Zell am See-Kaprun | 7x cool activities for the summer

Welcome to breathtaking Zell am See-Kaprun, a picturesque gem in Austria that offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. As a world traveler, I have had the privilege of exploring this region and experiencing some activities not to be missed. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or quiet moments in nature, Zell am See-Kaprun is versatile in both summer and winter.

In this blog I share my personal experiences. I'll give you an insight into the top 10 things to do in Zell am See-Kaprun. Let's start with two of my favorites: paragliding and tobogganing.

What to do in Zell am See-Kaprun

Zell am See-Kaprun is mainly known as a ski resort, but did you know that there is also plenty to do in the spring, summer and autumn months? These are 7 great activities you can do, outside of skiing and snowboarding.

1. Paragliding above the Alps

One of the most exciting experiences I've ever had was soaring high above the Alps with a paraglider. Zell am See-Kaprun is known for its paragliding opportunities and it is easy to understand why. The feeling of freedom you experience while floating above the mountain peaks is indescribable. Below is a short video of my experience.

I booked my paragliding adventure VIP Paragliding. The owner (Hajo) and main instructor of the company is Dutch, which I found useful for communication. We (my nephew and I) first had a short training session in which we learned the basics of paragliding. We saw how to fold the glider and received some safety instructions.

In the meantime, a number of people gathered around us who were of course very curious about our departure.

The moment I took to the air, all my nerves suddenly disappeared. You float silently through the air in peace. The vastness of the mountains, the mist and the clouds. It left me speechless. It was as if I had stepped into a postcard. After a thrilling but safe landing, I can say with certainty that paragliding in Zell am See-Kaprun is an experience you will never forget.

2. Tobogganing at Alpine Coaster Kaprun

If you are looking for some fun with a dose of adrenaline, tobogganing in Zell am See-Kaprun is the perfect choice. This activity combines speed, adventure and a little competition to create an unforgettable experience. It resulted in a very blurry photo, but it went really fast! Maybe also because I didn't feel like braking, haha.

Tobogganing at the Alpine Coaster Kaprun costs 14 euros per adult and 6 euros per child in the summer months.

Tip:: Click here for the exact location on Google Maps.

Now that we've satisfied our adventurous side with paragliding and tobogganing, let's look at other things to do in Zell am See-Kaprun.

3. Enjoy the Tauern Spa Hotel & Therme

After all the adventure and excitement it was time to relax and enjoy a well-deserved break. Tauern Spa Hotel & Therme (location here), is the place to do this. You can also spend the night here - check prices and availability here. What makes this spa hotel really special is the view of the surrounding mountains as you relax in the warm water. It is an unforgettable experience that will completely relax you.

Day admission costs 42 euros per person. You can then spend a whole day using a range of wellness facilities, including heated indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and relaxation areas. It's the perfect place to pamper yourself and recover after a day full of activities.

4. Visit Kaprun Castle and step back in time

For a touch of history and culture, a visit to Kaprun Castle is recommended. This medieval castle is well preserved and maintained by volunteers. As you walk through the old corridors and halls, you will feel as if you have gone back in time.

A highlight of the castle visit is the panoramic view from the towers. You have a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque landscape.

5. Visit Top of Salzburg for beautiful views

Zell am See-Kaprun has another beautiful sight: Top of Salzburg. The view seems almost endless from the two viewing platforms at over 3.000 meters above sea level. Austria's highest peaks are within easy reach – all you have to do is buy a ticket for the gondolas that will take you up.

Tickets for these gondolas cost in the summer months 55 euros per person (return). You can choose the boarding location here found on Google Maps. There is enough space to park your car there. From the parking lot it is difficult to estimate how high the mountains are, because you cannot see the peaks. However, it soon becomes clear to you when you are in the gondola, you are going almost straight up!

In no time you suddenly find yourself above the tree line. You have already passed the 2500 meters and the view is truly fantastic. From here you take the last gondola to the Top of Salzburg.

The last gondola ride floats high over the glaciers, which is suddenly a completely different experience. You will have to cover the last part on foot, but don't worry: there is a beautiful platform viewpoint and even a restaurant with panoramic views.

6. Visit the memorial site of the funicular disaster

A tip from Hajo, my Dutch paragliding instructor from Zell am See-Kaprun. What many people do not know (anymore) is that a terrible disaster took place here. The funicular disaster in Kaprun was the result of a violent fire that took place in a tunnel of the steeply inclined Gletscherbahn on November 11, 2000. The disaster claimed the lives of 155 people; only twelve people were able to escape alive.

A monument has been built near the large parking lot of the gondolas, but the strange thing is that from the outside you can't actually see that it is a monument at all. It is as if the region would rather forget this disaster as quickly as possible. It's more or less a big concrete box without any information on it. There is also nothing written on the door.

On the advice of the local, I opened the door and went inside. What I found there is a beautiful, colorful memorial. Each colorful pillar you see on either side represents one victim.

For privacy reasons, I do not post detailed photos of the individual photos, paintings and cards for the victims. Relatives regularly come here and light candles, so someone still comes here with some regularity. This made me quiet for a moment.

7. Walk around Zell am See-Kaprun

A free activity but no less fun. Walk around the picturesque village of Zell am See-Kaprun at your own pace. Here you will find typical Alpine huts and buildings that make Austria so special and unique. It is a beautiful sight with the high mountains in the background.

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In the middle of the village (how could it be otherwise) is a beautiful church that you can see from every angle. You can also go inside to admire it from the inside.

Conclusion

Zell am See-Kaprun is a destination that will steal your heart, whether you are an adventurous traveler, a nature lover, or looking for relaxation. And yes, even when the ski season is long gone.

With activities such as paragliding, tobogganing, hiking, viewpoints and much more, there is always something to do whatever the season. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this enchanting part of Austria, where adventure and beauty come together in perfect harmony. Zell am See-Kaprun awaits you with open arms.