Schmittenhöhebahn: Gateway to Alpine Panoramas
Ride to 1,955m where 30+ 3,000m peaks circle Zell am See, blending Porsche gondolas, historic chapels, and trails for every season's pursuit.
Ascend the Schmittenhöhebahn to 1,955 meters for sweeping views across 30 peaks over 3,000 meters, from Großglockner to Wilder Kaiser. Porsche Design gondolas deliver you to trails, the historic Sissi Chapel, and year-round mountain adventures in Zell am See's backyard.
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
- Combine with ALPIN CARD for unlimited access to linked lifts across Zell am See-Kaprun, maximizing multi-peak exploration.
- Visit the Sissi-Kapelle early to avoid crowds and pair with the 90-year history exhibit for deeper context on imperial ties.
- Opt for Gipfelstürmer-Ticket online for summit priority; it unlocks full terrain including ski runs in winter.
- Hike the Höhenpromenade with kids—it's stroller-friendly and dotted with play stations en route to viewpoints.
- Check lift statuses via official apps before ascent, as operations adjust for weather and special dates like December 24.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Public buses from Zell am See center to Schmittenstraße stop, 10-15 min ride, €3-5 one-way, frequent hourly services.
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Walking
Brisk 45-60 min uphill walk from town center along marked paths, free, moderate incline suitable for fit travelers.
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Taxi
Taxis from Zell am See center, 5-10 min, €10-15 one-way, available on-demand via apps or ranks.
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Biking
E-bike rental from town, 20-30 min pedal to base, €20-30/day, scenic route with some elevation gain.
Discover more about Schmittenhöhebahn
Panoramic Ascent and Unrivaled Vistas
The Schmittenhöhebahn stands as Zell am See's premier mountain cable car, a modern pendelbahn engineered to transport visitors from the valley floor at Schmittenstraße 119 up to the Schmittenhöhe summit at 1,955 meters. Sleek Porsche Design gondolas glide smoothly, offering initial glimpses of the Zeller See and surrounding Alps. Upon reaching the bergstation, the panorama unfolds dramatically: over 30 Dreitausender peaks dominate the horizon, including the majestic Großglockner, Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, Großvenediger, and distant Wilder Kaiser. This 360-degree spectacle positions Schmittenhöhe as Austria's most scenic viewpoint, drawing hikers, photographers, and sightseers year-round.Winter Wonderland on the Slopes
In winter, the area transforms into a ski resort hub within the Zell am See-Kaprun domain. The Schmittenhöhebahn serves as the direct lifeline to the Gipfel, accessing gentle runs like the Breiteckpiste, Kettingpiste, and Kapellenpiste. Operating typically from early December to early April, it integrates with surrounding lifts such as zellamseeXpress and Sonnenalmbahn, creating interconnected terrain for all skill levels. Families appreciate child-friendly zones like Schmidolins Drachentunnel and Zauberteppich, while advanced skiers link to broader circuits. The crisp alpine air, fresh powder, and valley descents create an exhilarating atmosphere of pure mountain thrill.Summer Trails and Cultural Echoes
Summer shifts focus to hiking and leisure, with operations spanning May to early November. Over 140 kilometers of marked trails radiate from the summit, including kinderwagentauglich promenades, adventure stations, and E-Motocross parks. The Höhenpromenade offers easy access to viewpoints, while longer routes challenge trekkers toward neighboring peaks. Cultural highlights include the Sissi-Kapelle, a quaint chapel tied to Empress Elisabeth's visits, evoking imperial hiking heritage. Nearby exhibits chronicle 90 years of Schmittenhöhe history, blending natural drama with human stories amid wildflower meadows and grazing pastures.Family Adventures and Accessibility
Designed for broad appeal, the Schmittenhöhe features playgrounds, Erlebniswege, and Abenteuerstationen that engage children alongside adults. The cable car's efficiency minimizes wait times, fostering a relaxed vibe even during peak seasons. Photopoints strategically capture iconic frames, while summit restaurants provide respite with regional fare overlooking the Salzachtal. This multifaceted destination rewards short visits with vistas alone or extended explorations via interconnected lifts like Areitbahn and cityXpress.Seasonal Rhythms and Enduring Appeal
The Schmittenhöhebahn embodies Zell am See's rhythmic alpine life, busier in high winter (December-March) for skiing and peak summer (June-August) for hiking. Its engineering prowess—45-person capacity gondolas—handles crowds seamlessly, maintaining an atmosphere of open-space freedom. Whether tracing Sisi's footsteps or conquering modern trails, visitors leave with indelible impressions of Austria's Hohe Tauern majesty, solidifying its status as a landmark of natural and engineered harmony.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brunnen
1.7 km
Where Hundertwasser's artistic vision flows with alpine waters in perfect ecological harmony.
