The lakeside resort of Zell am See is big on outdoor fun
We could feel the carefree spirit in the crisp air the moment we stepped off the train at Zell am See
Pleasure seekers have been coming to this lake and mountain resort in search of clean air
crystal waters and Alpine adventures ever since the railway connected what was then a mere village to Salzburg and beyond in 1875
swim a bit and reward ourselves with Austrian cuisine – at a restorative
View image in fullscreenHigh society: the 3k-Connection cable car
Photograph: Zell am See-Kaprun TourismusWe passed bakeries
hiking shops and the Romanesque church in the old town on the way to our hotel
before joining the 10km tree-lined promenade that rings the lake
the glistening lake… It felt like we had gone back in time
one of a handful of public lidos that pepper the lake
The lido was so perfect, it felt surreal: manicured lawns, teenagers playing frisbee, a café selling apple cake and ice-creams, super-clean changing rooms, a heated, metal-lined swimming pool and steps leading into the cool, clear – and drinkable – lake. The mountains all around us, paddle-boarders ambling past, the MS Schmittenhöhe I Schiffart heading to various drop-off points on the lake
including Thumersbach lido across the water – it’s a dream ticket
The lake’s charms are not lost on tourists from the Gulf States who have been coming to the resort to escape the sun ever since someone from the local tourist board realised that Zell am See’s lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains matched the description of Paradise in the Qur’an – and duly promoted the destination
The inn sits at 1,200m between the Kitzsteinhorn and Schmittenhöhe
a family-friendly hiking trail and eponymous farm which
It took another local bus to the Maiskogel cable car station
to make the ascent to the highest point of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier
the final one being the James Bond style 3k-Connection – so-named because the summit
you can see the peaks of Hohe Tauern National Park – apparently
we had to imagine them: the mist had closed in and we couldn’t see a thing
View image in fullscreenCreature comforts: the Tirolerhof Hotel.Our eyes feasted that evening, though, as we were taken on a regional culinary tour over five courses at Kraftwerk (kraftwerk-restaurant.at)
but were left wanting more – more of this fine restaurant’s mouth-watering dishes
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Here’s how to plan the perfect ski trip to Zell am See
2016—Zell am See in Austria’s Salzburgerland has built a new lift that will allow it to re-open terrain not used for more than three decades
the first stage in a two-year plan to (re)connect Zell am See to the Saalbach- Hinterglemm-Fieberbrunn
will make Zell am See part of one of Austria’s largest ski areas
links Glemmtal in the Saalbach Hinterglemm area with Zell’s Schmittenhohe area
The new lift runs to the top station of the Salersbachköpfl at 1,920m (6,300 feet)
reopening access to once popular downhill runs to the Glemm Valley that resort managers say were used for 50 years between 1930 and 1980
More upgrades are planned in the area for the 2018-19 season as part of the €25m (about $28 million) project to expand terrain and add an additional cable car connection from and into Glemmtal
the linked area will have nearly 350km (217 miles) of runs
Over at Zell am See’s other neighbor and main ski resort partner
the new Schmiedingerbahn lift will replace the Schmiedinger glacier lifts on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier
becoming Salzburgerland's highest situated chairlift
Operating between 2,530m and 2,775m (8,300 and 9,104 feet)
the modern eight-passenger bubble lift will include heated seats
This report is courtesy of Snow24 World Snow Resort News
Ski Area Management - SAM | P.O. Box 644 Woodbury, CT 06798 | Tel. (203) 263-0888 | Fax (203) 266-0452 | Email news@saminfo.com
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The last Pro Series race before the women’s and men’s IRONMAN World Championships took place this morning in Austria
with an 11:00am local start time for 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun
Temperatures hovered in the mid-seventies Fahrenheit
The two race winners put together master class performances
Caroline Pohle dominated a Pro Series races for the second straight weekend
After dismantling the field at the European Championships in Tallinn
Pohle lined up for a second consecutive weekend
She had company on the swim today but was able to build a cushion on the bike
Nobody would be able to catch her on the run
I am super proud of myself because it was my first back to back racing so we have no experience about how my body reacted but I fared very
Germany’s Mika Noodt won the men’s race by more than four minutes
A large group came out of the water and got onto the bike together
Noodt used the first big climb on the bike to drop everyone except for Belgium’s Jelle Geens
Noodt built out an insurmountable lead from there that nobody could chip away at on the run
“I actually wasn’t thinking about it but yeah I just kept my own rhythm to the finish line and yeah that’s it super happy.” On his overall race
“Yeah the swim started okay-ish so I had a medium start but then we had a nice long way to the first buoy…out on the bike the first few k’s were a bit messy with all the guys…I relaxed for a bit and then I went towards the front and at the bottom of the climb I set my own rhythm…With 2ks to go (on the run) I was quite sure that I’m going to make it and could enjoy this finish line.” Noodt said that this might be the best bike course he has ever ridden
and liked the rolling nature of the course
He is from Germany but said Austria feels like a second home
Noodt’s post-race interview was one of the better ones from this entire season
He gave thoughtful answers about his race performance and was very complimentary of all of the volunteers
IRONMAN describes this swim course as “One of the most spectacular in all of European IRONMAN 70.3 racing
Swim to the backdrop of the glacier-covered Alps in a drinking water quality lake.” Austria’s Martin Demuth led out the swim in 24:07 on home soil
Demuth has made 117 short course starts (3 podiums) and is new to IRONMAN racing
Another 19 athletes swam between 24:40 and 24:59
Arnaud Guilloux and Robert Kallin were a little further back
The long run into T1 allowed the group to come back together but put a lot of riders in close proximity to each other in the early stages on the bike on tight roads
This led to a few penalties being handed out
We have covered this issue at different times throughout the season
It is good to hand out the penalties but the reality is that more should have been handed out so a handful of athletes had their days ended
I would still like to see more frequent penalties handed out with shorter durations
was more fair within the current construct of the rules
Fifteen men were within one minute of the lead at 15k
Eleven of those fifteen were German athletes
Noodt had gapped everyone except for Geens
Nobody else could match his power on the climb
Noodt dropped Geens on the descent and used a 2:02:11 bike split to take a massive 4:45 lead into T2
Noodt was able to maintain strong form on the run and coast to victory in 3:46:04
Caroline Pohle had company on the swim today
Ellie Salthouse swam in the chase pack a minute behind the leaders
Daniela Bleymehl was well back on the swim and later had to drop out due to cramping
Pohle had company from Meibner early in the bike but that did not last long as she was soon dropped
and it would stay that way until the end of the bike
Pohle split 2:21:47 to lead by 1:54 over Madsen
Thek ran herself into 2nd place by the finish
She just ran out of room to catch Pohle who had done enough to win comfortably by 1:34
Quick Take #1: Pohle made winning two Pro Series races in back to back weekends look relatively easy
She swam at the front of both races and then built comfortable leads on the bike
she has not been caught in two consecutive races
Pohle is not giving the uber bikers a chance to get on her wheel
It will be interesting to see what races she lines up for in the back half of the season and if she can replicate these performances
Quick Take #2: Mika Noodt is quietly putting together an excellent eason
Noodt finished 6th and 5th at T100 Singapore and T100 San Francisco
He did not get a wild card for T100 London and had not raced again until today
He said he took a season break even though he felt like he was in great shape and that nothing was bothering him
Noodt is focused on the remaining T100 races and the 70.3 World Championships
He was very good today against a strong field
It will be interesting to see if his less aggressive racing strategy pays off as we get closer to championship season
Quick Take #3: We have now completed 16 out of the 20 Pro Series races
We are down to the three championship races plus 70.3 Western Australia
The Nice World Championships are just three weeks away!
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Winter came early to the Austrian Alps this year
when a surprise snowstorm blanketed the region’s Alpine villages with three feet of white powder in mid-September
prompting the residents to dust off their ski gear
a director at Berghotel located on the top of Schmittenhoehe mountain in Zell am See Kaprun
“It’s called ‘schutzengel schnee,’ which means ‘guardian angel snow,’” Weiss said
It ends the summer heat and starts our autumn season.”
