Information
Landmark: Lake ZellCity: Zell am See
Country: Austria
Continent: Europe
Lake Zell, Zell am See, Austria, Europe
Overview
Tucked in the heart of Salzburg’s Zell am See-Kaprun region, Lake Zell-also called Zeller See-shimmers as one of Austria’s most stunning and beloved Alpine lakes.Tucked between towering peaks, it draws visitors all year with sweeping views of pine-covered slopes, plenty of outdoor adventures, and vibrant local traditions.Lake Zell sits roughly 750 meters (2,460 feet) above sea level in a valley framed by the Kitzbühel Alps and the lofty Hohe Tauern Mountains.Stretching about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long and 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) wide, it covers 4.5 square kilometers (1.7 square miles) of shimmering blue water.At its deepest point, the lake drops to around 73 meters (240 feet).The water’s so pure it meets drinking standards, making it a rare and pristine natural reservoir.All year round, the lake draws outdoor lovers for everything from summer swims to winter ice skating.In summer, the lake’s crystal-clear water-cool and fresh at 18°C to 23°C-draws swimmers to public beaches like Strandbad Zell am See, Thumersbach, and Schüttdorf, where families spread towels on the grass and sunbathers linger in the warm light.You can rent a sailboat, pedal boat, or quiet electric boat to explore the shoreline, glide over the calm surface on a stand-up paddleboard while mountains rise in the distance, or feel the wind whip past on a windsurfing run.Trails circle the lake for walkers of every pace, and cyclists often tackle the Zell am See–Kaprun loop for a mix of lakeside paths and mountain climbs.Daily boat cruises set out across the water, with guides sharing stories of the lake’s past and the landmarks that frame its blue expanse.Sunset cruises feel especially romantic, with the sky blushing pink over the water.In colder years, when the lake freezes solid, it becomes a glittering ice rink perfect for skating.Snow-draped mountains and a frozen shoreline make a dreamy backdrop for photos or slow walks.Year-round, anglers can cast for trout and pike-just bring a permit-and anyone can savor quiet moments by the Alpine shore.Stroll the Zell am See promenade for sweeping views and a bench in the sun, or cross to Thumersbach for a calmer scene.From almost anywhere, you can spot the Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn glaciers rising behind the still water.Summer brings the Zeller Seezauber light and laser show, while the Ironman 70.3 triathlon makes the lake its swimming stage.Come winter, Advent by the Lake fills the air with music, markets, and twinkling lights.All year, ducks, swans, and grebes glide across the water, part of the lake’s rich wildlife.Lake Zell’s crystal-clear waters and unspoiled surroundings nurture a thriving ecosystem, with nearby wetlands and shady woodlands adding to its richness.You can get here by train-Zell am See’s station sits just a short stroll from the shore-by car via major roads with plenty of parking in town and nearby villages, or by air through Salzburg Airport, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away.Summer brings warm days for swimming, sailing, and hiking; winter covers the valley in snow, perfect for skiing and snowshoeing; autumn glows with golden leaves, while spring bursts with fresh blossoms.Don’t miss Schmittenhöhe for sweeping Alpine views, Kaprun’s glacier and dramatic gorge, or the cobbled streets of Zell am See’s Old Town.Whether you’re chasing adventure or a quiet moment by the water, this alpine lake offers it all.You’ve got to see it-breathtaking scenery in every direction and enough things to do, from quiet trails to buzzing markets, to fill your whole trip.
