Schmittenhöhebahn: Gateway to Alpine Peaks and Panoramas
Ascend Schmittenhöhebahn to 2000m for Zell am See's boldest alpine views, ski runs, and trails framing Lake Zell against 3000m peaks in Hohe Tauern.
Ride the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car to 2,000 meters for sweeping views over Zell am See, Lake Zell, and the Hohe Tauern mountains. Summer hiking trails, winter ski runs, and year-round vistas make this a Zell am See essential for nature lovers seeking elevation and exhilaration.
A brief summary to Schmittenhöhebahn
- Schmittenstraße 119, Zell am See, 5700, AT
- +436542789211
- Visit website
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Hold a Zell am See-Kaprun Card for free rides in summer, covering multiple cable cars and buses.
- Pack layers; summit weather swings 10-15°C cooler than town with sudden gusts.
- Start early in peak season to beat lift queues and secure parking at the base.
- Download offline trail maps; cell signal fades on remote hikes from the top.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus line 1 or 2 from Zell am See center to Schmitten stop, 10-15 min, €3 single ticket, runs every 20-30 min.
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Walk
Steep 45-60 min uphill hike from town center along marked path, free, moderate fitness needed.
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Taxi
Taxi from center, 5-10 min, €15-20, available on demand.
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Bike
E-bike rental from town, 20-25 min uphill to base, €25 half-day, bike racks at station.
Discover more about Schmittenhöhebahn
Overview and Access
The Schmittenhöhebahn is Zell am See's premier mountain cable car, whisking visitors from Schmittenstraße 119 up to the Schmittenhöhe summit at 2,000 meters. This modern gondola system offers reliable transport to one of the region's most accessible high-alpine areas, with spacious cabins providing comfort during the short ascent. Positioned on the sunny southern slopes above town, it serves as the primary entry to expansive terrain ideal for multiple seasons.Summer Adventures
In warmer months, the summit transforms into a hiker's paradise with over 120 kilometers of marked trails radiating from the top station. Paths range from gentle family strolls around alpine meadows to challenging routes leading to nearby peaks like those in the Kitzsteinhorn area. Paragliders launch from designated spots, soaring over the emerald Lake Zell below, while mountain bikers tackle downhill tracks with berms and jumps. The panorama stretches across 30 peaks over 3,000 meters, including Grossglockner, creating postcard-perfect backdrops at every turn.Winter Skiing Haven
During the snow season from early December to early April, Schmittenhöhe becomes a ski resort with 12 lifts serving 40 kilometers of groomed pistes suited for all levels. Sunny exposures ensure optimal conditions, with wide blues for beginners, reds carving through forests, and blacks delivering steep thrills. Freeriders find powder stashes off-piste, while snowboarders hit terrain parks with rails and kickers. The resort connects seamlessly with the broader Ski Alpin Card network for multi-mountain access.Scenic and Geological Highlights
At the summit, observation platforms frame unobstructed 360-degree views encompassing Lake Zell, the Salzachtal valley, and distant glaciers. The area's geology reveals ancient limestone formations from prehistoric seabeds, now etched by glacial forces into dramatic ridges. Wildflowers carpet meadows in July, chamois graze rocky outcrops, and eagles wheel overhead, immersing visitors in a pristine Tyrolean ecosystem.Year-Round Appeal and Vibe
Beyond sports, the summit hosts alpine restaurants serving regional fare amid relaxed atmospheres, perfect for lingering over coffee with vistas. The vibe shifts from bustling winter crowds to serene summer tranquility, always underscored by fresh mountain air and a sense of elevation-induced freedom. Free access with the Zell am See-Kaprun summer card enhances value for pass holders exploring the Pinzgau region's offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ebenbergbahn Topstation
1.2 km
Reach panoramic vistas above Zell am See for alpine adventures, scenic hikes, and winter sports in the Austrian Alps. A year-round destination!
Brunnen
1.7 km
Find serenity at Zell am See's Brunnen, a tranquil fountain offering a peaceful escape amidst stunning alpine scenery and urban charm.
Glocknerbahn Topstation
1.8 km
Reach breathtaking panoramic views of Zell am See and the Austrian Alps via the modern Glocknerbahn cable car. A year-round alpine escape!
Restaurant Kupferkessel - Kreml GmbH
1.8 km
A Zell am See institution serving Austrian, German & Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for families & travelers for over 40 years.