French Courchevel and Swiss St Moritz may be among the most famous of the European ski resorts
uncrowded slopes and boundless trails that start or end at your hotel — and sometimes even at your room
Here are three alternative skiing destinations in the heart of the Austrian Alps
With more than 350 kilometers of slopes, 250 towering mountain peaks and two glaciers, Otztal remains an under-the-radar local gem
Clients can get on the mountain here as early as October for downhill skiing
Travelers might also choose from 15 scenic toboggan runs
which will get riders of all ages buzzing down the mountain on a wooden sleigh
Otztal is also a spa destination, thanks to its thermal baths, of which some are nude (no clothes allowed). In 2015, the Otztal Valley became the movie set for the classic James Bond film “Spectre.” The Ice Q restaurant in the neighboring town of Solden (and at the top of the Gaislachkogl Peak) was turned into the Hoffler Klinik where James Bond meets Madeleine Swann
an interactive exhibit next to the restaurant lets visitors experience some of the film’s dramatic scores and action sequences
Sports, storytelling and history collide in Innsbruck, where majestic slopes are barely half an hour away from the resplendent Innsbruck Hofburg Palace, which is more than 500 years old
Travelers can have the best of both worlds here
alternating between thrilling skiing and diving into Austria's glamorous past
The destination is a truly unique Alpine-urban kaleidoscope
Hugged by the mountains that border Germany to the north and Italy to the south
Innsbruck has about 20 ski areas with 300 miles of slopes
as well as serene night skiing under the glow of floodlights
museums and historical landmarks offer a “time travel” through the Hapsburg empire
then hop on to the cable car right in the city center and be up the mountain in less than 30 minutes,” said Stephanie Schennach
Clients will be the first adventurers on the slopes of Schmittenhohe mountain if they stay at the Berghotel, which is set at the peak’s summit and offers breathtaking views of the Alps from every room
Berghotel guests don’t need to take a gondola to get to the mountain top — they simply walk out of their room
Nestled in the valley at the foot of the mountain
the village of Zell Am See Kaprun boasts souvenir shops
clothing boutiques and artisanal restaurants
Villagers still farm here in the summer months
berries and preserves makes for a thriving culinary scene
If dining in the village, be sure to send clients to Flo, where culinary artist Florian Zillner offers a modern twist on classic Austrian dishes (think venison Bolognese and braised kohlrabi with mustard sauce); much of the produce is sourced from the restaurant’s vegetable garden
apple strudel and other Austrian classics with a 360-panoramic of snow-capped peaks
Relaxing in the hotel’s full-service spa afterwards is a must
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gently wooded slopes and super-friendly bar men and maids armed with endless bottles of schnapps
It’s where beginners can learn with an arm round the shoulder rather than a shove down the slope
intermediates can ski all day on pistes wider than a motorway
and experts can enjoy some of Europe's most epic off-piste itineraries
It's is also (despite the French name) the spiritual home of après ski. There are world-famous venues like the Mooservirt in St. Anton
but it's the sheer ubiquity of banging slopeside bars that really makes Austria special
and you're all-but-guaranteed to come across some old local
dancing on the tables to the sounds of schlage—aka "oompah trance": you know
that genre of music that's found exclusively in Austrian ski resorts
where the accordion is always accompanied by a thumping club beat
Best of all, Austria is also relatively cheap for a world-class skiing destination. Its resorts are as big, as snow sure, and as well groomed as any ski resorts in France or Switzerland
but almost everything - from accommodation
Austria has resorts with short transfer times, resorts that are ideal for family ski holidays, and some of the best beginner-friendly resorts in Europe
It's also home to many of the continent's best snow parks
we've focussed on resorts that tick a number of the above boxes—a lot of which are the bigger
But we've also found space to list one or two of our favourite secret spots: smaller resorts that serve up something special
Whichever one of these excellent Austrian ski resorts you head to
you're guaranteed to have a fantastic time—and who knows
you might even end up dancing on a table or two
Damüls is something of an anomaly. The village sits at just 1,400m above sea-level. The top lifts barely reach above 2,000m. And yet somehow, this is one of the snowiest places in the Alps. According to the tourist board, the resort gets an average of 9.39m of snow each winter—an incredible stat given that high altitude resorts like Val Thorens in France
the evidence on the ground seemed to back this up
and yet we found almost British Columbian conditions
How to explain this strange meteorological phenomenon
with just 80km of piste served by 21 lifts
including excellent beginner areas and some seriously epic descents that are easily accessible from the lifts
Austrian and charming in a way that's hard to find in bigger
Of course despite there's no guarantee of snowfall anywhere
But if you want the real Austrian experience
It might seem strange to include the city that most people fly into to reach the Austrian Alps among the ski resorts on this list. But in recent years Innsbruck has emerged as a skiing destination in its own right
both boast some seriously challenging terrain
and there are more excellent off-piste opportunities in Axamer Lizum
there's snow sure skiing on the Stübai glacier
and the varying aspects of the different resorts means that the snow quality is second to none
there's something for every type of skier around Innsbruck
the modern lift system which serves Innsbruck's various resorts is supplemented by the busses
and bus travel is also included on your lift pass
beautiful architecture and the kind of cultural life that most ski resorts can only dream of
then Innsbruck itself can't cater (although you could stay in one of the resorts and still makes use of the Ski Plus City Pass)
But there's more to this town than Innsbruck airport (convenient as it undoubtedly is)
If your ski holidays have become a bit samey
and you fancy combining your next one with the best bits of a city break
Read our full Innsbruck ski resort review here
Love a soothing spa after a day on the slopes? You’re in the right place – Ischgl has some of the best ski resort spas
a mecca for alpine-themed wellness which opened in late 2022
has one of the liveliest après ski scenes in Europe
an excellent lift system make Ischgl a great choice for a full-on ski holiday
The lift-linked Silvretta Arena ski area here is large
but you can also access three neighbouring resorts Galtür
Yet for all that the skiing here is excellent Ischgl probably prides itself more on its parties than its pistes
with its booming oompah trance and scantily-clad dancing girls sums the resort up
Neither fourth-wave feminism nor the #MeToo movement seem to have had much impact on Ischgl yet
and while that's probably not to everyone's tastes
if the old-school Austrian après ski experience is what you've come for
Check out our full resort review of Ischgl to find out where to go - and where to avoid - in eastern Austria's après ski capital
This Tyrolean resort is best-known for its historic Hahnenkamm downhill skiing race
Famously the gnarliest course on the World Cup calendar
the terrain here is actually pretty varied
and it's an excellent resort for intermediates
although a low base altitude means snow reliability can be an issue
When it comes to the vibe in the village, however, Kitzbühel is in a class of its own
it offers the perfect a mix of high-end hotel restaurants
rambunctious piste-side après ski spots and late night
The charming medieval quarter is filled with swanky boutiques
all of them know how to cut loose once the lifts are closed
Check out our Kitzbühel ski resort review for the full lowdown
For a long time, Lech was something of a secret—tucked away in Austria's Arlberg region, it was overshadowed, in the British imagination at least, by the massive resort of St. Anton nearby
That allowed it to cater for a more discerning (and higher paying) clientele
With the opening of the Flexbahn Gondola in the 2016-17 season
Lech found itself connected to the vast Ski Arlberg area (of which St Anton is a part)
While it still maintains its smaller village charm
it now has offers access to a vast network of pistes that rivals anything in Austrian skiing
With 88 lifts and cable cars and 300km of pistes Ski Arlberg is now one of the largest ski areas in the world
The sheer number of groomed pistes mean that there's plenty for intermediate skiers here
In fact the local ski area around Lech could have been designed for them
with plentiful red and blue runs to choose from
But there's also a ton of options for advanced skiers and snowboarders around the Ski Arlberg region
While the off-piste terrain throughout the ski area is impressive
the ski areas of Lech and Zurs (see below) are where the best stuff is found
making this a great place for more experienced skiers to base themselves
Read our full-length ski resort review of Lech here
this picture-postcard resort is perfect for confident skiers
and boasts one of the Alps' great snowboarding scenes
The legendary Aësthetiker crew call the surrounding Zillertal valley their home
with lines for every level of rider or skier
linked by the Penkenbahn cable car to the main resort
looks as you’d expect an Austrian resort in the heart of the Tyrol to look -chocolate box cute
with a few new additions bringing things into the 21st Century
this place comes alive in the afternoons and evenings - especially when the Altitude Comedy Festival
and longest-running winter music festival—rolls into town
Check out our Mayrhofen ski resort review for the full lowdown
Stretched out along one side of the upper Ötztal valley, Obergurgl
combine to form one of Austria's most snow sure resorts
The main reason for this is the high altitude - Obergurgl village sits at 1,930 metres
But there's also an impressively high-tech snow generation system to fill in the gaps where needed
snow coverage is pretty much guaranteed all the way into May
where the two chairlifts (accessible on the Ötztal lift pass) offer access to an enormous high altitude areas
dotted with mountain huts where ski tourers can stay overnight
The village itself has all the usual après attractions
but still somehow seems quiet compared to its noisy neighbour
head down there for the day and simply catch the bus back up the valley at whatever time you finish
For the full lowdown on what makes this area not just one of the best ski resorts in Austria, but one of the best ski resorts in the world, check out our Obergurgl ski resort review
One of Austria’s most rocking resorts, Saalbach is centred on an attractive old Tyrolean village and renowned for its full-on après ski
and access to one of Austria’s largest lift-linked ski areas
The Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang Skicircus area
was recently expanded further with a gondola link to Fieberbrunn—giving it the tongue-twistingly long moniker of Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn
to the cruisey blues surrounding Saalbach village
these slopes cater for every kind of ski holiday
the much-loved Limberg four-seater chair was be replaced by a brand new high-speed 8-seater chair—during its 29 years of service
the old lift carried no fewer than 29 million skiers skywards
To get the full lowdown, read our Saalbach ski resort review
St. Anton in the Arlberg region is one of the world’s great ski resorts
Home to some of the most challenging slopes in the Alps
it has hosted numerous skiing competitions
including various World Alpine Ski Championships and Ski World Cups
Anton village has a car-free centre and bustles with activity throughout the day and late into the night
The surrounding slopes offer an incredible amount of diversity
from the steeps of the Valluga to the gentle village slopes around Nasserein
An extensive artificial snow-blower system ensures that the ski area is always snow sure
As well as being one of the best ski resorts in Austria
Anton is steeped in history - one of the very first cable cars in the Alps was installed here
that the concept of group ski lessons was first tried
Regarded as one of the cradles of the modern Alpine skiing tradition
this resort deserves every bit of its reputation as one of the best resorts
For more information, read our St. Anton ski resort review
from ice skating to making a splash at the aqua-leisure centre
Check out our Söll ski resort review for the full lowdown
Stubai Gletscher is a high altitude resort offering skiing from October all the way through til May
With top lifts that reach well above 3,000m
it's about as snow sure as you can get in the era of global heating
The ski area is not enormous—68km of pistes served by 26 lifts—but there's more than enough variety to keep you occupied for a week
Stubai also boasts one of the longest pisted ski runs in Europe
with a 10km epic which runs from the Wildspitz mountain station at 3,210m to the valley floor at 1,695m
giving you a vertical drop of more than 1,500m
As with any resort where the bulk of the terrain sits above the treeline (which is 1,800 - 2,000m in the Alps) visibility can be an issue on snowy days
Stubai has teamed up with the other resorts of the Stubai Valley—Serles
Elfer and Schlick 2000—to offer a joint lift-ticket for anyone who books four days or more
Schlick in particular has tree runs galore
Like many Austrian glacier resorts (Hintertux and Kaunertal
for example) the accommodation is scattered down the valley
rather than arranged around the lifts themselves
to ferry you up and down but you may also want to consider renting a car—Stubai's lifts are less than an hour from Innsbruck airport
Set on the shores of a large freshwater lake, Zell am See must be a contender for the most beautiful resort in Austria
and in the winter the glacial peak of the Kitzsteinhorn and the surrounding Hohe Tauern range creates an incredible
with an attractive and atmospheric old town centred around a Gothic church
restaurants serving traditional Austrian fare and
The lift pass for Zell am See offers access to Kaprun
creating one of the largest ski areas anywhere in the country
with an incredible 400 km of pistes accessible
Our full Zell am See ski resort review tells you where to start in this huge area.
