Set by a picturesque lake, Zell am See is one of Austria's most cherished ski destinations. This medieval town offers a unique blend of diverse skiing terrains and ensures a snow-sure experience, thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Beyond the slopes, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Lake Zell and surrounding mountains, complemented by a lively nightlife. Its proximity to Salzburg and an array of off-slope activities make it an appealing choice for both skiing aficionados and those seeking a serene alpine getaway. As one of the top Austrian ski resorts, Zell am See provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
We've put this practical guide together to make planning your Zell am See ski holiday a breeze. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or unwind after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Ready to jump in? Let's get started!
Zell am See is situated beside Lake Zell in the Salzburg province of Austria.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Snowsure glacier skiing | Few challenges for expert skiers |
| Excellent ski schools making it a favourite for families and first-time skiers. | Snow quality can suffer on lower slopes during sunny days |
| Modern & efficient lift system | Possible morning queues for lifts |
| Town with a picture-postcard feel | Limited local slopes need to travel to other areas for more variety |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Zell am See has to offer.
(Ref: Ski Resort Videos)
For those new to skiing, Zell am See provides the ideal setting. Two low-level beginner areas, Schüttdorf and Schmittental, offer the perfect start, complemented by the gentle Kids Slope. The City Xpress gondola and the interconnected region of Saalbach and Hinterglemm further make the progression from the nursery slope to the mountain effortlessly enjoyable.
For intermediate skiers the Schmittenhöhe mountain offers a diverse mix of tree-lined valley runs and open slopes, with the Sonnenalm and the Areit side providing especially delightful red runs. The interconnected Saalbach/Hinterglemm Ski Circus, which includes Fieberbrunn, Bernkogel, and Reiterkogel, is another treasure trove of blue and red runs.
Seasoned skiers will find a good measure of challenge and thrill. Zell am See's Sonnenalm boasts off-piste opportunities and moguls, while runs such as Abfahrt 13 and 14 offer immaculate grooming and a worthy challenge. The nearby Zwölferkogel in Hinterglemm, with its World Cup black descent and the Schattberg North Descent in Saalbach, provide an exhilarating experience for those seeking tougher terrains.
While off-piste options within Zell am See are somewhat limited due to thickly wooded slopes, the offerings, especially around the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, are noteworthy. Here, skiers can immerse themselves in pristine powder snow surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Marked routes ensure safety, while the freeride information centre in Kaprun provides essential safety updates.
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier stands as a testament to high-altitude skiing, boasting a range from gentle blues to steep blacks. Apart from the ski delights, the Gletscher Terrain park beckons freestylers with its half pipes, jumps, and rails, while the Gipfelwelt 3000 summit station offers a panoramic coffee break.
From the new fun park on Schmitten to the extensive blues and reds on Sonnenalm, snowboarders have lots to explore. Hinterglemm stands out for its floodlit nightpark, suitable for both novices and experts. The park offers an array of obstacles, making it a favorite among freestyle enthusiasts.
The ski season in Zell am See typically runs from early December to mid April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Zell am See ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Zell am See offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 19 cm (7.4 in) and 25 cm (9.8 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.1 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 21 cm (8.2 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Zell am See, with an impressive 33 cm (12.9 in) of snow over 3.7 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm (4.7 in) of snow over 1.9 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 19 cm | 3.0 days |
| January | 25 cm | 3.4 days |
| February | 21 cm | 3.3 days |
| March | 16 cm | 3.0 days |
| April | 12 cm | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Download Zell am See resort map here