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.
Kaprun Museum
6.1 km
Explore the cultural richness of Kaprun at the Kaprun Museum, where local history and alpine heritage come to life.
Kaprun Information (Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus GmbH)
6.3 km
Your central hub for exploring Zell am See-Kaprun: Expert travel advice, accommodation assistance, and insider tips for an unforgettable alpine experience.
View of Zell Am See
6.3 km
Capture the breathtaking beauty of Zell am See from this stunning viewpoint in Vogelsang, offering panoramic vistas of the lake and Alps.
Waldstück
6.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Waldstück National Forest in Kaprun, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await every visitor.
VERBUND Informationszentrum Kraftwerk Hauptstufe
7.9 km
Discover the wonders of hydroelectric power at the VERBUND Informationszentrum in Kaprun, where technology meets breathtaking alpine scenery.
Sigmund Thun Klamm
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Sigmund Thun Klamm in Kaprun, a stunning gorge filled with waterfalls, cliffs, and natural beauty that enchants every visitor.
Sigmund Thun Klamm Eingang
7.9 km
Discover the power of nature at Sigmund Thun Klamm in Kaprun: Waterfalls, rock formations, and wooden walkways await!
Sigmund Thun Klamm Wasserfall
8.3 km
Explore the stunning Sigmund Thun Gorge in Kaprun: wooden walkways, thundering waterfalls, and unique rock formations await!
Karting Track Saalbach
8.4 km
Experience high-speed thrills at Karting Track Saalbach! Race powerful go-karts on a challenging track amidst stunning Austrian Alps scenery.
Schönleitenbahn Talstation
9.3 km
Your starting point for alpine adventures in Saalbach-Hinterglemm: skiing, hiking, and breathtaking mountain views await!
Imbachhorn
10.4 km
Explore Imbachhorn in Kaprun, Austria – a majestic mountain peak offering breathtaking views, thrilling hikes, and serene nature experiences.
Badesee Niedernsill
11.1 km
Experience the serene charm of Badesee Niedernsill, a perfect lakeside retreat for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking alpine views.
Schattberg X-press Bergstation
11.1 km
Explore the majestic Austrian Alps at Schattberg X-press Bergstation, your gateway to breathtaking views, hiking, and mountain biking adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
VAYA Zell am See
0.1 km
Plateau perch with ski-in/ski-out to Schmittenhöhe, indoor pool recovery, and peak panoramas over Zeller See for seamless Zell am See adventures.
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.
Sporthotel Alpin Zell am See Ski In Ski Out @ Trackman 4 GolfSIM
1.6 km
Direct slope access at Sporthotel Alpin fuses ski-in ski-out thrills, golf simulator precision, and spa recovery against Zell am See's towering peaks and lake horizons.
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.
OUT2 Rafting Zell am See
1.7 km
Erlebe Salzach-Stromschnellen mit staatlich geprüften Guides: 1,5 Stunden White-Water in Alpenkulisse, familientauglich ab 10 Jahren bei OUT2 Zell am See.
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.
ART-LEPA
1.8 km
Elevated contemporary Austrian art by Renate Lepa overlooking Zeller See, where alpine peaks ignite bold abstractions in an intimate Fuchslehen gallery space.
Zell & Roll
1.8 km
Carve Alpine roads on three wheels, where solitude meets scenery around Zeller See's hidden paths.
The House Zell am See
1.8 km
Self-catering Alpine apartments where modern design meets mountain tradition, steps from pristine lakes and year-round adventure.
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.
Glocknerbahn Topstation
1.8 km
Elevate to 1579m via heated 8-seater express chairlift for Schmittenhöhe's prime ski and trail access amid Grossglockner-range panoramas from Zell am See base.
Meet&relaX M.a.X
1.8 km
Zell am See cafe famed for decadent cakes and hot chocolate, offering cozy relaxation amid alpine town buzz for travelers seeking authentic breaks.
Essential places to dine
Berghotel Jaga Alm
0.6 km
Jaga Alm
0.6 km
Authentic game specialties from private hunts meet 1200m panoramas over Lake Zell at this Schmittenhöhe idyll, where farm-fresh Austrian plates fuel hikes and ski days.