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For our 38th annual Readers’ Choice Awards
survey voters weighed in on their favorite ski resorts in Europe
while Levi in Finland broke into the top 15 for the first time
Italy’s resorts have been gearing up for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games with new enhancements
voting four Italian ski areas into the ranking this year
Here are the ski resorts that you loved most this year
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date
Bormio ski area lays claim to the greatest skiable vertical drop in Italy
with lifts that whisk skiers up 5,905 feet
Most of the mountain’s runs are geared toward beginner or intermediate skiers
which means you’re guaranteed stellar alpine views
which will be the official venue of the Winter Olympics in 2026
Freestyle fans should check out the new Jungle Snowpark
head to Bormio’s historic thermal baths for a soak
Where to stay: Hotel La Genzianella is a five-minute walk from the resort and features pinewood suites and chalets
Stats: 14 lifts for 17 runs covering 31 miles
The Bormio Skipass starts at $65 and allows you to ski three areas
including Santa Caterina and Cima Piazzi-San Colombano
free-riding playground while neighboring Nätschen is laced with cruise-y runs
you can easily link to the family-friendly slopes of Sedrun
When you legs get tired from all the skiing
the Matterhorn Gotthard railway (also included in the ticket) will take you back to Andermatt
Stats: Average price for a one-day lift ticket is $82; the Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis ski region comprises 33 lifts for 85 marked pistes; on the Epic Pass
Stats: There are 79 lifts for nearly 110 miles of slopes
One-day lift ticket from $87; on the Ikon Pass
with terraces so you can work on your tan and take in the dazzling alpine views
Freestyle fans will find one of the best snowparks in Switzerland
One-day lift ticket from $82 on the Epic Pass
Where to stay: Levi Spirit Luxury Villas & Resort is less than one mile from the nearest ski slope and provides unique experiences ranging from reindeer sledding and husk safaris
as well as exceptional slopes that connect to the massive Dolomiti Superski area
including the Gran Risa slopes where Ski World Cup races are held each year
This season the new Braia Fraida lift will connect Corvara to San Cassiano
The cuisine is just as appealing as the skiing
with everything from Michelin-star gastronomic temples to humble
family-run mountain huts set at 6,500 feet
Outfitter Dolomite Mountains can curate culinary ski safari that showcase the best slopes and chefs
A new sommelier on the slopes program pairs skiers with an instructor and wine expert and tastings are hosted at mountain huts including Ütia Bioch and Club Moritzino
Where to stay: The 20-room boutique Hotel Recort opens this December
experienced skiers can hire a guide (Chamonix has the world’s oldest and largest guiding organization) and schuss down the legendary Vallée Blanche
12.4-mile glacier descent in the heart of Mont-Blanc Massif
two suites and two stand-alone chalets and a Michelin-star restaurant
One-day lift ticket from $72; on the Ikon Pass
The latter is a destination for freeriders and ski tour enthusiasts
Stats: 51 lifts for more than 250 miles of slopes
car-free city center featuring an open-air ice rink
as well as a number of smart boutiques makes Megève a family favorite
Stats: One-day lift tickets from $60; there are 112 lifts for 231 runs for the Evasion-Mont Blanc ski area
newly designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta
has the best terrace on the slopes with panoramic views of the Matterhorn
Stats: One-day lift tickets between $53 and $84; there are 41 lifts for nearly 125 miles of runs
you won’t want to miss exploring the charming holiday markets in the surrounding villages
Stats: 111 lifts and cable cars and with just over 190 miles of runs
AustriaLech Zürs may lack the bling of areas like St
Behind traditional farmhouse facades you’ll find chic boutiques
but it boasts the highest density of award-winning restaurants in the world (Rote Wand Chef’s Table at Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel is a must)
And of course there’s the draw of its excellent snowfall and the famed White Ring
a circuit of nearly 14 miles that links Lech
Two modern new cable cars make the slopes even more accessible this season
and his family continues the hotel’s legacy of hospitality
85 lifts and cable cars can access more than 180 miles of marked slopes and 120-plus miles of backcountry runs
One-day lift ticket from $80; on the Epic Pass
AustriaOne of four resorts that make up the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
among the most expansive lift-linked ski areas in the world
Saalbach is known for its old-world Tyrolean village and lively après scene
The combined super resort offers something for everyone
from challenging terrain that has hosted the Freeride World Tour to family-friendly groomers
Ambitious skiers can attempt “the Challenge,” a 40-mile circuit of downhill runs connected by 32 lifts
it takes around seven hours without a lunch break
a luxe all-inclusive right near the resort center and Schattberg X-press lift
has been rebranded as ValSaa Alpine Resort and had a new restaurant and ski lockers
The interconnected resorts feature nearly 170 miles of slopes
linked by 70 lifts and dotted with 60 ski huts and a freestyle terrain park
an intimate 55-seat dining room specializing in traditional fare
Airelles Val d’Isère is the hot spot for après ski with its expansive terrace featuring DJ sets
Stats: One-day lift tickets are $70 for Tignes and Val d’ Isère
The linked Tignes–Val d’ Isère ski area has 163 runs connected by 75 lifts
plus two skiable glaciers and two snow parks
Ski passes are free for children under age 8
Where to stay: There are the luxe chalets mentioned above, but the W Verbier has the best location in town
close to ski school meeting spots and opposite the Médran gondola
Hotel Cordée des Alpes is another great boutique option with an award-winning restaurant
Stats: One-day lift ticket from $82 on the Epic Pass
There are 80 lifts for more than 250 miles of runs across the 4 Vallées ski area
the town isn't too remote—though the towering ring of surrounding Dolomites might make it feel otherwise—and its low-key vibe (a far remove from the flashy
see-and-be-seen culture of other comparable ski towns) continues to attract the likes of George Clooney
Cortina connects skiers and riders to nearly 750 miles of slopes
And Nordic fans can access Europe’s biggest network of cross-country trails
Where to stay: The intimate Hotel de Len has just 23 rooms and a fabulous rooftop spa that overlooks the valley
a lavish Belle Époque hotel about a mile from the gondola
is closed for a refurbishment and will reopen under the Mandarin Oriental flag in 2025
Stats: One-day Dolomiti Superski pass from $78; on the Ikon Pass
Austria’s most popular holiday resort has it all: posh hotels; a picturesque 750-year-old city center; a lively après-ski scene along quaint
cobblestone streets; and unsurpassed skiing that includes 11 renowned ski schools and the most demanding course on the World Cup circuit
With more than 60 mountain huts and restaurants
there are plenty of delicious options to refuel
or lounge leisurely over lunch on the slopes
Where to stay: Hotel Schloss Lebenberg
a medieval hillside castle overlooking the village that earns high marks for its stellar service
Stats: 58 lifts for 96 runs covering 145 miles
One-day lift tickets from $59; on the Ikon Pass
Moritz finally offers a five star hotel 365 days a year
Stats: One-day lift tickets range from $45 to $100; there are 58 lifts for 88 runs
it’s hard to go elsewhere once you’ve gotten a taste for Courchevel’s heated pavements and impressive
boasting a slope-side terrace featuring a menu by Michelin-decorated chef Yannik Alléno
Stats: One-day lift ticket for the 372-plus miles of pistes in the Three Valleys $63
like its state-of-the-art lift system and swanky après-ski diversions
Horse-drawn sleighs are the preferred choice of transportation in the car-free village
be sure to stop for the burger at Chez Vrony (reservations a must) and a glass of bubbles at the tiny Champagne bar at the end of the Sunnega run
The new Matterhorn Glacier Ride II now links the entire stretch between Zermatt and Cervinia by cable car
connecting the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise mountain station with the Testa Grigia valley station
Stats: One-day lift ticket from $87; on the Ikon Pass. There are 55 lifts for 147 runs.
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– Pohle and Noodt both take home 2,500 points in last IRONMAN Pro Series Race before the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship races begin
– Jelle Geens (BEL) and Gregor Payet (LUX) complete the men’s professional podium
while Grace Thek (AUS) and Laura Masden (DEN) complete the women’s professional podium
Fla./ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The IRONMAN® 70.3® Zell am See-Kaprun triathlon took place today against a stunning backdrop of the Kitzbühel Alps
Caroline Pohle (DEU) stormed to a victory marking back-to-back wins
just a week after becoming IRONMAN 70.3 European Champion in Tallinn
fellow German Mika Noodt took the course best time by two seconds on his IRONMAN Pro Series™ debut
but managed to overtake the American in T1
meaning she was first on the bike and maintained her lead right up until the end
a chase pack formed on the bike made up of the likes of Lena Meißner
As Pohle increased her lead on the run becoming more and more untouchable
a battle unfolded for the final podium places between Laura Madsen
Madsen started to fade as Thek picked up the place
running herself down the red carpet in second
Thek and Madsen finished within two minutes of Pohle
meaning the all-important IRONMAN Pro Series points remained tight
Pohle commented: “It was my first back-to-back racing
so we had no experience about how my body reacted (sic)
a similar dynamic unfolded with Mika Noodt taking the lead early on the bike
resulting in him having the fastest bike split of the day and securing a course best in the process (2:02:11)
Noodt started the run with a 04:47 minute lead over Jelle Geens
which he managed to maintain throughout the course
finishing just over 5 minutes ahead of Geens
Jan Stratmann (DEU) was third off the bike
but slowed slightly on run with Gregor Payet (LUX) and Tom Hug (DEU) overtaking him to take third and fourth place respectively
this marked his first ever IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon
Noodt commented: “I didn’t have any numbers
I think it’s the best bike course – some small rolls
Noodt added: “I was a little worried about the last 5km as that was my longest run since last October when I had to crawl the last few meters
I kept it quite conservative but I heard that Jelle didn’t come in close…With 2km to go I was quite sure I was going to make it
I’m from Germany so it’s sort of like home to me.”
At IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun athletes were competing for a maximum of 2,500 IRONMAN Pro Series points
and three qualifying slots per gender to the 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship triathlon in Marbella
Full results for the IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun triathlon can be found at ironman.com/im703-zell-am-see-results. For additional event information, please visit https://www.ironman.com/im703-zell-am-see
Overall IRONMAN Pro Series Standings – Top Five Male (After 15 Events)
Overall IRONMAN Pro Series Standings – Top Five Female (After 14 Events)
Full IRONMAN Pro Series standings can be found at proseries.ironman.com
Overall IRONMAN Pro Series Event Prize Money
In addition to the IRONMAN Pro Series’ $1.7M year-end bonus prize pool
there is an event pro prize purse payout of $2,575,000
distributed across IRONMAN Pro Series events
To date the IRONMAN Pro Series has paid out a total of $1.25M
Over $1.3M remains to be claimed at the remaining events
Top Five Male Prize Money Earned (After 15 events)
Top Five Female Prize Money Earned (After 15 events)
In just three weeks today the professional women will toe the line at the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship in Nice
The men will then race a month late on October 26 in Kailua-Kona
As well as the ultimate title of IRONMAN World Champion
there will also be 6,000 IRONMAN Pro Series points on offer (1,000 points more than the other IRONMAN triathlons in the Series)
For more information on the IRONMAN Pro Series, visit proseries.ironman.com. Media inquiries may be directed to press@ironman.com.