The Gast House Zell am See
1.9 km
Modern aparthotel in Zell am See, offering comfortable suites, wellness facilities, and easy access to the lake and mountains.
Stadtpl. 1
1.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty of Stadtpl. 1 in Zell am See, where history meets modern culture amid stunning alpine scenery.
Pfarrkirche hl. Hippolyt
2.0 km
Discover centuries of history and architectural beauty at Zell am See's iconic Pfarrkirche hl. Hippolyt, a testament to faith and art.
Marienkapelle
2.0 km
Discover the serene Marienkapelle in Zell am See, a historic chapel housing the revered Ährenkleidmadonna, offering a peaceful retreat into the region's spiritual heritage.
Romantik Hotel Zell am See
2.0 km
Experience historic charm and modern comfort at the Romantik Hotel Zell am See, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, near the stunning Lake Zell.
Kriegerdenkmal
2.0 km
Reflect on history and bravery at the Kriegerdenkmal in Zell am See, a serene memorial amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Friedhof Zell am See
2.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Friedhof Zell am See, a tranquil cemetery offering a unique perspective on local heritage amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Grand Hotel Zell am See
2.2 km
Experience imperial charm and modern luxury at the Grand Hotel Zell am See, a historic landmark on a private lakeside peninsula.
Casino Zell am See
2.2 km
Experience modern gaming in an alpine paradise at Casino Zell am See, with stunning views of Lake Zell and the surrounding mountains.
Schrambachkopf
2.4 km
Hike to Schrambachkopf near Zell am See for panoramic alpine views, scenic trails, and a tranquil escape into Austria's natural beauty.
Alois Latini Stadion
2.5 km
Experience Zell am See's sporting heart at Alois Latini Stadion: local matches, athletic events, and community gatherings amidst Alpine scenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gartenhotel Daxer
0.2 km
Mountain wellness sanctuary above Zell am See with authentic Austrian charm and Alpine panoramas.
Plettsaukopf Reservoir
1.4 km
Explore the enchanting Plettsaukopf Reservoir in Zell am See, a picturesque destination for swimming, hiking, and enjoying stunning mountain views.
cityXpress
1.7 km
Reach Zell am See's Schmittenhöhe in minutes via this modern city center gondola, offering year-round alpine adventures.
Eishalle Zell am See
1.7 km
Year-round ice skating and Eisstockschießen at Eishalle Zell am See, with rentals and group bookings in the Freizeitzentrum for alpine thrill without weather worries.
100° FREIZEIT ZELL AM SEE - Hallenbad
1.7 km
Alpine water escape where mountain views meet modern aquatic thrills and year-round wellness.
Ebenbergbahn Talstation
1.7 km
Ebenbergbahn Talstation launches Zell am See skiers 244m skyward to Schmittenhöhe's legendary pistes and night-lit slopes in 5-minute Doppelmayr rides.
Zell & Roll
1.8 km
Carve Alpine roads on three wheels, where solitude meets scenery around Zeller See's hidden paths.
Schmidolin Drakefire playground
1.8 km
Dragon playground on Schmittenhöhe fuses alpine climbs, puzzle trails and fire-breathing quests into kid-powered mountain escapades with lake panoramas in Zell am See.
Zell am See
1.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and year-round adventures of Zell am See, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Zell am See-Kaprun
1.9 km
Zell am See-Kaprun Visitor Center launches hikes across Schmittenhöhe trails, glacier ski prep at Kitzsteinhorn, and Lake Zell explorations in Salzburger Land's alpine core.
Museum Vogtturm
1.9 km
Uncover the history and culture of Zell am See at the captivating Museum Vogtturm, a modern gem for all ages.
Brunnen am Stadtplatz
2.0 km
Discover the charm of Zell am See at Brunnen am Stadtplatz, a picturesque fountain surrounded by shops and cafés, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Schmidolins Feuertaufe
2.0 km
Erlebniswanderweg mit Drachenmotiven, Kletterelementen und Rätseln auf 1400m Höhe über Zell am See – wo Kinder Mut beweisen und Feuersteine sammeln.
Strandbad Zell am See
2.1 km
Where Alpine peaks meet Europe's clearest waters—action and serenity in perfect balance.
Zell am see esplanade
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Zell am See Esplanade, where stunning lake views and vibrant gardens create a perfect escape in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Essential places to dine
Flos Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience innovative Austrian cuisine at Flos Restaurant in Zell am See—where local produce meets culinary excellence.