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.
Senses Violett Suites
1.5 km
Hillside fine dining at Senses Violett Suites pairs daily three-course alpine menus with Zeller Lake panoramas and violet-accented modern elegance in adults-only Zell am See serenity.
Hotel Berner Zell am See
1.6 km
Alpine cuisine at Hotel Berner fuses Tyrolean recipes with lake views and ski access, serving multi-course meals and buffets from a family kitchen in Zell am See.
Kraftwerk restaurant & winebar
1.6 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Kraftwerk Restaurant & Winebar in Zell am See - where tradition meets fine dining.
Restaurant Kupferkessel - Kreml GmbH
1.8 km
Experience authentic Austrian flavors at Restaurant Kupferkessel in Zell am See - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Castello Restaurant - Pizza, Pasta, Grill und mehr ..
1.8 km
Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and alpine grills fuel Zell am See adventures at Castello on Loferer Bundesstraße.
La Locanda Pizzeria & Restaurant
1.8 km
Wood-fired pizzas and grilled meats fuel Zell am See adventures from Brucker Bundesstraße outpost blending Italian precision with Austrian mountain hospitality.
Hotel Glasererhaus
1.8 km
Zell am See's central restaurant fueling alpine days with robust Austrian buffets, fresh local produce, and ski-lake convenience just 200m from the water's edge.
Asia 2 Go
1.8 km
Quick Asian bites with massive portions fuel Zell am See adventures on Loferer Bundesstraße, blending wok mastery and alpine convenience for hungry explorers.
Hotel Restaurant zum Hirschen
1.9 km
Traditional Austrian dishes crafted with allergy-aware precision in Zell am See's old town, fueling alpine explorers with regional meats, cheeses, and lake-fresh catches amid timbered warmth.
HEITZMANN - Hotel & Rooftop
1.9 km
Rooftop dining with Alpine panoramas where contemporary cuisine meets Zell am See's legendary lakeside setting.
Hotel Steinerwirt
1.9 km
Five centuries of Pinzgau plates in Zell am See's pedestrian core, where vaulted cellars host lake-fresh trout and slope-sourced venison amid alpine energy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Atelier Halili
1.8 km
Explore Atelier Halili in Zell am See for unique artistic handicrafts and heartfelt souvenirs that embody the spirit of your travels.
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
Explore Moreboards Zell am See for the finest selection of snowboards, skateboards, and sportswear, perfect for every outdoor adventure.
Herzschlag Zell am See
2.0 km
Discover unique fashion at Herzschlag Zell am See, where style meets the stunning Austrian Alps in a charming boutique setting.
Charisma on the town square Zell am See
2.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Charisma, the enchanting shop in the heart of Zell am See's town square.
Heimatgold Gift Shop
2.0 km
Discover local flavors and unique gifts at Heimatgold Gift Shop in Zell am See, a perfect stop for tourists seeking authentic Austrian products.
The Little Shop of this and that
2.0 km
Discover unique gifts and children's clothing at The Little Shop of This and That, a charming souvenir haven in the heart of Zell am See, Austria.
SOPURE - Bath & Body Shop
2.0 km
Explore SOPURE, your go-to bath & body shop in Zell am See for unique perfumes, cosmetics, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Swarovski Partner-Store Ensmann
2.1 km
Discover the elegance of Swarovski crystals at the Ensmann Partner-Store in Zell am See, where luxury meets breathtaking Austrian beauty.
LA RESISTANCE
2.1 km
Explore the ultimate snowboard destination in Zell am See, offering top gear and expert advice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lagerage Shop
2.5 km
Explore the flavors of Zell am See at Lagerage Shop, where local produce and artisanal goods come together in a charming grocery experience.
Tauernhanf
2.9 km
Explore the best of cannabis culture at Tauernhanf, Zell am See's top cannabis store offering quality products and expert guidance.
Der Baron Snack Shop
3.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Austria at Der Baron Snack Shop in Zell am See, where local snacks meet a charming grocery experience.
JOP21 - Job Offensive Pinzgau
3.5 km
Explore the vibrant second-hand culture at JOP21 in Zell am See and discover unique treasures that reflect local heritage and sustainability.
Teekorb & Tridor Zell am See speciality coffee regionale Kaffeerösterei Cafe Kaffee tea coffeeshop
3.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of regional coffee at Teekorb & Tridor, a charming café and gift shop in Zell am See that delights every visitor.
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