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historic sights and late-season ski slopes are in their prime
With its dress-circle views of the Hohe Tauern mountains — including Austria’s highest peak
the 12,460ft Grossglockner — the twinned resort of Zell am See-Kaprun is one that attracts skiers and snowboarders from far and wide
it’s not just winter travellers that should put this high-altitude resort atop their travel list
the region unfolds in a beautiful tapestry of flora and fauna
Relax on sunny terraces serving up authentic
before sampling the region's plentiful hiking and biking trails
And don't ditch the skis just yet — the area offers winter sports lovers the chance to enjoy longer
warmer days on the slopes until the end of May on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier
With 254 miles of perfectly groomed pistes varying from high-altitude glacier slopes to family friendly downhill runs
the Austrian region of Zell am See-Kaprun delivers diverse skiing terrain throughout the winter and well into the spring months
much of the action takes place above 6,562ft
making for reliable late-season slope time
The 6,447ft Schmittenhöhe is a family favourite
with knockout views of the surrounding mountains — including more than 30 peaks over 9,800ft — and a varied mix of blue
it's the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier that's the region's crowning glory in springtime
you'll find 37 miles of slopes sat at 10,509 ft above sea level
Thanks to its high altitude position and reliable snow conditions
This means you can enjoy all the benefits of spring skiing to the maximum — from longer days
Visitors to Zell am See-Kaprun can enjoy spring skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier until the end of May.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus2
Experience exhilarating alpine activitiesWith the rugged rock faces of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier on one side and the Pinzgau grass mountains around the Schmittenhöhe on the other
Zell am See-Kaprun is made for exhilarating alpine activities
from incredibly varied hiking routes to beginner-friendly mountaineering opportunities
The area also houses some of the most diverse
technically challenging biking trails in Europe
catering to everyone from avid mountain bikers to families and beginners
Road cyclists can enjoy gentle routes around Lake Zell or Alpine tours into the valley
while those seeking more high-adrenaline adventures can hit a number of freeride trails
For an experience that allows the best of both
gravel bikes are versatile options that allow you to tackle a wider range of terrain
one of the most rewarding experiences to enjoy in the area is the world-renowned Grossglockner High Alpine Road — a 30-mile-long route consisting of 36 hairpin bends and idyllic views of the mighty Grossglockner and Austria's largest glacier
Cycling or e-biking in the mountains is the perfect way to soak up the natural beauty of the area.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus3
Take to the water on Lake ZellLocated right on the lakeshore
Zell Am See-Kaprun is well placed for a variety of aquatic activities
There are also several lidos dotted around the shores
mini golf and manmade beaches for use on warmer days
A flotilla of four boats run panoramic cruises across Lake Zell during the spring
Bag a spot on the open-top deck of the MS Schmittenhöhe
the MS Grossglockner or the Kaiserin Elisabeth for 360-degree views of alpine meadows and rugged peaks reflected in the cobalt waters
set sail on the Libelle — a wooden motor built in 1947
The glittering waters of Lake Zell provide ample opportunity for water-based activities.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus4
Visit a natural wonderSpring also provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of SalzburgerLand's more interesting sights
from the 12th Century fortress of Kaprun castle to the Maisi Flitzer mountain coaster
it's the Sigmund-Thun Gorge that's perhaps the most impressive
Just a 15-minute drive from the heart of Zell am See-Kaprun
this 320m long waterway sees the Kapruner Ache river carve its way through stone and rock in dramatic fashion
family-friendly trail allows you to marvel at the force of the water as you journey across a series of sturdy wooden boardwalks and bridges
on a route that takes around 30 minutes to complete
where you can learn more about the area's geography and geology on a natural history walk
Or for a deeper dive into the region's history
set in a perfectly-preserved 400-year-old farmhouse
The lakeside city of Zell am See-Kaprun is at its beautiful best in spring
with plenty of historic sights to explore and restaurants serving up fresh local delicacies.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus5
See city sights Originally a small market village sat prettily on the shore of Lake Zell
Zell am See-Kaprun has become a thriving alpine city
with bustling local markets and boutiques drawing in shoppers and bars and restaurants serving up seasonal Austrian specialties
During a stroll through the historic old town
visitors can discover the 1,000-year-old Vogtturm
Zell am See-Kaprun lies southwest of Salzburg
Many airlines fly direct from the UK to Salzburg
or travelling between the two by rail can take as little as 11.5 hours
make use of the Pinzgau Mobility Card to explore the local area and the SKI Alpin card to gain access to the ski areas in the region
Travel in Easter to take advantage of the Easter Bonus
which allows all junior skiers born from 2007 to ski for free when accompanied by an adult
For more information and to book your trip visit zellamsee-kaprun.com
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Latvia's six-mile Three Castle Route leads hikers through the depths of Gauja National Park
where woodland paths boast an enchanting display of golden leaves
Zell am See is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty
Zell am See attracts visitors from around the world
If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting destination
here are 10 things to do in Zell am See that you simply can’t miss
Start your Zell am See adventure by strolling through the charming streets of the historic old town
Vogtturm: This 11th-century tower now houses a local museum showcasing the town’s history
Hippolyte: Known for its beautiful frescoes
keep an eye out for the town’s many traditional shops selling local specialties like handmade chocolates
with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop
One of the best ways to experience its beauty is by taking a leisurely boat trip
Panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains
Flexibility to explore various lakeside spots at your own pace
soak in the breathtaking views of the Alps reflecting on the lake’s surface
Keep your camera ready to capture these picture-perfect moments
offers a paradise for hikers and nature lovers
Take the Schmittenhöhe cable car to nearly 2,000 meters above sea level
where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of Lake Zell and the surrounding peaks
explore the well-marked hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels
try paragliding from the mountain top for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape
Schmittenhöhe transforms into a ski resort
a trip to Schmittenhöhe is one of the top zell am see attractions
the Sigmund Thun Gorge offers a wonderful nature experience
Follow the wooden walkways through the gorge
admiring the turquoise waters of the Kapruner Ache river as it rushes past towering rock formations
perfect for a picnic or a moment of tranquility
Add the Sigmund Thun Gorge to your list of things to do zell am see
and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature
If you’re looking for a day of relaxation and fun
head to the Zell am See Leisure Center (Freizeitzentrum)
This family-friendly complex offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities:
the leisure center has something for everyone
It’s a perfect option for rainy days or when you need a break from outdoor adventures
the Krimml Waterfalls are a natural wonder worth the 1.5-hour drive
Follow the well-maintained trails to various viewpoints
each offering a different perspective of the cascading waters
The hike to the top of the falls takes about 1.5 hours
but you can also enjoy the lower sections if you prefer a shorter walk
The waterfalls are most impressive in late spring and early summer when the snow melts
By car: Drive up the Mitterberg road and park near the Mitterbergalm
a traditional mountain hut with a viewing terrace
On foot: Follow the hiking trail from the town center
which takes about 1.5 hours to reach the top
is one of Zell am See’s most iconic landmarks
While staying at this historic hotel is a luxury experience
you can still enjoy its charm by visiting the lake-view terrace for coffee and cake
The terrace offers a prime spot to admire Lake Zell and the mountains while indulging in delicious Austrian pastries
with its grand staircase and crystal chandeliers
If you’re in Zell am See on a Friday
don’t miss the weekly market held in the town center
This colorful market showcases the best of local produce
Sample traditional Austrian snacks like pretzels
As you explore zell am see attractions, staying connected is key to making the most of your trip. With Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming
you can enjoy seamless connectivity in Austria
Choose from a range of affordable plans that offer generous data allowances and validity options
Enjoy high-speed internet access to share your Zell am See adventures on social media
and stay in touch with loved ones back home
you can travel with peace of mind knowing that Airtel has you covered
From the sparkling waters of Lake Zell to the majestic peaks of the Austrian Alps
Zell am See offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler
As you plan your things to do in Zell am See
remember to pack your sense of adventure and your camera to capture the stunning beauty of this Alpine gem
And with Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming
you can stay connected and share your unforgettable moments with the world
The IRONMAN Pro Series continues this weekend in the Austrian lake town of Zell am See near Salzburg
The 15th event in the Pro Series offers a maximum of 2,500 points towards the standings and a total pro prize purse of $50,000
The swim is one of most spectacular in European triathlon
with a backdrop of the glacier-covered Austrian Alps in a drinking water quality lake
It’s a one-loop 90km bike course with steep climbs – including the Hochkönigand – and fast descents
with a total of 860m of elevation and it’s rounded off with a new two-lap run course along the shores of Lake Zell
you can find all the details you need on start times
streaming and who to watch out for in the professional women and men’s fields.
The race takes place on Sunday September 1. The pro races will begin with the men at 11:00 local time
That corresponds to 10:00 / 10:02 in the UK and 05:00 / 05:02 Eastern Time
As part of the IRONMAN Pro Series there is live coverage – which will be embedded below nearer the time so you don’t have to leave this page
The race will be broadcast for free across multiple platforms for global viewers including proseries.ironman.com
The ever reliable IRONMAN Tracker is the perfect data addition to the live coverage too
whether for the pro races or following friends or family in the age-group events
Defending champion Daniela Bleymehl (GER) returns to the start line in the women’s race hoping to improve on her sixth position in the IRONMAN Pro Series standings
and is joined by plenty of other women currently in the top 20 of the standings
However that doesn’t include Britain’s Kat Matthews. She’s on the start list but after her runner-up spot at 70.3 Tallinn on Sunday, she confirmed on her Instagram page: “To clarify
Kylie Simpson (AUS) has been consistent so far this season with four top-10 finishes in the IRONMAN Pro Series races
including third at the IRONMAN Asia-Pacific Championship Cairns race
Another Aussie contender is Ellie Salthouse – who has been on the podium in all three of her IRONMAN 70.3 races this year
Young Danish athelete Laura Madsen is now up into the top 20 in the PTO’s world rankings and has two IRONMAN 70.3 wins to her name in 2024 – at 70.3 Les Sables d’Olonne-Vendée and 70.3 Valencia
Local Austrian interest comes in the shape of Sabrina Exenberger
Lisa-Maria Dornaeuer and Tanja Stroschneider
German athletes have a great record in this event and they start as favourites in the men’s race
with Jan Stratmann hoping to improve on his second-place finish from last year
while Nicholas Mann is in great form with two IRONMAN Pro Series race wins to his name this season
Other athletes racing and contending in the IRONMAN Pro Series include Gregory Barnaby (ITA)
currently in 10th position after a podium at the Mainova IRONMAN European Championship race in Frankfurt a fortnight ago
And Stenn Goetstouwers (BEL) is back after he finished third at the 2023 Zell am See-Kaprun
The prize purse on offer this weekend is $50,000 – with each of the winners collecting a $7,500 share of that total
athletes will also earn points as they seek to become the IRONMAN Pro Series Champion and win a share of the $1.7 million bonus prize purse.
the maximum possible score will be 2,500 points for 1st place
with points for all remaining professional finishers diminishing based on the time deficit to first place
at a rate of 1 point per 1 second deficit to the winner’s finishing time.
In addition to money and series points, there will be a total of six qualifying slots (three MPRO + three FPRO) for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Marbella
Follow the madness of the 'Race that eats its young' on RUN247
20th August 2024 | Simon Miller, Zell am See, Austria.
We’re in Austria for some summer activities. Primarily sailing, but also e-biking, hiking, via ferrata and tobogganing. Who says the mountains are just for winter?
