorts such as the Schmittenhöhe, which offers slopes for different skill levels. The Zeller See ice dam provides the ideal setting for ice skating and other winter activities. The historic town centre impresses with its narrow streets, traditional Austrian houses and cosy cafés. Overall, Zell am See is a great destination that combines the beauty of the Alpine landscape with a wealth of opportunities for active recreation in every season.

For us, the ideal “scenario” for a visit to Zell am See is to park either right in the town centre, do a short walk, including some refreshments at one of the local restaurants with a stop by the water. If you’re also looking for swimming opportunities, which are certainly available in the summer months, we recommend the north side of the lake, where there is a gentle entry into the water.

Mitterberg is the name for the area that offers a beautiful view of the entire lake and the town of Zell am See and its surroundings. It is a summit that can be reached by car, but you have to take into account a steep climb, a narrow road where if you meet an oncoming vehicle, either on the way up or on the way down, you will need both courage and space for minor manoeuvres. There is often a steep chasm right next to the road. However, this place is well worth a visit.

Not only the views here are nice, but also the wooden structure with the Zell am See sign, which is super photogenic. If you’re lucky like us and the visibility is good, you’ll see not only the lake, the town of Zell am See, but also the surrounding peaks of the Austrian Alps. Apart from the viewpoint itself, there is a restaurant on site where you can refresh yourself with a classic strudel or a good beer.