Key facts at a glance
Summer in Zell am See revolves around the swimmably warm Zeller See (often 21–24 °C), hikes on the Schmittenhöhe and in the Hohe Tauern National Park, and trips to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier and the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße. The season runs roughly from May to October.
Part of our complete guide: Summer in Zell am See & Kaprun
If you’re dreaming of a summer escape that combines crystal-clear alpine lakes, dramatic mountain scenery, and endless outdoor adventures, look no further than Zell am See. Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, this charming lakeside town delivers everything a summer traveller could wish for. Whether you’re drawn to the shimmering waters of the Zeller See, the high-alpine thrills above Kaprun, or the quiet trails winding through flower-dotted meadows, a Zell am See summer is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve packed your bags.
Why Visit Zell am See in Summer?
Summer — roughly June through September — transforms the Zell am See–Kaprun region into one of Austria’s most exciting outdoor playgrounds. The snow retreats to the highest peaks, revealing a lush green landscape that feels almost impossibly beautiful. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 28°C in July and August, making it perfect for both water sports and mountain activities. For the ideal balance of weather, open trails, and manageable crowds, aim for late June or early September.
Top Things to Do in Zell am See in Summer
Swimming and Water Sports at the Zeller See
The centrepiece of any Zell am See summer is the Zeller See itself. This glacier-fed lake stays swimmable throughout summer, with water temperatures reaching up to 23°C in July and August. The town’s main lido (Strandbad) offers clean sandy areas, sun loungers, and excellent facilities. The lake is also a hub for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. Rental operators line the shores so you can be out on the water within minutes of arriving.
Boat Trips on the Lake
One of the most relaxing summer activities in Zell am See is taking a leisurely electric boat trip around the Zeller See. The boat service runs regular circuits of the lake, stopping at charming lakeside villages along the way. It’s a brilliant way to appreciate the scale of the surrounding mountains from a different perspective.
Riding the Schmittenhöhe Cable Car
The Schmittenhöhe, at 1,965 metres, is Zell am See’s signature mountain. The cable car whisks you to the summit where, on a clear day, the panoramic views stretch across 30 mountain peaks including the Grossglockner and Kitzsteinhorn glacier. At the summit you’ll find excellent hiking trails and a mountain restaurant with a view that never gets old.
Hiking Around Zell am See and Kaprun
The region has over 350 kilometres of marked hiking trails for every level. Families love the gentler trails around the Schmittenhöhe summit, while adventurous hikers head to Kaprun for high-alpine routes with dramatic glacier backdrops. The Pinzgauer Spaziergang — a legendary ridge walk stretching from the Schmittenhöhe — is widely considered one of the most scenic hikes in Austria.
Exploring the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
One of the most extraordinary Kaprun summer experiences is a visit to the Kitzsteinhorn, a 3,029-metre glacier peak accessible by cable car from Kaprun. Even in the height of summer you’ll find snow up top — a surreal contrast to the warm green valleys below. The Kitzsteinhorn is home to the Ice Arena, a walk-through experience inside the glacier itself, as well as viewing platforms and mountain restaurants.
Mountain Biking
The region has invested heavily in its mountain biking infrastructure. Downhill trails, flow tracks, and cross-country routes fan out across the mountains, with cable cars doubling as bike lifts. Beginners will find plenty of manageable trails, while experienced riders can challenge themselves on technical singletrack descents. Bike rental and guided tours are available in Zell am See town centre.
The Sigmund Thun Gorge
Just outside Kaprun, the Sigmund Thun Gorge (Seisenbergklamm) is one of the region’s most spectacular natural wonders. Wooden walkways cling to the walls of a narrow gorge carved by the roaring Kapruner Ache river, offering an exhilarating 30-minute walk through a cathedral of rock and water. Arrive early in the morning for the best light.
Kaprun Reservoir and the High Mountain Road
The Kaprun reservoir (Stausee Mooserboden) is one of Europe’s largest high-altitude reservoirs. Shuttle buses from Kaprun climb through mountain tunnels to a barrage overlooking a dramatic turquoise lake hemmed in by rocky peaks — Austria’s engineering ambition at its most impressive. The hiking around the reservoir is exceptional.
Hidden Gems and Day Trips
The Pinzgau Lokalbahn narrow-gauge heritage railway runs west through picturesque villages to Krimml — home to the famous Krimmler Waterfalls, the highest in Austria. A half-day excursion to Krimml is one of the region’s great pleasures. The weekly farmers’ market in Zell am See town centre is the perfect place to stock up on local cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked bread.
What to Pack for a Zell am See Summer Holiday
- Layers: A light down jacket or fleece for cable car rides and evenings
- Hiking boots if you plan to explore trails
- Waterproof jacket for afternoon thunderstorms
- SPF 50 sunscreen — UV intensity is significantly higher at altitude
- Swimwear and towel for the lake
- Reusable water bottle — mountain spring water is delicious and free
Practical Tips for Visiting in Summer
- Zell am See–Kaprun Card: Available from most accommodation, this gives free or discounted access to cable cars, boats, and public transport — it pays for itself quickly.
- Book accommodation early: July and August fill up fast. Book at least two to three months ahead.
- Start hikes early: Alpine thunderstorms most commonly build in the early afternoon. Aim to be off high ridges by 1pm.
- Cable cars and attractions operate from late May through mid-October.
Plan Your Perfect Zell am See Summer
From the glittering shores of the Zeller See to the icy heights of the Kitzsteinhorn, a summer in Zell am See and Kaprun offers something genuinely rare. Whether you’re here for one long weekend or a full two-week escape, the region rewards every type of traveller. Explore our guides to hiking in Zell am See, things to do in Kaprun, and activities for families to complete your planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in the Zeller See?
Yes, the Zeller See has drinking-water quality and reaches pleasant swimming temperatures of often 21 to 24 °C at the height of summer. There are several lidos and free bathing spots around the lake.
What can you do in summer in Zell am See?
Swimming and boating on the lake, hiking and biking on the Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn, trips to the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße and visits to gorges and waterfalls.
When does the summer season begin and end?
The summer season runs roughly from May to October, with the best swimming and hiking between June and September.
Is Zell am See good for hikers in summer?
Very much so: from the easy lakeside loop to high-alpine tours on the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park, there's something for every level.
Can you ski on the Kitzsteinhorn in summer?
As a glacier ski area, the Kitzsteinhorn operates for much of the year. In high summer skiing is limited depending on snow conditions – but the Gipfelwelt 3000 is a year-round destination.