When you then tell them that the lakes in Austria provide what are arguably some of the best places to learn to sail anywhere in the world
Zell am See will be best known to PlanetSKI readers as a wonderful family ski resort
The 4km long lake still freezes in places some winters and old pictures of Zell am See show rally cars racing across the ice
But in August 2024 the lake is a wonderful 23 degrees – no wetsuit required
As a family we have been lucky enough to have been on a few flotilla sailing holidays
the teenagers would spend their time sunbathing
snorkeling and capturing Instagram fodder – anything really other than learn to sail
I check them and my equally landlubber wife in to a beginners sailing class at the local sailing school on the promise that they would be able to sail after just four afternoon lessons
The first session rolls around and we meet Harry who runs the local sailing school
He wears a battered Red Bull Extreme Sailing Series hat – the kind that looks like he has taken part rather than just being a fan
After a few basic safety checks and before the teenagers have a chance to complain
he has them in a Caravelle – a 4m dingy with two sails – and explains how to hoist & lower the sails
The wind is relatively light and therefore perfect for beginners
and I watch as each of them take it in turns to helm the boat through gentle tacks and jibes
they are sailing with confidence – albeit with Harry onboard to provide tuition and encouragement
Lake Zell is as controlled a setting for novice sailors as you could wish for
As any sailor will tell you when things go wrong on a boat they go wrong very quickly
but with only a gentle breeze filling the sails there is never any rush or cause for panic affording the teens plenty of time to enact every manoeuvre
This is idyllic “Swallows and Amazons” sailing at its finest and after just a couple of tutored sessions they are able to take the boat out without Harry on board
We are blessed with good sailing conditions every day but for those seeking a more thrilling sailing experience other larger lakes such as Wörthersee may be a better bet
Even with no wind there are plenty of alternative ways to enjoy the clear waters
the lake is a clean and inviting safe space for paddleboards
windsurfers and kitesurfers as well as swimmers
We were also impressed with the free municipal bathing spaces around the lake
Of course the majority of people who come to the mountains in the summer come for hiking
we decide that it’s time to head up the mountain
The staff at Brundl Sports have our ebikes set up before we arrive and we are soon heading up to meet friends at the Enzian Hütte for the obligatory schnitzel and Kaisersmarren
before continuing up to the HundStein at 2177m
With only a modicum of effort we cover vast distances
gain some serious altitude and enjoy viewpoints that would otherwise not be possible to reach in single day with just manual pedal power
Last summer PlanetSKI’s James Cove was e-biking
Coming to the Alps without doing a bit of climbing feels like a missed opportunity for me
The tourist office gives us dozens of options to consider and we settle on the impressive dams above nearby Kaprun
keen to try the spectacular “Via Ferrata” or fixed cable climb
Getting to the start point is in itself a fascinating adventure involving a cable car
a funicular and 2 short bus rides through a warren of narrow tunnels that burrow through the mountains
the sheer scale of the dam reveals itself and the ebullient teenagers become noticeably quieter
gloves and most importantly a climbing belt with two carabiners to clip onto the fixed cable for safety
We zip wire in silence on to the dam from where
despite the obvious vertiginous nature of “walls”
it is a moderately straightforward climb to the top – provided of course that you don’t look down
Whilst being a very average climber – more a scrambler than proper climber
I am always drawn by the prospect of getting to a peak with a cross
I am never quite sure what determines whether a peak warrants a cross but I take this as a useful guide to worthwhile targets
the Kitzsteinhorn is the regions highest mountain and with a lift system that takes you to just a few hundred metres short of the top
this must surely be one of the easiest ascents in the Alps
With a reasonable head for heights and good footwear the scramble to the summit is perfectly doable for reasonably fit scramblers in good weather
you are denied a sense of achievement but no matter
You are rewarded with wonderful views of the Grossglockner (Austria’s highest mountain) and an opportunity to toboggan on the glacier
I’m always amazed at the sheer variety of mountain based summer activities offered by Austrian resorts
It’s a 2-for-1 summer holiday mixing the best elements of a beach holiday with traditional mountain pursuits
And with unpleasantly high Mediterranean temperatures bordering on the dangerous – summer on a beach of an Austrian lake is a great option
Getting to Zell am See: British Airways to Salzburg, a short bus to the main station and then a 2 hour train to Zell am See or hire a car to drive the 80kms. Hotel: www.seevilla-freiberg.at/en
Guide Office: www.alpinskischule.at/home.html
Tourist Office: www.zellamsee-kaprun.com/en or www.austria.info/en
Sailing School: www.segelschule-zellamsee.at
Enzian Hütte: www.berggasthof-zellamsee.at
For the Spirit of the Mountains – PlanetSKI: Number One for ski news
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Marino Vanhoenacker of Belgium and Kaisa Lehtonen of Finland scored decisive 70.3 victories at the site of the 2015 Ironman 70.3 Worlds – Zell am See-Kaprun
Lukasz Wojt of Germany crushed the swim in 22:27 which gave him a 1:35 lead on Manuel Küng of Switzerland and 2:01 to 2:07 over a pack of 7 men
Dangerous cyclist-runner Markus Thomschke of Germany started his day 3:18 arrears
Vanhoenacker grabbed a 3 seconds lead on Wojt and 1:43 on Fachbach
Vanhoenacker increased his leads to 1:13 on Wojt
Vanhoenacker hit T2 with a 4:28 lead on Wojt
By 12 km of the run Vanhoenacker increased his lead to 6:13 over Thomschke
Vanhoenacker finished in 4:06:05 with a 5:18 margin of victory over Hayes (1:21:15 run)
and 8:37 over 5th place Michael Ruenz of Germany
who closed with a race-best 1:19:20 half marathon
Kate Comber of Great Britain led the pro women’s wave with a 25:48 swim which gave her a 1:46 lead on countrywomen Emma Pallant
Alexandra Tondeur of Belgium and Kamila Polak of Austria
Comber kept her lead until 60km of the bike leg
After a women’s-fastest 2:30:55 bike split
Lehtonen arrived in T2 with a 2:06 lead on Tine Holst of Denmark (2:31:24 bike split)
Pallant surged past Holst into the runner-up spot
2:56 behind Lehtonen and 34 seconds ahead of Holst
Lehtonen meanwhile increased her lead to 6 minutes
After posting a women's-fastest 1:25:14 run split
the flying Finn finished in 4:30:11 with a 6:49 margin of victory over Holst and 8:06 over 3rd-place Pallant
2015 70.3 world champion Daniela Ryf finished the race in 4:11:34 and runner up Heather Wurtele finished in 4:23:07
Lehtonen’s long course résumé continues to impress
In 2015 she won Ironman Barcelona in 8:48:40 (the 28th fastest women’s time for the distance) and this year she won the 4,000 KPR points Ironman Regional Championship in South Africa and placed 3rd at Ironman 70.3 Dubai
Lehtonen ranks 12th woman in the 2016 KPR Points Ranking System and will contest at Kona
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around a 90-minute drive from the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg
Zell am See-Kaprun is home to majestic mountains
to the grassy slopes of Schmittenhöhe mountain and the rocky summit of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier
We’ve rounded up some of the best summer experiences and adventures for every type of traveller — from hikes among breathtaking natural scenery to foodie experiences and brilliant activities for all the family
from stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking and waterskiing. Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun1
Watersports on Lake ZellBest for: families
While there are plenty of easy hiking trails suitable for families on the surrounding hills and mountains, Lake Zell itself offers oodles of family fun
rent a rowing boat or stand-up paddleboard
or just enjoy a refreshing swim with a view — motorboats are prohibited on the lake and the water is remarkably clean
There are also several lidos around the shores
playgrounds and plenty of scope for lounging in the sun
My First 3,000m Peak is a guided summit tour of the Kitzsteinhorn peak with a state-certified mountain guide.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun2
Scale the Kitzsteinhorn peakBest for: active travellers
Feeling a tad more intrepid? From late June to late September, adventure-enthusiasts can tackle My First 3,000m Peak — a guided summit tour of the Kitzsteinhorn mountain
which starts at the highest accessible point in Salzburgerland
visitors scale the final 650 feet secured with ropes
following the lead of a state-certified mountain guide
the Kitzsteinhorn’s airy summit has epic views across the Alpine peaks of the Hohe Tauern
including the Grossvenediger and the 12,500 foot Grossglockner — the highest mountain in Austria and the Eastern Alps
meeting at the Gletscherjet Valley station
Helmets and harnesses are available for hire
has a variety of interactive displays about the Hohe Tauern National Park. Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun3
Take the Kitzsteinhorn Explorer Tour Best for: nature enthusiasts
In the expert company of a national park ranger, the Kitzsteinhorn Explorer Tour is an amazing opportunity to see and learn about the majestic Kitzsteinhorn mountain up close
Using the Kaprun-Maiskogel-Kitzsteinhorn cable car routes — the longest lift axis in the Eastern Alps
covering a staggering seven-and-a-half miles
with an altitude gain of 7,400 feet — with short spells of walking in between
of which there are around 40 breeding pairs in the national park
In a country with no shortage of superlative mountain vistas
The historic city centre of Zell am See is located at the base of the Schmittenhohe
on the shores of Lake Zell. Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun4
Stroll through the Old Town of Zell am SeeBest for: culture-seekers
Culture-seekers should opt to take a guided walking tour of the old town centre in Zell am See using their smartphone. Local Guide is a digital platform that tells the history of the city
not only through facts but also through the voices and stories of local people
who really help bring the place to life – from the medieval town square to the Austria Fountain designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser
There’s no need to download an app – just scan the QR codes at the tour’s 10 information points or connect via Bluetooth to access all the information and local stories
organic breakfast on its sundeck.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun5
Gourmet breakfast on a boatBest for: gastronomes
Take a relaxing boat tour on Lake Zell aboard the twin-decked MS Schmittenhöhe
you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the Schmittenhöhe
its ridge enclosing the western side of the lake in a gentle arc and the snow-capped sprawl of the Hohe Tauern to the south
you can see the Steinerne Meer or ‘sea of rock’ — a huge limestone plateau that forms part of the Berchtesgaden Alps on the border between Salzburgerland and Bavaria
organic breakfast on the sundeck features some of the best locally sourced produce from the BijoFARM at Fusch an der Grossglockner — a family-run
organic farm located at the foot of the Grossglockner Alpine High Road
where they grow their own organic vegetables and roses
and raise free-range geese and dwarf zebu cattle
Breathe in great lungfuls of fresh air on a yoga session on the Schmittenhöhe mountain.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun6
Outdoor yoga on the Schmittenhöhe Best for: those seeking a wellness retreat
Between late June and early September, there are outdoor yoga sessions on the lush
grassy slopes of Schmittenhöhe — a beautiful and tranquil setting that promises spectacular
natural views over Lake Zell and fresh mountain air
Led by power yoga instructor Monika Rauter
the two-hour sessions take place on Wednesday mornings and are free with a valid cable-car ticket
Yoga sessions are also on offer down on the water at Lake Zell
where yoga mats are exchanged with stand-up paddleboards to encourage an increased awareness of movement
direct trains to Zell am See-Kaprun that take around 90 minutes
Schmittenhöhe Zell am See and Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
For more information and to book your trip, visit zellamsee-kaprun.com/summer
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Austria
From how to budget to my all-time favourite resorts
‘Schifoan ist des leiwandste,’ as they say in Austria (that’s ‘skiing is the coolest’ to the uninitiated)
Given that about 60 percent of the country is covered in mountains
it’s hardly surprising that skiing runs in our blood in Austria – a lifelong love affair for those of us who have been lucky enough to call this place home
I was first put on skis near Zell Am See at the age of four and decades later, I’m still making an annual pilgrimage to the Austrian Alps. In that time
as a teenager when I briefly dabbled with snowboarding
as an overconfident 20-plus year-old and as a more cautious middle-ager
Nowadays I also join my school friends and watch their kids having as much fun as we did.
