Schmittenhöhe Zell am See
Schmittenhöhe offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Zell and the Alps, with diverse activities from summer hiking to winter skiing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Schmittenhöhe Zell am See
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Schmittenhöhe offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Zell and the Alps, with diverse activities from summer hiking to winter skiing.
"The panoramic views from Schmittenhöhe are absolutely stunning, a must-see in Zell am See!"
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🥾 Hike Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the numerous hiking trails. Check trail conditions before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views
Summit of Schmittenhöhe
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lake Zell and the surrounding Alps. A true feast for the eyes!
Themed Hiking Trails
Various paths on Schmittenhöhe
Explore unique trails like the 'Art on the Mountain' or the 'Narnia Trail' for a fun, artistic adventure.
Winter Sports Paradise
Ski slopes of Schmittenhöhe
World-class skiing and snowboarding with well-groomed slopes for all skill levels. Powder days are legendary!
Art on the Mountain
Outdoor art installations
Discover contemporary sculptures and art pieces integrated into the natural mountain landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🥾 Hike Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the numerous hiking trails. Check trail conditions before you go.
⛷️ Ski Season Bliss
Winter offers perfect skiing conditions. Early season can mean fewer crowds and fresh powder.
☀️ Summer Card Perks
Inquire about the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card for discounts on lifts and attractions.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🥾 Hike Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the numerous hiking trails. Check trail conditions before you go.
⛷️ Ski Season Bliss
Winter offers perfect skiing conditions. Early season can mean fewer crowds and fresh powder.
☀️ Summer Card Perks
Inquire about the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card for discounts on lifts and attractions.
☁️ Weather Watch
Mountain weather changes fast. Always check the forecast before heading up.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Schmittenhöhe for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Lake Zell and the surrounding Alps, making it a photographer's dream. The variety of activities, from summer hiking and themed trails to winter skiing and snowboarding, appeals to a wide range of visitors. Some find the ticket prices a bit high, and during peak season, crowds can be noticeable.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Schmittenhöhe is via the cable car from Zell am See. The 'CityXpress' gondola takes you directly up the mountain. You can also drive to a mid-station parking area and take a lift from there.
Yes, local buses frequently run to the base stations of the cable cars in Zell am See. This is a convenient option if you're not driving.
You can drive to the base station of the CityXpress in Zell am See, which has parking facilities. Some visitors also drive to the mid-station parking.
Parking is available at the base station of the CityXpress in Zell am See. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Schmittenhöhe is a major ski resort in winter, with lifts and slopes operating. Access is primarily via the ski lifts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and the type of ticket (e.g., round trip, one-way, ski pass). It's best to check the official Schmittenhöhebahn website for current pricing.
Yes, look into the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card if visiting in summer, as it often includes free or discounted lift rides. Family tickets and multi-day passes are also usually available.
For general access, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it can save time during busy periods. For specific activities like paragliding, advance booking is recommended.
Operating hours vary by season. In summer, they typically run from morning until late afternoon. In winter, they align with ski resort hours. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets online through the official Schmittenhöhebahn website, which can be a convenient way to save time.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Schmittenhöhe offers a wide range of activities including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and enjoying the panoramic views in summer. In winter, it's a premier destination for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking.
Yes, there are several mountain restaurants and huts on Schmittenhöhe offering traditional Austrian cuisine and refreshments with stunning views.
Schmittenhöhe is very family-friendly, with themed trails like the 'Narnia Trail' and gentle slopes for beginners in winter. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options.
This is an outdoor exhibition featuring contemporary art installations scattered across the mountain, blending art with nature. It's a unique way to experience the landscape.
Yes, Schmittenhöhe is a popular spot for paragliding, offering incredible aerial views of the lake and mountains. Tandem flights are available for beginners.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled 360-degree views. Look for viewpoints along the hiking trails and near the mountain restaurants for diverse shots of Lake Zell and the peaks.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant peaks or wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The 'Art on the Mountain' installations offer unique photographic subjects. The themed trails, like the Narnia Trail, also provide fun photo opportunities.
Yes, the cable car ride offers fantastic opportunities to photograph the ascent and the surrounding scenery. Keep your lens cap off and be ready!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card if visiting during the warmer months, as it can significantly reduce costs for family outings. The scenic cable car rides themselves are an exciting part of the experience for younger visitors.
⛷️ Ski Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for freeride and freestyle action if you're an experienced rider. The resort often sees fantastic powder days, making it a dream for those who love off-piste adventures. Check the snow reports and consider visiting during the early or late season for potentially fewer crowds and fresh snow.
📸 Photography Buffs
Explore the 'Art on the Mountain' installations for unique photographic subjects that blend art and nature. The various viewpoints along the hiking trails offer diverse perspectives. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Schmittenhöhe in Summer
+1Beyond hiking, Schmittenhöhe is a hub for adventure activities. Paragliding offers an exhilarating way to experience the breathtaking panoramic views from above, with tandem flights available for beginners. Mountain biking trails are also popular, providing thrilling descents and scenic routes. The Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card is a must-have for visitors, offering free or discounted access to cable cars, swimming pools, and other local attractions, making your summer exploration even more rewarding.
The panoramic views are a constant highlight. From the summit, you're treated to a stunning 360-degree spectacle of Lake Zell, the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, and the surrounding Hohe Tauern mountain range. These vistas are perfect for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Austrian Alps.
Schmittenhöhe: A Winter Wonderland
Beyond downhill skiing, Schmittenhöhe offers opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing, allowing visitors to explore the snowy landscape at a more relaxed pace. The crisp mountain air and stunning winter scenery create a magical atmosphere. Many of the mountain restaurants remain open, providing cozy spots to warm up with a hot drink or a hearty meal after a day on the slopes.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, freestyle skiing and snowboarding are popular, with dedicated areas and features. The resort often experiences excellent powder days, attracting freeriders and those looking for off-piste adventures. The combination of challenging terrain, beautiful scenery, and vibrant après-ski options makes Schmittenhöhe a top winter destination.
The Culinary Delights of Schmittenhöhe
Expect hearty dishes like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake), Wiener Schnitzel, and various Goulash variations. Local specialties and seasonal offerings are common. Many places pride themselves on using fresh, regional ingredients. Don't forget to try a warming 'Jägertee' (hunter's tea) or a rich hot chocolate, especially after a day in the cold.
Some of the restaurants are accessible year-round, while others are primarily open during the winter ski season or summer hiking season. It's always a good idea to check their opening times, especially if you're visiting during the shoulder seasons. Enjoying a meal with a view is a quintessential part of the Schmittenhöhe experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit