Zell am See in summer

[TimmyWimmyWoo]

In September I want to escape to Austria for 4 nights with the OH and thought about returning to Zell am See. I was there for 2 nights camping a month ago on my bike and have passed through several times and thought it might make a nice base for a walking/relaxing/kayaking holiday. Has anyone spent some time there?

I've always fancied staying in the Grand Hotel on the lake, but have read a few 'not worth the money' type of reviews. I think I'd be swayed by the views if need be! But does anyone here have any other hotel recommendations? We'd quite like a pool, nice views of the lake (I'd quite like to be on the West side, near the town of Zell) if that helps.

Another question – what is the hiking like? We're not serious walkers, but we're willing to strap on the boots for a day or two and wander around the mountains.

Any and all experiences/recommendations gratefully received!

[therams]

i've stayed at the hotel Zum Hirschen. very traditional austrian, so the rooms arent what you'd call luxury, but its central and the restaurant is good.


http://www.hotel-zum-hirschen.at/Home.6.0.html?&am...

Edited by therams on Monday 28th June 15:07

[huwp]

Have stayed in the Saltzurgerhof which is located in the middle of town. Would definately go back. Spa facilities were excellent.....although Mrs P never did accept the whole naked thing. Never bothered me!!

Have a look at their website. They have secure underground parking to. The Grossglockner Pass is only a short drive away as well if you get bored of walks.

Huw

[tobeee]

I've spent time there too, but camping (they do caravans and chalets too). Not far away, and they had tehir own little lake to swim in! Hiking is excellent all over, but I couldn't tell you where I hiked as we were with a mate who lives nearby and so didn't have to know! Sailing and windsurfing on the big lake, rock-climbing on the hills behind teh campsite, Mountain biking at Saalbach... always have a brilliant time there!

[TimmyWimmyWoo]

Thanks for the advice guys – keep it coming!

We'll be flying into Salzburg or Munich and getting the train down. I guess this means no Grossglocknerstraße (although I did it twice back in early June – lovely/scary road) but that's fine – meandering about on foot/bike/boat will do!

Something I've been meaning to ask some Austrian experts for a while – is the weather generally better in September than the rest of summer? I've been in June, July and August and have generally had more rainy days than when I went in September – it was a bit cooler but far more settled. Am I right, or was this just a coincidence?

[Bonne Route]

I stayed at the Mavida Balance Hotel for a couple of nights in summer 2007 - and it was agreat experience all round!

As well as the famous Grossglockner Pass, there are many other smaller, scenic passes nearby as well.