Skiing is undeniably a privilege but the beautiful scenery
the fresh air and the sheer unbridled fun of it makes it worth every euro cent – be it on one of the panoramic glacial resorts or from one of the traditional small villages Austria is famed for. ‘Gemütlichkeit’ is a term often associated with Austria and
while there’s no direct English translation
the sense of cosiness it conveys is still what I feel whenever I come ‘home’
For there is nothing better than warming up with a Glühwein and tucking into a hearty plate of Kaiserschmarrn for those with a sweet tooth – or a Tiroler Gröstl for those who prefer savoury
like me – in a rustic mountain hut at the end of a hard day’s skiing.
⛷️ Discover the most affordable ski holidays in Europe
Austria punches above its weight on winter holiday options compared to its European rivals
Skiing is an integral part of local life here
and the majority of its top resorts are super easy to get to
less than two hours from Salzburg or Innsbruck airports (and you mostly don’t need a car either)
So if you’re looking for a quick weekend ski trip
Most Austrian ski resorts open in December
although some higher ones will open in November depending on snow
The end of the season is generally late March or April
with higher resorts staying open later – at Stubai and Kitzsteinhorn
skiing is available pretty much year-round. Peak season runs from late December to early March
and February is particularly busy with locals and tourists.
Accommodation varies from self-catering to guest houses and five-star spa hotels, but all of them are operating at a pretty high standard. If you’re looking for a package deal from the UK, Inghams and Crystal Ski are two of the longest-running providers
although bear in mind that many hotels also offer deals on ski passes
equipment rental and transfers if you want to book yourself
The medieval Tyrolean town of Kitzbühel is one of Austria’s most exclusive resorts
home to 233km of pistes and the world’s longest ski circuit
‘Kitz’ is particularly popular with luxury travellers – it’s sometimes called the ‘Crown Jewel of the Alps’ – although there’s a range of accommodation options available.
Austria’s ‘snowiest’ ski resort, and the highest in Salzburgerland, is great for intermediate skiers with more than 100km of pistes on the doorstep of what is known as the ‘snow bowl’. Obertauern resort successfully caters to both families and party animals
and music fans will appreciate its links to the Beatles
Stay here: Alpenhotel Perner
Stay here: Hotel Bergjuwel
Stay here: Almdorf Almlust
Stay here: ALPtyrol Appartements
The Ski Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrenn is one of Europe’s finest
with 70 lifts and 270km of pistes – and now even connects all the way to Zell Am See-Kaprun ski area thanks to a new lift
Saalbach is also known for being one of Austria’s prettiest ski villages
with its onion-domed church surrounded by timber houses
Stay here: Hotel DIE SONNE
with 144km of pistes and access to two glaciers
but mark my words – the food served on the mountain is some of the finest ski fodder in Austria.
Stay here: The Secret Sölden
Maria Alm is an entry point to Salzburgerland’s Hochkönig ski region
covering 120km of pistes including the 35km Königstour panoramic route that runs from one end to the other and back again
the picture-perfect village has plenty of interesting accommodation options and restaurants to choose from.
Stay here: Jufenalm BOHO Hotel & Restaurant
Serfaus and its neighbouring villages of Fiss and Ladis make it one of Tyrol’s greatest family-friendly resorts, with three-quarters of its 161km of pistes aimed at beginner and intermediate skiers
The linked area is known for its child-friendly hotels and excellent ski schools
with a new 10-person lift able to carry 3,500 passengers an hour.
Stay here: Nagalu
Just half an hour away from Innsbruck, the small resort of Seefeld is popular with people who want to travel by train
The pace of life tends to be a lot slower here and many skiers come here to enjoy the cosy mountain huts as well as the 26km of skiing on the high plateau at 2,000m above sea level
Free ski buses connect to other nearby ski areas
Stay here: Alte Schmiede Hiltpolt
excellent infrastructure and great variety of accommodation options
Austria genuinely does have something for skiers of every ability.
please note that Austrian saunas tend to be strictly swimsuit free
the best way to warm up after a day’s skiing is in one of the rustic huts Austria is renowned for with a hot chocolate and an apfelstrüdel
📍 Looking to extend your stay in Austria? Check out our lists of the best hotels in Vienna, the best restaurants in Vienna and the best things to do in Salzburg.
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AustriaTry your hand at a new active adventure this winter season
The Austrian alpine village has options for new thrill seekers and seasoned adventurers alike
At the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park
It’s the only glacier ski resort in SalzburgerLand
with one of the longest winter seasons in the Alps
With a thick layer of powder sticking to the glacial ice
winter sports are possible here for a far longer season than elsewhere in the mountains
but it’s just one of many exhilarating ways to enjoy the mountains
glaciers and lakes of Zell am See-Kaprun with skis in tow.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus1
which offers access to multi-day passes across the resort
250 miles of pistes are available to skiers of all abilities
For those hungry to notch up the distances
with new panorama cabins from Maiskogel to the Glacier Kitzsteinhorn
You’ll also find an information base at the Alpincentre providing data about the weather
You can also test your avalanche equipment here
Zell am See-Kaprun hosts an array of weekly activities for travellers
introducing them to experiences ranging from invigorating freerides to tours of the local winter markets
or strap on your snowshoes and follow an experienced mountain guide along a snow-laden trail
A glacier-top viewing spot on the Kitzsteinhorn, above Salzburg.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus4. Winter hikingThis is ideal winter-hiking territory, with 25 miles of trails marked on Zell am See-Kaprun’s interactive hiking map
stretching from about 0.25 miles to 17.5 miles
Families can enjoy the Kitzsteinhorn Explorer Tour through four climate zones
Crossing open meadows and snow-covered forests
fitness fans seeking a new skill can tackle Zell am See-Kaprun’s scenic cross-country ski tracks
the area’s 66 miles of tracks include high-altitude routes on glacier ice
Catching fresh powder in the morning on the Schmittenhöhe.Photograph by Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus7
SnowshoeingExplore the quiet side of the mountains by picking up hiking poles and strapping on snowshoes
Follow the marked hiking routes on your own or join a guided hike
where travellers can take in panoramic views of Lake Zell
try the Ice Camp Trail on the Kitzsteinhorn
if for no other reason than the chance to survey the expanse of the Austrian Alps from its viewing platform at the top
you’ll have the chance to show off your best freestyle tricks
there’s the 492ft superpipe on the Kitzsteinhorn
frequented by top international athletes and host to annual freestyle competitions
There are five snow parks on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier and one on the Schmittenhöhe
Regular flights link the UK to Munich (105 miles) and Salzburg (52 miles)
Zell am See’s central station has regular services from around Austria
the free Zell am See-Kaprun app is useful as it includes real-time weather
as well as ski touring and hiking routes — and much more
Learn more at zellamsee-kaprun.com/winter
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Germany dominated at IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See on Sunday as Caroline Pohle and Mika Noodt notched terrific victories
Pohle produced another incredible performance just a week on from being crowned IRONMAN 70.3 European Champion in Tallinn as she came home just over a minute-and-a-half ahead of Australia’s Grace Thek
Noodt meanwhile blasted clear during a superb bike leg to build an advantage over Belgian Olympian Jelle Geens that he would not relinquish for the rest of the day
meaning the all-important IRONMAN Pro Series points remained tight.Pohle said afterwards: “It was my first back-to-back racing
A similar dynamic unfolded in the men’s pro race with Noodt taking the lead early on the bike
resulting in him having the fastest bike split of the day and securing a course best time in the process (2:02:11)
He started the run with a 4:47 minute lead over Jelle Geens
I think it’s the best bike course – some small rolls
Such a nice rhythm and great spectators.”Noodt added: “I was a little worried about the last 5km as that was my longest run since last October when I had to crawl the last few meters
"Race Ranks" are based on the global rankings of the athletes competing in this race, reflecting their positions relative to one another. For example, if one of the athletes is ranked 10th globally, but they are the highest-ranked in this race, they will be ranked #1
reflecting their positions relative to one another
if one of the athletes is ranked 10th globally
but they are the highest-ranked in this race
"Race Ranks" are based on the global rankings of the athletes competing in this race
the EVZ will play its first test games of the season
The men’s team will face Red Bull Salzburg in the evening
while the women’s team will take on the Graz Huskies in the afternoon
the EVZ teams traveled to the training camp in Zell am See-Kaprun (AUT) at the beginning of this week
the women’s team will face the Graz Huskies on Friday
while the men will play their first test game against the reigning ICE Hockey League champions
on the evening of the same day at 7:15 pm. The EVZ is looking forward to welcoming numerous fans
Anyone who does not yet have a ticket or would like to travel spontaneously to Zell am See-Kaprun at the weekend has the opportunity to purchase tickets for the two games via the link below
The matches can also be followed in the Game Center
with the men’s match featuring a live ticker with commentary
It's ski season all across Europe - and Directski.com want to give you a holiday you'll never forget
All this week on 98FM, you have the chance to win an unforgettable ski holiday for two, courtesy of the Irish owned ski tour company, Directski.com
One lucky winner and their partner will be whisked away on a wonderful ski holiday to the resort of Zell am See in Austria
The winner will stay at the 3* Pension Edelweiss Resort for 7 nights with breakfast
return flights from Dublin and airport transfers all included
There's also 4 €250 Directski.com vouchers up for grabs for the runners-up
tune in to 98FM's Big Breakfast from 7am all this week from Monday 10th of February 2025
Developed by Square1
A small air plane on its way to Luxembourg crash-landed near Zell am See
The 59-year-old pilot was killed in the crash
had left Banja Luka in Bosnia in the early afternoon and was only supposed to make an intermediate stop in Austria when it crash-landed around 1.30pm
rushed to the air plane in an effort to provide first aid
the pilot succumbed to his injuries at the scene
The cause of the crash is not known at this stage
The Austrian ski resort of Zell am See-Kaprun combines mountain
glacier and lake to form an unforgettable winter sports holiday experience
with pistes often open from mid-October to May
At the heart of this resort are its three main attractions: glacier
which form the fantastic backdrop for unforgettable winter sports days
with brilliant on and off-piste ski terrain.
