Walking in Zell am See

Walking Trails:
400km

Terrain:
Diverse terrain from the lake to dense forests, rugged mountains and Alpine meadows

Zell am See at a glance

  • German
  • Euro (EUR)
  • Birmingham Int. (BHX), Edinburgh (EDI), Glasgow Int. (GLA), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester Int. (MAN), Newcastle (NCL)

Travel included to Zell am See

Depart on: Saturday or Wednesday

Fly into: Salzburg or Innsbruck

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes by coach

Included in your walking holiday to Zell am See

  • Inghams Guided Walks from 26 May - 12 Sep 25 (subject to availability)
  • Mobility Card included at all hotels
  • Zell am See Summer Card included at selected hotels
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Zell am See
  • Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Walking in Zell am See

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
400km
Terrain:
Diverse terrain from the lake to dense forests, rugged mountains and Alpine meadows

Embark on a memorable walking holiday in Zell am See, where stunning alpine views meet exceptional trails. Take the gondola to Schmittenhöhe for panoramic views of Lake Zell and the surrounding peaks. For an easy walk, try the Sissi Loop, following in the footsteps of Empress Elisabeth, or challenge yourself with the final stage of the 275-kilometre Hohe Tauern Panorama Walking Trail, descending from Schmittenhöhe to Zell am See. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or prefer relaxed strolls, walking in Zell am See offers something for everyone.

There's a world of daring adventures on the Schmittenhöhe mountain. Schmidolin’s baptism of fire trail includes an adventure workbook to keep the children amused while they solve tricky tasks and pass tests of courage along the way. Complete the booklet for a surprise at the end.

We’ve included up to two full-day walks per week in Zell am See, just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks in Zell am See are run by Petra Bleimschein.

In Summer 25, walks are available from 26 May - 11 Sep. There are 4 walks to choose from each week, and each walk has a limited number of spaces. You can choose up to two per person, per week. Most walks require the use of public buses and/or mountain lifts which may be payable locally. You can add the walks onto your holiday by calling us.

The Summer 25 walking program is shown below.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details. 

Our guided walks in Zell am See

A unique and exciting experience in nature, this route starts at the top of the Sonnkogel lift (1,832m) ascending to the summit of the Sonnkogel viewpoint (1,856m) follows the Höhenpromenade (high-altitude promenade) trail below the ridge to the Schmittenhöhe (1,965m)– along the way the views are incredible and far reaching, and the scenic view telescopes help you identify the peaks that you’re looking at. To the north - Kalkalpen range including Wilder Kaiser, the Steinernen Meer range and the Hochkönig. To the south - the Hohe Tauren range including glaciers of Grossglockner, the Kitzsteinhorn and the Grossvenediger. The descent from Schmittenhöhe back to Zell am See is via the Schmittenhöhenbahn or TrassXpress cable car.

  • Grade: easy (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 3km
  • Walking time: approx. 2.5 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 140m ascent and 25m descent
  • Terrain: mainly mountain path or forest/gravel trail (can be uneven and steep in places)
  • Useful information: there will be a lunch stop at Schmittenhöhe (payable locally). This walk requires the use of a chair lift and cable car (included for guests with the Zell am See Summer Card and payable locally for others).

In Summer 25, this walk will run every Monday.

Zell Am See Sigmund Thun Klamm

The Sigmund-Thun Gorge is a natural wonder just outside Kaprun. We start with a walk through the gorge, up 263 steps along well secured wooden walkways that cling to the rock walls. The narrow gorge opens up and we come to the crystal-clear, turquoise glimmering water of Klammsee. This is one of the most beautiful lakes with its mountain backdrop. After break at the Klammseestüberl we continue along the river Kapruner Ache to the impressive Kessefall gorge.

  • Grade: easy (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 7km
  • Walking time: approx. 4 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 250m ascent
  • Terrain: mainly mountain path, wooden path/steps (can be quite uneven and steep in places)
  • Useful information: there will be a lunch stop at the Klamseestüberl (payable locally). This walk requires the use of bus number 660 (free for everyone), then entry to the Sigmund Thun Klamm (included for guests with the Zell am See Summer Card, payable locally for others).

In Summer 25, this walk will run every Tuesday.

Zell Am See High Altitude Reservoirs Kaprun

An unforgettable trip to the two high mountain reservoirs Wasserfallboden and Mooserboden at 2,000m – a marvel of engineering surrounded by impressive 3,000m snow-covered peaks and hanging glaciers. There’s also the chance to spot marmots and lots of Alpine flowers.

Part of the route walks on the dam walls to the Electricity & Ice Adventure Centre at the 2,000m, where we discover interesting facts about the interaction between glacier, power plant construction and electricity generation.

  • Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 7km
  • Walking time: approx. 4 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 100m ascent and 300m descent
  • Terrain: mainly mountain path, forest/gravel trail or road (can be quite uneven and steep in places)
  • Useful information: there will be a lunch stop at the Mooserboden or Fürthermoaralm (payable locally). This walk requires the use of bus number 660 from Zell am See train station to Kaprun Kesserfall (free for everyone), then the bus from there to the reservoirs (included for guests with the Zell am See Summer Card, payable locally for others).

In Summer 25, this walk will run every Wednesday.

Our walk starts at the top station of the CityXpress (1,326m) on an easy accessible hiking trail (No.55) taking us to the reservoir of Plettsau (1,295m). From there we continue towards valley to the cosy mountain hut of Ebenbergalm (994m) with most beautiful view of Zell am See and the surrounding mountains. After little stop there we return on the trail to Zell am See.

  • Grade: moderate (good fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 8km
  • Walking time: approx. 3.5 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 450m descent
  • Terrain: mainly mountain path or forest trail (can be uneven and steep in places)
  • Useful information: there will be a lunch stop at Ebenbergalm (payable locally). This walk requires the use of a cable car (included for guests with the Zell am See Summer Card and payable locally for others).

In Summer 25, this walk will run every Thursday.

Our favourite self-guided walks in Zell am See

  • Grade: Easy 
  • Distance: 4km 
  • Walking time: 1 hour 15 minutes 
  • Terrain: Wide, chalky footpath, wooden bridges, slippery sections in the gorge 

The walk begins at the Sigmund Thun Klamm reservoir and offers two routes: a short but dramatic gorge path with steep steps and wooden walkways, or a quieter forest trail that weaves through the trees. Both meet at the lakeside path around Klammsee, where calm water and forested slopes set the tone. The Klammsee Stuberl café offers a scenic place to sit and enjoy the view before continuing towards the Panorama Bahn lift station. 

  • Grade: Moderate 
  • Distance: 9.5km 
  • Walking time: 4 hours 
  • Terrain: Tarmac road 

Linking the Mooserboden dam to Kesselfall, this route traces the path once used by prisoners forced to work on the region’s hydroelectric system during WWII. The walk runs alongside steep mountainsides, lakes, and reservoirs, with clear views of glaciers overhead. Although some stretches follow a paved road, the route is rich in history and framed by dramatic alpine scenery. At the end, there are several additional activities on offer, from a museum to a nearby zipline. 

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging 
  • Distance: 8.5km 
  • Walking time: 3.5–4 hours 
  • Terrain: Mixed terrain, narrow footpaths, rocky sections 

This high-level ridge walk links Maiskogel and Kitzsteinhorn, with big views across the mountains and very few crowds. The route climbs steadily through forest and pasture before narrowing to a more rugged alpine path, including a short rope-assisted section. It’s best tackled in good conditions and suits confident hikers with a head for heights. Glaciers and high peaks dominate the skyline, creating a striking backdrop to the walk. 

Our accommodations in Zell am See

Discover Zell am See

  • Watch the spectacular fountain show from Elisabeth Park and unwind with a scenic cruise on Lake Zell
  • Hike a stretch of the breath-taking Hohe Tauern Panorama Trail, starting from the Schmittenhöhe mountain and descending into town
  • Enjoy two guided walks per week with Inghams holidays to Zell am See, perfect for exploring the stunning surroundings

Zell am See offers an unforgettable summer holiday on the shores of Lake Zell, framed by the grassy Pinzgau hills and the rugged Hohe Tauern National Park. Adventure seekers can explore the Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak, while nature lovers can enjoy over 400 kilometres of walking paths, from lakeside strolls to panoramic hikes. With trails easily accessible by bus, train, or mountain lifts, this is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Plan your Zell am See holiday today and discover why it’s one of Austria’s top summer destinations.

Zell am See is a timeless destination for summer holidays, blending natural beauty, rich history, and lakeside charm. Once a retreat for aristocrats, this picturesque town is a haven of history and culture, featuring cosy pavement cafés serving local delights like Pinzgauer kasnock’n dumplings, and sights like the Romanesque Church of St. Hippolyte with its gothic vaults and baroque interior.

In summer, the crystal-clear Lake Zell becomes the heart of Zell am See. Take to the water with activities like paddle-boarding, rowing, wakeboarding. Or on a scenic boat cruise connecting quaint lakeside towns, lidos, and peaceful parks. For those who prefer to stay on land, the 11-kilometre promenade around the lake is an easy and scenic walk, offering mountain views at every turn.

