Winter Vacation in the Zillertal Without Skiing
Do you love snow-covered mountains but don't want to hit the slopes every day? There are plenty of options for a winter vacation without skiing in the area around Zell am Ziller.
Winter Hiking
Around Zell am Ziller
Those who prefer to explore the snow-covered landscape on foot will find various winter hiking trails around Zell am Ziller. A particularly accessible starting point is the Rosenalm. The valley station of the Rosenalmbahn is just a few minutes’ walk from the Ferienhotel Sonnenhof. From the mountain station, a winter hiking trail leads toward Fichtensee and back again. The loop is about 2.5 kilometers long and has an elevation gain of only about 64 meters. This makes it ideal for a leisurely winter outing away from the ski slopes.
There are also several options for walks and winter hikes in the valley around Zell am Ziller. Depending on snow conditions and the weather, we recommend checking the current condition of the trails before setting out.
Tobogganing
at Gerlosstein
One of the best-known alternatives to skiing is the toboggan run at Gerlosstein near Hainzenberg.
The natural toboggan run is about seven kilometers long. The Gerlossteinbahn cable car takes you comfortably up to the starting point, and the run then leads back down into the valley.
During the winter season, evening tobogganing is also offered on select evenings. On those nights, the track is illuminated and can be used well into the night.
Since tobogganing operations always depend on snow and weather conditions, it’s a good idea to check the current status of the toboggan run before heading out.
Cross-Country Skiing
in Zell am Ziller
Cross-country skiers will also find several options right in Zell am Ziller.
When snow conditions are sufficient, six free cross-country trails totaling about 16 kilometers are available. Depending on the trail, classic-style skiing, skating, or both techniques are possible.
The trails include, among others, the Arena Trail, the Museum Trail, the Unterberger Trail, the Zellbergeben Trail, the Bräufeld Trail, and the Bäckenfeld Trail.
Cross-country skiing is a great alternative, especially for guests who want to stay active in the winter but don’t plan to go downhill skiing every day.
Ice Skating
at Zell Am See Amusement Park
During the winter season, the Zell am Ziller amusement park features an artificial ice rink covering an area of approximately 1,800 square meters.
In addition to traditional ice skating, visitors can also play ice hockey and curling there. Ice skates and curling stones are available for rent on site.
The recreation park also features an indoor tennis facility with three courts and a bowling alley. This means that even when the winter weather isn’t ideal, there are alternatives to spending time outdoors in Zell am Ziller.
Winter Vacation
Without a Daily Ski Pass
A winter vacation in Zell am Ziller doesn’t have to be all about skiing.
Winter hiking on the Rosenalm, tobogganing at Gerlosstein, cross-country skiing in the valley, ice skating at the amusement park, or an afternoon in the wellness area of the Ferienhotel Sonnenhof can all be combined depending on the weather and your mood.
What can you do in the Zillertal in winter without skiing?
Activities include winter hiking, sledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating, indoor activities, and wellness.
Are there cross-country ski trails in Zell am Ziller?
Yes. When there is sufficient snow, there are six free cross-country ski trails available, totaling 16 kilometers.
Is the Sonnenhof a good choice for a winter vacation without skiing?
Yes. The indoor pool, spa, indoor Ninja Warrior Park, and central location offer plenty of activities away from the slopes.