Kaprun town centre offers easy access to the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier via the Maiskogel
and you can get to the Schmittenhöhe area from Zell am See
the stunning views out across the lake from the surrounding mountains
The Schmittenhöhe ski area offers 77 km of perfectly groomed slopes
and is one of the highlights of the region with its varied range of pistes
The runs span the whole range from wide family pistes
Five long valley runs promise pure enjoyment
while children can let off steam on one of the longest fun slopes in the world and sporty skiers test the black Trass – a slope more than 4 km long with over 1,000m of vertical and a gradient of up to 70 per cent
ski-out direct from the town centre to the glacier and back
the Kitzsteinhorn gives you high-altitude skiing on wide glacier slopes with freeride and ski touring routes
world-class snow parks and panoramic viewpoints
The Kitzsteinhorn is also a great for non-skiers, offering views of more than thirty 3,000m peaks from the Top of Salzburg viewing platform
wide slopes down to the village centre and an exciting new ski tour route from Kaprun to the summit
The Kitzsteinhorn is also home to the Gipfelwelt 3000 restaurant
a remarkable high-altitude dining experience
Sited directly at the border to the spectacular Hohe Tauern National Park
the Gipfelwelt 3000 is a popular excursion destination all year round
The views from the viewing platforms Top of Salzburg and National Park Gallery are exceptional
A lakeside stroll after the sun has set is a must to see the reflections and experience the quiet calm of being in the mountains at night
The traditional mountain town of Zell am See itself is also perfect for exploring, with boutique shops, traditional bars for a quiet drink, or popular spots for some lively après ski. Or want to relax after a day on the ski slopes? Head over to the Tauern Spa in nearby Kaprun for a taste of tranquility and enjoy its huge selection of 12 indoor and outdoor pools
Zell am See-Kaprun is dedicated to an environmentally-conscious approach to skiing
All gondolas and lifts here operate on green energy generated from renewable resources
The Kitzsteinhorn snowmaking system is fed and powered by water from the Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs
a small natural lake at 2,500m above sea level and the water reservoir at 'Langwiedboden' sitting at 1,900m
The drinking water supply comes exclusively from springs in the Kitzsteinhorn area
Several UK tour operators offer holiday packages to Zell am See-Kaprun ski resort
For more information about skiing Zell am See-Kaprun this winter, go to austria.info/en/winter/zell-am-see-kaprun
Austria’s Alps offer travellers an inviting mix of culture
Find out which area would suit you this summer
For some of the most spectacular views in Austria
head to Dachstein Mountain in the Schladming-Dachstein region — and don't miss the dramatic ‘Stairway to Nothingness’.Photograph by Schladming-Dachstein
2024One of Europe’s top skiing destinations in winter
the Austrian Alps are sometimes overlooked as a place to visit in summer
But once the snow seekers go into hibernation and the ski schools shut up shop
meadows and valleys here take on a different look — and other activities take centre stage
climbing and biking routes across the Alps
Travellers chasing an action-packed break can try cycling in Kitzbühel or paragliding in St Anton
while those in search of peace and quiet could venture to the nature park in Zillertal
visit the bustling city of Innsbruck or head to Paznaun-Ischgl
discover the right Austrian Alpine region for you
a fun combination of river surfing and wakeboarding
Best for: mountain bikingA place that holds many accolades for its skiing facilities, glitzy Kitzbühel also flexes its muscles in summertime. Take biking, for example — the area has hosted a cycling marathon, Der Kitzbüheler Radmarathon
since 2021 and boasts one of the most challenging road ascents in Austria: the Kitzbüheler Horn
Mountain bikers will love the recently opened Sonnenrast trail or the single-track Hahnenkamm route
Alongside Ischgl’s high-end restaurants are a number of rustic mountain huts
which from July to October offer seasonal dishes developed by local chefs
Traditional cooking is combined with gourmet flair
with last year’s highlights including Alpine beef with wild herbs
be sure to taste the region's signature cheese
which gets its distinct taste from alpine herbs
The mountain station at 2,700m above sea level is easily reachable by cable car and offers views as far as the Czech Republic and Slovenia
a viewing platform and the snappily titled ‘Stairway to Nothingness’ await visitors here
while a shiny new cable car station is scheduled to open in May 2024
St Anton am Arlberg is easy to reach by train thanks to regular high-speed connections from Vienna and Zurich
with 12 pools and a selection of wellness areas including 10 saunas and steam rooms — try the rock crystal sauna with different infusions such as mint and citrus or lemongrass and eucalyptus
and be sure to set aside ample time to take in the surrounding scenery
The Local Europe ABVästmannagatan 43113 25 StockholmSweden
and Aperol Après-Ski Events are bringing music
The main events are at Zielhaus on February 6th and 7th
followed by a Soul Dayparty at Rosi’s Sonnbergstuben on February 8th
you can also enjoy après-ski every Thursday at Oberkaser Alm and every Tuesday at Hofalm
with an additional monthly event at The Londoner Kitzbühel-Pub
More details can be found here
Whether planning a weekend getaway to the Alps
February 14th is a great excuse to treat yourself and your partner
making it the perfect opportunity for a long weekend escape
READ ALSO: Valentine’s Day: Six of the best spots for a romantic date in Vienna
the Art on Snow festival in Gastein transforms the town into a winter wonderland filled with incredible snow and ice sculptures
This year’s theme is "Fairy Tales," featuring majestic dragons
and visitors who complete the Art on Snow Challenge by discovering at least seven sculptures can win prizes
More information can be found here
and whether you want to experience a grand traditional ball or a modern spin on the event
one of the most unique events is the Hip-Hop Ball on February 15th
where guests can enjoy urban beats in an elegant ballroom setting
the Tuntenball on February 22nd promises an extravagant
inclusive celebration with drag performances and dazzling outfits
READ ALSO: How the Viennese waltz became a symbol of elegance and tradition in Vienna
NostalSki: A retro ski race in Zell am See
If you love vintage skiing, the NostalSki event in Zell am See on February 22nd is a must-see. Participants race down the slopes in old-fashioned ski gear, recreating the look and feel of classic Alpine skiing. The event attracts competitors from across Europe, including Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Slovenia, making it a nostalgic and entertaining experience. Registration and event details are available here
winter yoga sessions are being held on Patscherkofel
Every Friday at 2:30 pm and Sunday at 10:30 am
visitors can participate in yoga classes with panoramic views of the snow-covered Alps
The sessions take place at the mountain station of the Patscherkofelbahn and cost €18 per class
Participants are required to bring their own yoga mats
Find more details here
Vertical Up: Race up the Streif in Kitzbühel
For those looking for an intense physical challenge
Vertical Up in Kitzbühel is one of the toughest winter races in Austria
On February 22nd, competitors will attempt to race 3.3 km straight up the Streif, one of the world’s most famous downhill ski courses. There are no rules on how to get up the slope - participants can use skis, crampons, snowshoes, or any other method that works. Registration closes on February 20th, and entry starts at €54. Learn more here
a time to recognise the contributions and history of Black communities worldwide
In Austria, various events highlight important race, culture, and identity discussions. The Weltmuseum in Vienna will host special workshops throughout the month, including "A Picture of Africa Made in Europe" on February 7th
an event that examines how Africa has been represented in European history
and it’s a great opportunity to engage in important conversations
the perfect time to explore Austria’s many attractions
Whether you’re looking to relax at a thermal spa
there are countless ways to enjoy the winter break
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by Will_Broadhead – January 22, 2019
Behind me lies the darkness, punctuated on occasion by the odd light of a chalet or gondola mast, quiet and still otherwise. But in front of me there is a great deal of excitement happening, the snort of engines and their rev limiters, clouds of ice being tossed into the air then dancing back down to the ground under the glow of spotlights. This is Zell am See, and I’m here for the return of the legendary ice races.
It’s a strange sight for me, walking across an expanse of frozen earth that is populated by the race trucks and awnings that I’m used to seeing on the concrete and asphalt of traditional racing circuit paddocks. It’s exciting to be here though, it looks a bit like a rally stage in some places, and there is a definite hum of energy in the air, with large swathes of racing fans enjoying the unrestricted access to almost everything that’s going on here.
It has the feel of a festival about it, and I’m pleased to see that the fences lining the circuit are teeming with fans. There is a full complement of automotive entries as well, with 150 cars recorded across the various racing categories in a program that will see MK1 Golfs sharing the track with KTM X-Bows; M3s facing off against Alfasuds, and even a Steyr-Puch 650 TR making it into the mix.
With a mix of amateur and pro drivers in town, the action on track ranges from the ultra-fast and highly talented, to those sliding around a bit more wildly. Spins and scrapes against the snowy embankments elicit huge cheers from the thousands of faces trackside, and although everything is taking place at a relatively low speed, it’s properly exciting to watch, and the spectator vantage points here are as close as you’re likely to see at any motorsport event.
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10th March 2024 | James Cove, Zell am See/Kaprun, Austria.
It offers typical Austrian slopes, with access to a high-altitude and snow sure glacier area. Plus more than 400kms of slopes with its links to the Ski Circus resorts. PlanetSKI is sampling its attractions.
more traditional villages and larger ski areas
But I’m scratching my head trying to thing of a better place in Austria that offers all in one area
This winter in the Alps has general seen poor snow at low altitude and good snow at high altitude
as it determines whether ski areas receive snow or rain
When the snow has been good at low altitude it has been great
but such conditions can’t be guaranteed and have sadly been few and far between
Temperatures in the Alps last month were the highest February ones ever recorded and took the inevitable toll on the lower slopes
what better ski area to visit than one that offers a bit of everything
Kaprun is in the distance (skiing to 3,000m) with Zell am See (skiing to 2,000m) in the foreground
From our base in the pretty alpine village of Kaprun
we headed up to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier that offers the highest skiing in Salzburgerland
It was the first glacier resort to be opened in Austria back in the mid-1960s
It wasn’t a pretty sight heading up though the Maiskogel ski area
By the mid-station things had somewhat improved
Standing at the top of a steep snow-laded slope above the mid-station it was hard to believe I was in the same resort as the thin streak of white snow we’d seen from the first gondola out of the village just half an hour ago
The top is a smallish ski area with no really long vertical descents
The glacial scenery was simply stunning once the clouds lifted
With generally poor snow at low altitude many people are heading high
I reported on the general conditions at Kitzsteinhorn in a couple of PlanetSKI video snow reports:
After the high-altitude slopes at Kitzsteinhorn we wanted some variety and something more typically Austrian – we headed to Zell am See that’s about 10-minutes away by local bus
Now talking of buses Zell am See/Kaprun is about an hour and a half from Salzburg airport and is easily and cheaply reached by public transport with a one-way journey by bus just €19 (£16.20) for two people
“It’s crazy as I paid £300 for a return transfer to Val d’Isere just last week,” said PlanetSKI reporter
It is perhaps the exact opposite of Kitzsteinhorn
with a large ski area spread over generally gentle slopes
It is gentle cruising on flattering slopes
The lower slopes were closed due to a lack of snow
but up top it was very much business as usual in a wonderfully pretty Austrian setting
The skiing goes up to 2,000m with some fabulous views of Lake Zell and around 30 peaks of over 3,000m
It was too tempting not to relax in a deckchair – especially after the glacier exploits of the last couple of days
Lunch at the newly-opened Sonnkogel restaurant was an absolute treat
We timed it to perfection as there was also free wine tasting on offer
Zell an See/Kaprun is also linked into the resorts of the Ski Circus – Saalbach
We didn’t have time to make it over on our quick visit
The snow deteriorated in the warm afternoon temperatures in Zell am See
Kaprun is growing in popularity and is a pretty village with quickest access to the highest slopes
And something more appealing for younger people on a budget
All in all my 3-day visit to Zell am See/Kaprun has been a bit of an eye-opener
I am still scratching my head trying to think of a ski area in Austria than offers such a wide variety of skiing
local sprint distance race is usually the starting point to dip their toe into the world of multisport before stepping up to the longer distances
that journey to the start line of her first middle distance triathlon was set to be fast-tracked
She won a competition for an entry to IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See
Having only 14 weeks to prepare for a half distance triathlon would be a tall order for anyone
So you can imagine that Abbie was well and truly throwing herself in at the deep end when her to do list involved ‘learn how to swim’ and ‘get a bike’
Having gone from complete beginner to half Ironman finisher in a little over 3 months, Abbie has caught the triathlon bug and is set to take on more swim-bike-run in 2025 as part of Team Outlaw
Whether you’re already set to race your first half Ironman this year – or you’re hesitating over that ‘enter now’ button
Read on to find out why Abbie believes “you can literally do anything you set your mind to”
and to get her top tips for taking on your first middle distance triathlon
Getting ready to take on your first middle distance triathlon (1.9km swim / 90km bike / 21.1km run) can feel daunting
Get Abbie’s insights on what taking on the distance was really like
after she made a quick transition from total beginner to half Ironman finisher
it can be easy to feel like every other person is a seasoned PRO who knows exactly what they’re doing
“I imagined I would be [the only beginner],” says Abbie
I was overtaking grown men swimming breaststroke in the water.”