Berghotel Blaickner's Sonnalm
1.1 km
Experience exquisite dining amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Berghotel Blaickner's Sonnalm - your perfect mountain retreat.
Kraftwerk restaurant & winebar
1.6 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Kraftwerk Restaurant & Winebar in Zell am See - where tradition meets fine dining.
Restaurant Steinerwirt
1.9 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine in a charming setting at Restaurant Steinerwirt in Zell am See.
Deins & Meins
1.9 km
Discover Deins & Meins in Zell am See: A culinary delight offering gourmet burgers and vegan specialties in a lively atmosphere.
Restaurant Cella Central
1.9 km
Discover authentic Austrian flavors at Cella Central in Zell am See - where tradition meets modern cafe culture amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Salzburgerstube
1.9 km
Experience authentic Austrian flavors at Salzburgerstube in Zell am See – where every dish tells a story.
Pizzeria Giuseppe
2.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pizzeria Giuseppe in Zell am See – where every pizza tells a story amid stunning alpine views.
Pfefferbauer
2.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Pfefferbauer in Zell am See - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking scenery.
Piazza Quattro
2.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Piazza Quattro in Zell am See—where flavor meets stunning alpine views.
Restaurant Gruener Baum
2.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking views in Zell am See at Restaurant Gruener Baum.
Yor Ribs
2.0 km
Savor the best breakfast and lunch at Yor Ribs in Zell am See – where flavor meets comfort.
Schmiedhof Alm
2.0 km
Discover Schmiedhof Alm: A Mountain Cabin Restaurant Offering Traditional Austrian Cuisine Amidst Breathtaking Alpine Views.
Villa Crazy Daisy
2.1 km
Experience vibrant dining at Villa Crazy Daisy in Zell am See - where local flavors meet international cuisine amidst a lively atmosphere.
Restaurant Ali Baba
2.1 km
Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Zell am See – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fashion Steiner
1.7 km
Explore the charm of Fashion Steiner in Zell am See, where style meets alpine allure in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Outlet Store
1.8 km
Explore the vibrant outlet store in Zell am See for the latest fashion trends and unbeatable deals amidst stunning alpine beauty.
Maison Jolie
1.8 km
Explore Maison Jolie in Zell am See for exquisite furniture and interior design advice in a stunning alpine setting.
Atelier Halili
1.8 km
Discover unique artistic souvenirs at Atelier Halili in Zell am See, where local craftsmanship meets captivating beauty.
Lisa Gundolf
1.9 km
Experience the charm of shopping at Lisa Gundolf in Zell am See, a perfect blend of retail and stunning alpine views for an unforgettable visit.
Oláh Viola
1.9 km
Explore Oláh Viola in Zell am See, a boutique clothing store offering unique alpine fashion and local craftsmanship for an unforgettable shopping experience.
FALCON LIFE & STYLE
1.9 km
Explore the latest fashion trends in Zell am See at Falcon Life & Style, a stylish clothing store offering something for everyone.
Moreboards Zell am See
1.9 km
Shop the best in sportswear and equipment at Moreboards Zell am See, your ultimate destination for adventure gear in Austria's stunning alpine region.
ZAPPELINO-TOP-Luxury Brands for Kids: Moncler, Ralph Lauren, Burberry u.v.m.: Fashionable Women's fashion and Accessoires.
1.9 km
Explore luxury children's fashion at ZAPPELINO-TOP in Zell am See, featuring top brands like Moncler, Ralph Lauren, and Burberry for stylish kids.
TOM TAILOR Store
1.9 km
Explore contemporary fashion at TOM TAILOR Store in Zell am See, with stylish clothing and accessories for both men and women.
Manner Pop-Up Shop Zell am See Stadtplatz
1.9 km
Experience the sweetness of Austria at the Manner Pop-Up Shop in Zell am See, where delicious candies and iconic wafers await every visitor.
Uschi Voithofer
1.9 km
Discover unique Austrian crafts and souvenirs at Uschi Voithofer in Zell am See, a charming store celebrating local artistry and culture.
Charriol
1.9 km
Explore the elegance of Charriol in Zell am See, a premier destination for luxury fashion accessories, jewelry, and watches.
Herzschlag Zell am See
2.0 km
Discover stylish clothing in Zell am See at Herzschlag, where fashion meets Austrian charm in a stunning alpine setting.
