Zell am See is a lakeside Pinzgau town with a genuine year-round dual identity. In summer, the Zeller See is clear and warm enough for swimming from June, and the Schmittenhoehe gondola above the old town gives panoramic views. In winter, the Schmittenhoehe ski area and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier via Kaprun (5km away) combine into one of the strongest ski destinations in Salzburg state. Train from Salzburg takes about 80 minutes. The pedestrianized old town on its peninsula is pleasant and proportionate. Hotels range from the historic Grand Hotel am See to well-priced mid-range options. Plan 4-7 days in either season to do justice to both the lake and the mountain access.
town
Zell am See
Zell am See has the rare quality of being genuinely attractive in both summer and winter rather than just functional in one and tolerated in the other.