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Plettsaukopf Reservoir: Alpine Serenity Above Zell am See

Discover Plettsaukopf Reservoir: A stunning alpine lake near Zell am See offering recreation and panoramic views for the whole family.

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Plettsaukopf Reservoir, nestled high on the Schmittenhöhe mountain near Zell am See, Austria, is a picturesque alpine lake offering stunning panoramic views and family-friendly recreation. Originally a water reservoir, it has transformed into a beloved destination for swimming, hiking, and enjoying the serene mountain scenery.

A brief summary to Plettsaukopf Reservoir

Local tips

  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the reservoir, taking advantage of the scenic views and comfortable seating areas.
  • Bring swimwear for children to fully enjoy the water playground during the summer months.
  • Check the operating hours of the CityXpress gondola in advance, especially during the off-season.
  • Consider hiking boots if you plan to explore the trails beyond the immediate vicinity of the reservoir.
  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Zell am See's train station or Postplatz bus terminal, take bus number 660 towards Kaprun. Alight at the 'Schmittenhöhebahn' stop. From there, walk approximately 200m along Schmittenstraße to the CityXpress valley station. Purchase a CityXpress ticket (€31 round trip). The gondola will take you to the mountain station, a short, easy walk to the Plettsaukopf Reservoir. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings. A single bus fare is approximately €2-€3.

  • Walking

    For a scenic and active approach, hike from Zell am See to Plettsaukopf Reservoir. Begin at the CityXpress valley station (easily reached from the town center). Follow hiking trail no. 50 to the CityXpress mountain station, then continue on hiking trail no. 55 to the Plettsaukopf Reservoir. The hike is approximately 3.4 km uphill and takes around 1.5 - 2 hours. Ensure you have sturdy shoes and water. Note that you can also take the CityXpress gondola (€31 round trip) to avoid the initial ascent.

  • Driving

    If driving from Zell am See, navigate towards the CityXpress valley station (Franz-Wisgrill-Strasse, 5700 Zell am See). Parking is available in the APCOA Rathaus underground car park (Hypolithstrasse 2, 5700 Zell am See), a short walk from the CityXpress. Parking fees apply. From the parking garage, walk approximately 200m along Hypolithstrasse to Gartenstrasse and turn right to the CityXpress valley station. Purchase a CityXpress ticket (€31) for a round trip. The gondola will take you to the mountain station, a short, easy walk to the Plettsaukopf Reservoir. Parking fees at the APCOA Rathaus are approximately €2.50 per hour.

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Discover more about Plettsaukopf Reservoir

Plettsaukopf Reservoir, situated at 1,328 meters on the Schmittenhöhe near Zell am See, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational fun. Known as the 'Lake for Families,' this man-made reservoir provides a refreshing alpine escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Created initially as a water reservoir, Plettsaukopf has evolved into a popular recreational area, especially in the summer. The reservoir's clear waters are ideal for a swim, offering a cool respite from the summer heat. Families can enjoy the dedicated water playground with features like a play ship and sandpit. Comfortable seating areas surround the reservoir, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the views. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the water, a well-maintained circular path meanders around the lake, providing an easy hike for all fitness levels. The trail offers varied perspectives of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape, with strategically placed benches. For a more challenging hike, Plettsaukopf serves as a starting point for trails that wind through the Schmittenhöhe. In winter, Plettsaukopf transforms into a serene landscape of ice and snow, offering opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing. The Schmittenhöhe has also been designated Austria's first 'art and culture mountain', with artistic masterpieces scattered around, creating a unique connection between nature and culture.

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