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Lake Zell: A Sparkling Jewel of the Austrian Alps

Experience the pristine beauty of Lake Zell: swim, sail, and soak in the breathtaking alpine scenery in the heart of Austria.

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Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Lake Zell (Zeller See) is a stunning freshwater lake that offers crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain views. Named after the charming town of Zell am See, this picturesque lake is a haven for swimmers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Lake Zell

  • Zell am See, AT

Local tips

  • Take a boat trip on the lake for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Zell am See.
  • Enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake's crystal-clear waters at one of the lidos.
  • Rent a bike and cycle along the scenic lakeside promenade.
  • In winter, experience the magic of ice skating on the frozen lake.
  • Consider purchasing the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card for free access to many attractions, including boat trips and cable cars.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Zell am See train station, walk straight towards the lake. Cross the main road at the pedestrian crossing and continue towards the lake promenade. The lakefront is easily accessible within a 5-10 minute walk from most central locations. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, take any of the local bus lines (660, 70, or 71) to the Zell am See Postplatz or Zell am See Bahnhof (train station) stop. From Postplatz, walk along Seegasse towards the lake. From the Bahnhof, follow the walking directions as described above. A single bus fare without the Guest Mobility Ticket is approximately €3.10. The Guest Mobility Ticket Salzburg, provided by accommodations in Zell am See-Kaprun, covers the cost of local bus and train transport.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Zell am See. Request a ride to the lakefront. A short taxi ride from the train station or other central locations will typically cost between €8-€15, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate towards the town center of Zell am See and follow signs for 'See' (lake). Limited short-term parking is available near the lake, with a maximum stay of 3 hours. Parking fees are approximately €1.50-€2.00 per hour. Alternatively, use the Parkhaus Zentrum (city center parking garage), a short walk from the lake; hourly rates are similar. Parking can be scarce during peak season. Some hotels charge around EUR 12.00 per day for parking.

  • Ferry

    To reach different points around Lake Zell, a ferry service is available. The MS Grossglockner departs from Zell am See every half hour during the summer. A single crossing costs €4.60, and a round trip costs €7.70. Dogs are allowed on the ferry for a fee of €2.00.

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Discover more about Lake Zell

Lake Zell, or Zeller See, is a captivating alpine lake that has been shaped by glacial activity over millennia. The lake is approximately 4 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, with a depth of up to 73 meters. Its pristine waters are fed by numerous mountain streams, contributing to its exceptional clarity and drinking water quality. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Hohe Tauern and the Steinernes Meer mountains, Lake Zell offers a breathtaking panorama. The town of Zell am See lies on a small delta that juts into the lake, adding to the area's charm. The lake's shoreline is dotted with lidos (bathing beaches) in Zell am See, Thumersbach and Schüttdorf, inviting visitors to relax and soak up the sun. Lake Zell is a hub of activity throughout the year. In summer, the lake comes alive with swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Ferries connect Zell am See with other lakeside villages. In winter, the lake transforms into a vast ice rink, perfect for skating and other winter sports. The lake's history is intertwined with the development of Zell am See. Originally a market town known as 'Zelle im Pinzgau,' the area gained prominence with the construction of the railway line in 1875, which helped transform it into a popular tourist destination. For a time, ice harvested from the frozen lake was a significant source of income for the region. Today, Lake Zell continues to be the heart of the Zell am See-Kaprun region, attracting visitors from around the world.

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