Zell may not have the vast expanse of other Austrian resorts but with 80km of tree-lined slopes and magnificent views over the lake, it still has a lot to offer. The ski pass includes the glacier at Kaprun, giving a total of 130km of pistes and access to higher slopes in the event of snow failure – a serious consideration in Zell due to its relatively low altitude. Access to the glacier is slow though since the closure of the funicular following the tunnel fire a few years ago.
The runs in Zell itself are fairly short but intermediates will enjoy this as an area to hone their technique. Beginners may find that the nursery slopes are less than ideal as they are very low and advanced skiers will have few true challenges. Off-piste is banned in Zell, but boarders are still attracted here by the pipe and Austria’s original boardercross course on the Schmittenhohe.