NKD
2.0 km
Explore NKD in Zell am See for stylish and affordable clothing for the whole family, capturing the essence of Austrian fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
CASHPOINT Wettcenter - Zell am See
1.8 km
Discover the excitement of sports betting and a vibrant bar scene at CASHPOINT Wettcenter in Zell am See for an unforgettable experience.
Lupos Bar
1.9 km
Discover the cozy Lupos Bar in Zell am See, a perfect spot to unwind with drinks after your alpine adventures.
ROOFTOP BAR - Zell am See - NO SHISHA
1.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere at Zell am See's top rooftop bar, perfect for unwinding with drinks after a day of adventure.
CastleBar
1.9 km
Discover the charm of CastleBar in Zell am See, where delightful cuisine meets stunning alpine views for an unforgettable dining experience.
GINHOUSE | Pub | Zell am See
1.9 km
Experience the lively spirit of GINHOUSE in Zell am See, where exquisite drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Austria.
RUBIX
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at RUBIX, Zell am See's top bar for creative cocktails and lively music in a friendly atmosphere.
Bernsteins Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bernsteins Bar in Zell am See, where expert mixology meets a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Lebzelter
1.9 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of Lebzelter, a charming bar in Zell am See offering a delightful selection of drinks and local culture.
Pinzgauer Diele - Pizzeria - Disco - Apres Ski
2.0 km
Experience the best of dining and nightlife at Pinzgauer Diele, Zell am See's go-to spot for authentic pizza, coffee, and dancing!
TOMS bar & lounge
2.0 km
Discover TOMS Bar & Lounge in Zell am See, a stylish bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and an extensive drink menu for an unforgettable night out.
Vineria Torre
2.0 km
Experience the enchanting ambiance, exceptional wines, and local flavors at Vineria Torre in Zell am See.
Insider Bar
2.0 km
Insider Bar in Zell am See: A Cozy Retreat for Drinks, Lively Atmosphere, and Unforgettable Memories Amidst the Austrian Alps.
senSATion Club Zell am See
2.0 km
Dance the night away at senSATion Club Zell am See, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nightlife in the Austrian Alps.
GreensXL
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Zell am See at GreensXL, a lively bar offering a rich menu of drinks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
Pop up AS Mare
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Zell am See at Pop up AS Mare, where every night is filled with great drinks and friendly faces.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Discothek Insomnia Kaprun
6.1 km
Discover the lively Discothek Insomnia in Kaprun, where unforgettable nights of dancing and music await in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Nightclub Nachtfalter
6.9 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Nachtfalter Nightclub in Kaprun, where unforgettable nights of music and dance await you.
Nachtclub Jasmin
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nachtclub Jasmin, a premier destination for dancing and socializing in Saalfelden am Steinernen Meer.
Moonlight Night Club
11.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Saalfelden at Moonlight Night Club, where dancing, music, and unique experiences await in a stunning alpine setting.
Rockfest Fusch
12.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Rockfest Fusch – where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come alive in the heart of Austria.
OFF PISTE BAR Aprés Ski Bar & Night Club Saalbach
12.5 km
Discover a lively après-ski atmosphere at OFF PISTE BAR in Saalbach, where live music and a vibrant dance scene await every night.
Schwips Club
12.5 km
Dive into the energetic nightlife of Schwips Club, where music, dancing, and vibrant social scenes come alive in Saalbach-Hinterglemm.
Après Ski & Nightclub Castello
12.6 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife of Saalbach-Hinterglemm at Après Ski & Nightclub Castello, where unforgettable parties and vibrant music await every night.
Schwips Après-Ski
12.6 km
Discover Schwips Après-Ski: a vibrant bar in Saalbach-Hinterglemm offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious drinks, and stunning mountain views.
Club Kristall
12.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Club Kristall, a premier disco club in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, perfect for dancing and unforgettable memories.
Whynot Tabledance
12.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Whynot Tabledance in Saalbach, where music and dance create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Alps.
Parasol Apres Sky
14.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Parasol Apres Sky, where après-ski fun meets stunning alpine views and refreshing drinks.
Tiergartenalm
22.7 km
Discover Tiergartenalm, an enchanting mountain cabin in Mühlbach am Hochkönig, offering delightful local cuisine and breathtaking alpine views.
Haus Noblesse
22.7 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Mittersill at Haus Noblesse, where unforgettable experiences await in a lively night club atmosphere.
Aldiana Club Hochkönig
26.6 km
Unwind in the heart of the Alps at Aldiana Club Hochkönig, where adventure and relaxation converge amidst stunning natural beauty.
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Cable Car Access