Zell am See is a perfect family holiday destination, offering activities for all ages. Cycle scenic trails, pedal on the lake, or relax at the lakeside lidos. Take a gondola up the family-friendly Schmittenhöhe mountain for a dragon-themed playground, mystical forest trail, and stunning views. Nearby Kaprun’s Maiskogel mountain adds even more fun with a mountain coaster, play areas, and a slide park. For even more fun, the Tourist Office runs a brilliant kids’ programme on selected summer dates, with everything from gemstone hunts and baking classes to castle visits and climbing towers—some even let the grown-ups join in (just don’t forget to book). Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, Zell am See family holidays are packed with memorable experiences.

The Alpine town of Kaprun is only a short bus ride south where cable cars connect adventurers to Kitzsteinhorn and Salzburgerland's highest viewing platform, the ‘Top of Salzburg’, which reveals the summits of Hohe Tauern National Park. The Sigmund Thun Gorge is worth a visit too, with wooden walkways that traverse the dramatic rock walls above rushing waters.

Zell am See's railway station cemented the town as a sought-after summer spot and trains connect day-trippers to Krimml Waterfalls - the staggering falls drop a total of 380 metres over three stages. Cities like Kitzbühel are within easy train reach too, and excursions to Salzburg, Grossglockner and Berchtesgaden (famous for the Eagle's Nest) are also available.

Getting around Zell am See and the surrounding Pinzgau region is easy thanks to the Mobility Card which is given to you by your hotel (if you’re in a hotel that offers the Zell am See Summer Card, then the mobility card is included as part of that). With the mobility card, you can travel free of charge on the public transport network, including Postbus, trains and the Pinzgau local railway – the only exceptions are the steam trains, special trails, night bus and mountain lifts/cable cars.

Buses

A great network of Postbuses link Zell am See to neighbouring villages like Kaprun, exciting day trip locations like the Sigmund Thun Gorge and mountain destinations like Saalbach Hinterglemm. Route maps and timetables are available locally.

Trains

Zell am See train station really put the town on the map and makes it easy to connect to other larger places like Kitzbühel and Salzburg and you can also visit Krimml waterfalls.

Mountain lifts

There’s a range of lifts on the Schmittenhöhe (Zell am See’s “home” mountain) and on the Kitzsteinhorn mountain in Kaprun that make accessing great walking routes, viewpoints and attractions really easy. Opening dates of summer lifts vary, please find the latest update for the summer:

  • Schmittenhöhebahn (normally open from 9 May - 6 Oct)
  • Sonnenalmbahn & Sonnkogelbahn (normally open from 18 May - 3 Nov)
  • TrassXpress (normally open from 18 May – 2 Jun and 29 Jun – 15 Sept)
  • cityXpress (normally open from 18 May - 2 Jun and 15 Jun - 15 Sep)
  • Maiskogelbahn, Kaprun (normally open from 18 May)
  • Gletscherjet, Kaprun (normally open year-round)
  • 3K-Konnection, Kaprun (normally open all summer)

(Please note these dates are approximate and subject to change)

Some lifts are included if you have the Zell am See Summer Card which is available from selected hotels.

Zell am See Summer Card

Hotel Romantik, Fish'Inn Zell and Hotel Berner hotels include the Zell am See Summer Card during your stay. It's valid from around mid-May and includes:

  • Free use of lifts in Zell am See
  • Free use of most Kaprun lifts up to 3,029m Top of Salzburg (lifts included are the Maiskogel and all lifts on the Talstation side, but not the connection 3K K-onnection that connects the two sides – there’s a surcharge of approx. €21 for this)
  • Free weekly round trip boat ride on Lake Zell
  • Free entrance to Krimml Waterfalls and Sigmund Thun Klamm
  • Entry to Kaprun high mountain reservoirs
  • Free entrance to lakeside lidos and swimming pools
  • Travel on public transport to many other local attractions (exc. steam/special trains and night bus)
  • and much more

Subject to change.

Guests staying in hotels that don't include the summer card will need to pay locally for lifts and attractions.

Zell am See Mobility Card (included for all hotels)

The mobility card is available for everyone and is given to you by your hotel reception. If you have the Zell am See Summer Card, then your mobility card is included as part of this.

With the mobility card, you can travel free of charge on the public transport network, including Postbus, trains and the Pinzgau local railway – the only exceptions are the steam trains, special trails, night bus and mountain lifts/cable cars.