“People were so friendly on race day
I made friends with a local group as we waited to get in the water
they were beginners too and it was their first half Ironman
They were equally apprehensive about the swim which made me feel so much better on the start line
the thought of an ultra-competitive field and a hostile race day atmosphere can be off putting
as most age-groupers will vouch for – it’s actually a much more welcoming and inclusive environment than you might think
“Unless you’re a pro or a top age-group athlete
most people are just competing against themselves,” Abbie explains
“It’s beautiful to see people of all ages
genders and ethnicities from all over the world take on such a big challenge for their own personal reasons.”
Don’t let the fear of an intimidating or competitive environment put you off giving a longer distance triathlon a go – a half Ironman might sound terribly serious
most people ultimately just want to find out what they’re capable of
but that doesn’t mean you’re on your own come race day
“The support was amazing and I was smiling (almost) the whole time,” Abbie reflects
“Other athletes will help you and cheer you on
and the volunteers at the aid stations.”
There’s a strong sense of community in triathlon
so you can rest assured that whether you’re heading to a race with a full squad of friend/family cheerleaders in tow
You’ll get plenty of support from start to finish
Pulling the trigger on that ‘enter now’ button for your first half Ironman distance triathlon can be scary
But if you keep putting it off until you’re ‘ready’ – you’ll probably never do it
none of us knew for sure we’d be able to finish our first 70.3 before we went and tried it – that’s all part of the journey
Tasking yourself with a big challenge and finding out what you’re capable of
Sometimes you need to take a leap and trust that you’ll work it out along the way
Entering the race will give you a deadline
and it’ll force you to focus on getting yourself ready for the start line
“You can literally do anything you set your mind to.”
“I won the ticket with 14 weeks to learn how to swim
buy a road bike and dramatically improve my running fitness and endurance.”
“I’d only ever run one half marathon before
you learn the most when you throw yourself in the deep end.”
Knowing how to train for a half Ironman and balance all the training with work and life can be a bit overwhelming
And while it’s perfectly possible to plan your training yourself – there’s plenty of training tips and resources out there
having someone to guide you through the process and manage your training load effectively can make a big difference to your confidence levels
“[Getting a coach] was the best decision I made,” explains Abbie
“it gave me an invaluable sense of calm confidence on race day
took all the mental stress out of planning sessions and made it that little bit easier to show up when motivation is lacking.”
If 1-1 triathlon coaching isn’t feasible
it’s worth looking for an online training plan to give you some structure
And joining your local triathlon club where you’ll have a hive mind of triathlon knowledge to call upon
Hopefully Abbie’s story has convinced you to take the plunge and enter your first half Ironman distance race
There’s plenty of triathlon training tips available to help you on your way to the start line
But based on her own experience of going from complete beginner to 70.3 finisher
we asked Abbie for her 3 top tips for taking on a middle distance triathlon
Of course you’ve got to build up your strength and endurance in the three individual triathlon disciplines
But it’s important as you get closer to race day to practice putting them together
Brick workouts (stacking two of the sports together
for example running straight after cycling) are a good way to get used to this
Start off completing two of the sports back to back at an easy pace to get used to the sensation
And then start injecting some pace so you get used to doing it at race intensity
“Practice running out of the water and running off the bike after HARD efforts,” Abbie recommends
“I did lots of brick workouts but nothing prepared me for the feeling on race day after pushing hard on the bike
You don’t want to do too many high intensity brick sessions in training – otherwise you risk injury/burnout
But a few sessions riding at your target race pace and running afterwards will help you to understand how hard you can push on the bike
And it’ll help to prepare you for how it’s going to feel on race day
The days leading up to your first big triathlon event can feel overwhelming
going through athlete registration and bike racking
and setting up your transition zone – the logistics alone are enough to set your mind whirling
let alone the matter of taking on the race itself
Abbie recommends taking the time to plan and go over all the details
“Spend time revising and visualising everything
Knowing this inside out is the best way to calm pre-race nerves when it all feels overwhelming.”
and controlling the controllables – like sticking to your nutrition plan and making sure you have plenty of time on race morning
You’ll have something to keep your mind occupied instead of dwelling on the nerves
and you’ll set yourself up for a stress free start to your race
It’s easy to get swept up in all the nerves
perceived pressure and ‘what ifs’ during any triathlon
you’ll only get to experience your first ever half distance triathlon once – so enjoy it
And the feeling of cycling on closed A-roads is unbeatable.”
Inspired to ‘tri’ a middle distance triathlon? Check out our round up of the best middle distance races for first timers and get a race booked – it’s time to put a date on achieving your goal!
Take advantage of the long ski season in Zell am See-Kaprun and explore some of the finest shimmering lakes and majestic mountains in Austria's SalzburgerLand
glacier skiing and a combined ski area of 408km with the new Ski ALPIN CARD make Zell am See-Kaprun utterly irresistible as a holiday destination
it has one of the longest ski seasons in Austria
starting in October and not finishing until early summer
Not only can you easily and directly get to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier from Kaprun via Maiskogel with the new 3K K-onnection cable car
but you can also take advantage of the zellamseeXpress that whizzes you from the Glemmtal Valley to the family and panorama mountain of Schmittenhöhe
The Ski ALPIN CARD is your ticket to ride some of the most scenic slopes in Austria
In keeping with Zell am See-Kaprun’s sustainability pledge
you can hop on environmentally friendly cable cars and even take the train from Salzburg Airport directly to the resort
take note: you can beat everyone else to the pistes by joining the selective few during Ski ’n’ Brunch
Start your day by making first tracks before rewarding yourself with a hearty brunch of Austrian dishes
if you’ve always wanted to try free-riding
the Kitzsteinhorn glacier offers five different freeride lines with info points
as well as a freeride workshop every Monday
Zell am See-Kaprun has been creating a buzz among fans of ski touring
particularly the Ronachkopf mountain in Thumersbach
It’s exclusively set aside for ski tourers and snowshoe hikers
Families are in for a treat on Schmittenhöhe mountain
where the XXL fun slope is one of the longest in the world
There’s more excitement in store for eager young skiers and snowboarders in Maisi Park in Maiskogel and the Eagle Line on Kitzsteinhorn
A full and varied programme of non-skiing activities is also taking place this season
hiking and torchlit winter walks all on offer
Slow down the pace with an afternoon session of yoga before taking a slow amble around the pretty streets of Zell am See
head to the TAUERN SPA and unwind in the indoor pool and spa
When you’re ready to get back on the slopes
you’ll have a superb choice of places to stop for a leisurely lunch
take in the heavenly views from Gipfel Restaurant
is the highest restaurant in SalzburgerLand
Pinzgauer Hütte on Schmittenhöhe is at the end of an 800m piste – but getting back is a doddle when you’re riding the restaurant’s motor-driven sledge
Beside the most glorious views over lake Zell
the mountain also offers culinary delights in four special restaurants: Areit Alm
Sonnkogel Restaurant and Franzl Panorama Restaurant
To find out more about Zell am See-Kaprun, visit austria.info and zellamsee-kaprun.com
Please check gov.uk before travel for the latest government guidance.
It was the perfect early Christmas present for German triathlon prodigy Mika Noodt
and it would be an understatement to say that Santa delivered
The talented 24-year-old is now officially triathlon’s latest Red Bull athlete, joining the likes of Lucy Charles-Barclay, Kristian Blummenfelt, Hayden Wilde and co
To make things even better, Noodt had the news confirmed by none other than this tri idol and long-time Red Bull flag bearer Sebastian Kienle
former IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 World Champion
Sebi even dressed as Santa for the occasion to surprise his young compatriot
Writing in a post on his Instagram account, Mika admitted: “WOW, Santa came early this year with the best gift I could dream of. I’m beyond proud to officially join the @redbull family as a Red Bull athlete!!
“Having this honor handed over by @sebastiankienle-my hero and inspiration when I first started triathlon-was a truly surreal moment that I’ll remember forever
“This dream-come-true opportunity to represent Red Bull means everything to me
I’m so grateful for the wings to take my journey to the next level!”
Noodt has displayed tantalising potential in his relatively short time as a pro since really bursting onto the scene in 2021
despite that time being hampered by injuries
His 2023 season was derailed early by a bike crash in April which resulted in a broken fibula
He was unable to race until the PTO Asian Open in Singapore
2024 showed more promise with sixth and fifth at T100 Singapore and San Francisco respectively, before Mika claimed victory at IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See. Then came a podium at T100 Ibiza – his standout result of the season
Hopes of a big finish to the year though were scuppered by nasty hip and shoulder injuries sustained when he was ‘taken down by a car’ during altitude training in Flagstaff
That saw him miss T100 Lake Las Vegas and T100 Dubai
© Photo credit: Gemeinfrei05/03/2025ShareThe pilot of a small aircraft registered in Luxembourg died in a fatal accident in the Austrian province of Salzburg on Tuesday
The single-engine aircraft crashed during the landing approach near the Zell am See airfield
Authorities said they believed there was just one person onboard the plane
The aircraft landed in a meadow without bursting into flames
The pilot involved in the accident is assumed to be a 59-year-old Italian national
As the police from Zell am See confirmed to the Luxemburger Wort this morning
He had been travelling from Bosnia to Luxembourg and wanted to make a stopover in Pinzgau
the public prosecutor’s office has commissioned an expert and ordered an autopsy of the pilot
(This article was first published on the Luxemburger Wort. Translation and editing by Tracy Heindrichs.)
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Public holiday 10 things to do on the 9 May Europe Day holidayVisit Robert Schuman’s house, head to the Mult-Culti festival in Bertrange or take a guided tour of the Europa Experience
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War Israel vows to step up Gaza fighting ahead of Trump’s Gulf tripSignificant escalation not expected until after Trump’s trip
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Advertiser contentThe Luxembourg Times BusinessRun is happening again on 18th September!On Thursday 18th September
with the starting gun of the 11th Luxembourg Times BusinessRun fired at the Coque at 7 pm
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