As the first snowfall hits the Kitzsteinhorn Kaprun Glacier Resort in October, Zell am See-Kaprun opens its doors for the 2022 ski season. Centred around the stand-out 3,000 metre peak of the same name, this resort is home to the world-class skiing – including the famous ‘Black Mamba’ slope (Piste No.14) which, with a gradient of 63 per cent is by far the steepest on the Kitzsteinhorn (those who complete it are gifted free stickers and temporary tattoos to celebrate their achievement).
A skier’s paradise
Across the mountain, glacial cross-country tracks snake and wind, offering glorious views over low-lying clouds, while four snow parks offering super-pipes, mogul slopes and ski trails welcome spontaneity and discovery.
From January to mid April, ICE CAMP presented by Audi is easily accessed via the pistes of the Kitzsteinhorn. A half-hour hike along the sign-posted ICE CAMP Trail from the Alpincenter uphill will lead you to a stunning sun deck where you can enjoy music, drinks and snacks, a cluster of impressive 12-metre igloos which host a series of incredible ice art installations and a photopoint where you can capture the experience for posterity.
While the region’s culinary highlight is the dizzying Gipfel – the highest restaurant in Salzburg at 3,029 metres. Here, the menu changes according to the regional and seasonal ingredients on offer – leading the way in Zell am See-Kaprun’s sustainable living ethos.
For all ages and abilities
From seasoned to beginner, skiers of all levels can enjoy Zell am See-Kaprun’s slopes
(Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus GmbH)
Meanwhile, family-friendly Schmittenhöhe mountain is renowned for its multiple ski options for all ages and abilities. Beginners and younger skiers can enjoy one of the Funslope XXL here, one of the longest funslopes in the world.
Blue and red runs dominate these craggy peaks – although more experienced visitors will be challenged by ‘Trass’, a black slope that begins at over 1,000 metres and descends steeply over two and half miles.
For something extra special, sign up for the Ski’n’Brunch experience, where early risers will be rewarded with a stunning sunrise over the deserted slopes, followed by a hearty brunch after your ski back down.
Going off-piste
It is also at Schmittenhöhe that you can expand your winter sport experiences – from winter yoga, snowshoe hiking and cross country skiing. Children can embark on an adventure with the region’s kindly dragon, Schmidolin,…
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