The town of Kaprun in the Austrian Alps is not only one of the most famous ski regions in Austria, but also a popular backdrop for hikers and excursionists outside the winter months. With impressive nature and of course the perfect backdrop for one or two attempts at winter sports, the region knows how to attract holidaymakers from Europe and all over the world. It is above all the fact that Kaprun is not only a popular destination in winter that ensures that you should take a closer look at the offers on site.
Zell am See and Kaprun – between hiking and winter sports
The district of Zell am See is probably one of the most beautiful areas that Austria has to offer. In front of an impressive backdrop, a whole area of hotels and guesthouses has been built up, which are available all year round for the needs of holidaymakers. It’s a bit as if Kaprun were one city in the months between April and October and completely different just in time for the first snowfall in the Austrian Alps. In summer, the company mainly works with tourists who have come to the city for hiking and recreation. Culture is on the agenda and everything moves a little slower. This changes with the target group, which is looking for fun, excitement and, of course, relaxation here in winter.
With around 2.5 million overnight stays, Kaprun and the Zell am See area are one of the most popular areas in the whole of Austria. This is certainly also due to the fact that with the adjacent glacier areas, skiing is theoretically available as an option all year round. In fact, however, actual tourism traffic usually only begins with the onset of winter. The rest of the year, hikes lead into the mountains and offer a view of the incredible natural scenery that this region has to offer. Holidaymakers can either plan their hikes on their own or take part in guided hikes, which sometimes include an overnight stay in a mountain hut.
Hikes and discoveries – Kaprun in the summer months
The magic of Kaprun and Zell am See can only really be discovered once you have undertaken a comprehensive hike in the region. Along the Alps, for example, there is the famous Kaprun Castle, which was built in the late Middle Ages and still rises defiantly from its rock above the region. A classic destination for many hikes that start from Kaprun. The hiking trail usually continues through the Sigmund-Thun-Klamm, a small gorge with a waterfall and an impressive natural spectacle to the Mooserboden dam. From here you have an impressive view over the landscape and the unique nature that Kaprun and Zell am See have to offer.
Kaprun as a centre for winter sports in Austria
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier area at an altitude of around 3,000 metres is the core of the Kaprun ski area and attracts holidaymakers from all over the world to a great ride on the ski slopes. The associated glacier lift, which takes people to the lofty heights, was completely rebuilt after the disaster in the past and is now one of the most modern glacier lifts that can be found in the Alps. The Maiskogel ski area expands the offer for winter sports fans in the region and offers a great alternative to the route on the glacier with different slopes and different levels of difficulty, especially for experienced ski fans.
Of course, winter sports are not just associated with skiing or snowboarding. It also always depends on the infrastructure that is offered in the respective places. Kaprun therefore offers different packages for different requirements. First of all, it should be noted that there are a variety of hotels, hostels and accommodations in Zell am See where you can stay during the season. There are also the right alternatives for different budgets. While a simple hostel is already available at reasonable prices, it has been adapted to travelers who are looking for relaxation in addition to winter sports.
The thermal baths, which were discovered during an excavation in Kaprun Castle, now feed a spa in the village and thus offer just the right option for relaxation in addition to the actual accommodation. Here you can relax in the warm springs and take care of your battered bones and muscles after a long day.
Of course, there is also everything you could wish for in a ski resort. Après-ski is just as much a topic here as a selection of good restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat and various options for excursions. The offer for hikes is also available in winter and can offer a great change from winter spots in the region’s ski resorts.