Travel to Zell am See

Travel by air

Flights to Innsbruck and Salzburg depart on Saturdays or Wednesdays between 24 May - 4 Oct 25 and 23 May - 19 Sep 26

Fly to Salzburg from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only), Birmingham (Saturday only), Newcastle (Saturday only) or Glasgow (Saturday only)

Fly to Innsbruck from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only) Birmingham (Saturday only) or Edinburgh (Saturday only)

Transfer time:

  • Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes by coach from Salzburg
  • Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes by coach from Innsbruck

Please be aware transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Things to do in Zell am See

This spectacular journey takes you over the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, an incredible feat of engineering with stunning views. From the Franz-Josef's Höhe you'll see the Pasterze glacier and maybe catch a glimpse of 3,798-metre summit of the Grossglockner. Keep a look out for the wild marmots and Ibex too - they love the high alpine conditions. You can visit the free museums and exhibitions to learn about the National Park or enjoy a walk round the area and a tasty Austrian mountain meal.

Departs: Thursdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Salzburg is a city full of culture, history and music. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, enjoy the view from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or wander the famous Getreidegasse shopping street. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the medieval Old Town, discover museums and Baroque churches or visit the Salzburg Residenz Palace - the DomQuartier. There is an optional guided walking tour which is a great way to see more of the city (payable locally, approx. €12 per person).

Departs: Wednesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Family Boat Hire On Lake Zell

The lake isn't just for swimming or cruising - Lake Zell has a wide selection of on-water activities and rentals to keep you busy during those warm summer days. Make your way around the lake to discover new activities every day.

You can take the kids on a rented kayak, stand-up paddle boards, water trampolines and so much more. One of the most popular family water adventures is hiring a pedalo. Children love the little slide off the back and there's a chance to spot the fish too.

Image: (copyright Zell Am See Kaprun Tourismus)

Kitzsteinhorn Nationalpark Gallery Viewing Platform

Bordering the Hohe Tauern National Park, Gipfelwelt 3000 offers a unique view of the glaciated peaks. Watch the scenery change as you go by cable car from green meadows to snow-covered peaks in under an hour. Have your camera at the ready, there is a thrilling viewing platform at the top, right over the edge of the mountain.

Image: (copyright Kitzsteinhorn)

Zell Am See Gravel Biking

The cycling in the Zell am See Kaprun region is extensive. E-biking, gravel biking, freeriding and mountain biking - there's so many routes and marked trails, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The bike maps display a range of tours with everything from beginner trails to longer and more challenging routes for eager cyclists.

Image: Copyright Salzburgerland Tourismus

Ms Schmittenhohe Lake Zell

Enjoy 360-degree views from the boat deck as you glide across Lake Zell, glass of wine (or coffee) in-hand - you can get lunch on board too. There's four boats on the lake, offering leisurely round-trip cruises, or direct crossings to villages across the lake where you can explore further.

Image: (copyright Expa Pictures)

Golf In Zell Am See Kaprun

If you're a keen golfer then Zell am See is great - with two 18-hole golf courses and a driving range the range of facilities is incredible. The Schmittenhohe and Kitzsteinhorn courses present picture-perfect maintained chipping greens, allowing you to get the perfect shot.

Image: (copyright Zell Am See Kaprun Tourismus)

E Motocrosspark Schmittenhohe

Take the children to top of the areitXpress where Schmidolin has created a real-life hot-wheels adventure; for ages six and above. Ride the electric bikes around the circuit after gearing up with safety helmets, knee pads and themed clothing. Children do not have to have any previous experience as complete beginners will have on-site instructions provided.

Zell Am See Lido

The three lidos on Lake Zell are hotspots for water babies. The closest lido is on the lake front in Zell am See, and the others are in Thumersbach and Schüttdorf - great for breaking up a lake-side walk. Grab a paddleboard and float on the calm lake waters, or zip down the slide into the pool. You can also enjoy the sectioned off toddler pool at the lido, great for the little ones to have some fun too.

There's a few options for you to choose from on this interesting trip to Berchtesgaden. Spend the day discovering the pretty Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden itself, or choose one of the optional extras that you can add on to your day (difference payable locally).

The most famous is the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest). Explore the historic building and surrounding area, with spectacular views on a clear day over the King's Lake. The house is famous for being Nazi-constructed and was used for government and social meetings by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Alternatively, head underground to see the Salt Mines. A network of tunnels and slides take you on an underground adventure discovering this once very important industry (optional add-ons are payable locally - Eagle's Nest approx. €31.90 per person, Salt Mines approx. €25.50 per person).

Departs: Tuesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Rattenberg centre

Discover some of the area's best kept secrets on this trip which combines three unique destinations. Our first 'treasure' is Kufstein, located on the banks of the River Inn. You'll have time to explore and admire this border town with its dominating Fortress. Next, you're off to the beautiful Thiersee lake, surrounded by forests and steeped in folklore. Our final destination is Rattenberg, rich in history and famous for Kisslinger glass - watch a glass-blowing demonstration and explore the picturesque streets of this tiny city.

Departs: Fridays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: Rattenberg centre (copyright: Alpbachtal Tourismus Rattenberg)

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