Kaprun holidays

How to reach Kaprun

• Flight time: Flights to Salzburg, the nearest airport to Kaprun, take about 2 hours from London and other major UK airports.

• Transfer time: From Salzburg Airport, you can either take a direct bus or a train then a bus to Kaprun. The journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes. Renting a car or booking a private transfer takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.

• Price: The bus from Salzburg to Kaprun costs approximately €15, while a train ticket is around €20. Car rentals start at about €40 per day, and a taxi or private transfer can cost between €150 and €200.

Weather and best time to visit Kaprun

Choosing the best time for holidays to Kaprun depends on what activities you are interested in. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help:

• December to February: Winter is peak season in Kaprun, especially for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Average temperatures range from -5 to 5°C, with plenty of snowfall.

• March to May: Spring offers a quieter period with fewer tourists. Average temperatures rise from 5 to 15°C, with moderate rainfall. This season is ideal for hiking as the snow melts and the flowers bloom.

• June to August: Summer is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and swimming. Temperatures range from 15 to 25°C, with occasional rain showers. This is also a great time for festivals and cultural events.

• September to November: Autumn brings a peaceful and scenic atmosphere with temperatures dropping from 15 to 5°C. The colourful foliage creates a stunning backdrop for walking and hiking. Rainfall can be higher than in summer, but there are still plenty of sunny days.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language. English is widely understood in tourist areas, but learning a few basic German phrases is appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: Austrians appreciate punctuality and politeness. Greeting people with a friendly Grüss Gott (hello) and saying danke (thank you) are appreciated.

• Health and safety: Kaprun is safe, but travel insurance is recommended, especially for winter sports. Take a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to access healthcare.

• Currency: Austria uses the euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small purchases is a good idea.

• Getting around: Kaprun has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trains. A single bus ticket costs around €3. For longer stays, consider a regional travel pass for unlimited travel.

• Electricity and plug types: Austria's supply is 230V and uses the standard European plug types C and F with two round pins. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a valid passport but do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days.

Best things to do in Kaprun

Kaprun is a delightful alpine village that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Whether you're into outdoor activities, historic sites or spectacular scenic views, Kaprun has something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of the top things to do on Kaprun holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Kitzsteinhorn Glacier: This iconic peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the highest mountains in Austria and Hohe Tauern National Park from the Gipfelwelt 3000 observation deck. In summer, there's a snow beach, an ice bar and glacier skiing, making it a unique spot to visit year-round. The journey there involves a series of cable cars, making it an adventure in itself.

• Maiskogel Family Mountain: Another great spot for panoramic views, the Maiskogelbahn cable car takes you up the mountain to enjoy the stunning landscapes and various family-friendly activities such as a playground, a park and several rides.

The best districts

• Kaprun Village Centre: Wandering through the quiet village of Kaprun, you'll find a mix of attractive traditional Austrian architecture, cosy cafés and local heritage. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy some leisurely shopping.

• Zell am See: Just a short drive away and twinned with Kaprun, Zell am See is a picturesque town nestled between a lake and the mountains. The old town is particularly charming, with narrow streets and historic buildings, including the 11th-century St. Hippolyte's Church and the lakeside Grand Hotel.

Historic monuments

• Kaprun Castle: This medieval castle is one of the top historical attractions in the area. It offers guided tours that delve into the region's and the castle’s history. It also hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

• Kaprun Museum: The town’s museum is in a 300-year-old listed building, which is worth a visit for the traditional wooden structure alone. Exhibits detail the local history, including farming life and how tourism developed.

Day trips in the area

• Sigmund Thun Klamm: This impressive gorge offers wooden walking paths through dramatic rock formations, past waterfalls, rapids and vegetation. It’s a great way to explore the natural beauty and geological history of Kaprun.

• Grossglockner High Alpine Road: This scenic drive takes you through the Hohe Tauern National Park to Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner (3,798m). The road itself is an engineering marvel, offering stunning views and numerous stopping points for photos and short walks.

• Salzburg: About a 90-minute drive from Kaprun, Salzburg is a beautiful city known for its baroque architecture and as the birthplace of Mozart. Highlights include the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and the charming old town. Discover the best deals on holidays to Salzburg.

Activities for families in Kaprun

Kaprun is an ideal destination for families, with a wide range of activities for all ages. From outdoor adventures to educational experiences, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

• Swimming pools: At Hinkelsteinbad Piesendorf, Tauern Spa and the lake or lidos at Zell am See, plenty of indoor and outdoor pools, water slides and dedicated children's areas make swimming a great summer activity.

• Playgrounds: The Maiskogel Family Mountain has several play areas, including a large adventure playground with climbing frames, slides and obstacle courses.

• Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer: This thrilling ride down Maiskogel Mountain is a hit with both kids and adults. The coaster runs year-round and offers exciting descents through beautiful alpine scenery.

• Hiking and nature trails: The extensive trails around Kaprun suit all ages and fitness levels. Try the Sigmund-Thun Gorge with its scenic walkways and waterfalls, which are perfect for a family hike.

Free things to do in Kaprun

Kaprun offers plenty of activities that won’t cost you a penny. Here are some top recommendations:

• Free events: Year-round, Kaprun hosts musical performances, festivals for food and culture, activities for kids and sporting events. Keep an eye out for the Kaprun Castle Festival, a highlight of the summer.

• Hiking trails: The Kaprun region boasts numerous well-marked trails that are free to access. Popular routes include the trails around the Maiskogel and Kitzsteinhorn, which offer stunning views and plenty of fresh mountain air.

Wellness in Kaprun

• Spas and thermal baths: The Tauern Spa is a top destination for leisure and wellness in Kaprun. This modern facility features numerous indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and relaxation areas. The panoramic views of the Alps add to the experience.

• Traditional body care: Many hotels in Kaprun, such as the Hotel Kaprunerhof, offer massages and treatments perfect for soothing tired muscles after a tough day skiing or hiking.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking and walking trails: The region around Kaprun boasts numerous well-marked trails. Popular routes include the trails around the Maiskogel and the Kitzsteinhorn, offering stunning views and plenty of fresh air.

• Cycling and mountain biking: Kaprun is an excellent base for cycling. There are various cycle paths and mountain bike trails for all skill levels, from leisurely rides around Lake Zell to challenging downhill runs from the mountains.

• Skiing and snowboarding: In winter, Kaprun is a hub for winter sports. The Maiskogel and Schmittenhöhe provide excellent skiing opportunities for all levels, while the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier offers year-round skiing with over 41km of pistes.

• Paragliding: For an exhilarating experience, try paragliding over the Tyrolean Alps. Tandem flights are available for beginners, providing a unique way to take in the stunning landscape from above.

• Watersports: In the warmer months, head to Lake Zell for swimming, boating and stand-up paddleboarding. The clear waters and surrounding mountains make it a perfect spot for water-based activities.

• Nature parks: Explore the region’s natural beauty in the Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria's largest. This park offers diverse wildlife, bird-watching opportunities, numerous hiking trails and nature walks.

Local dishes in Kaprun

Kaprun is a delightful place to explore Austrian cuisine, known for its hearty, comforting dishes and delicious desserts. Here’s a taste of what you can expect during your holidays to Kaprun:

Some typical dishes

• Wienerschnitzel: Though it originated in Vienna, this breaded and fried veal (or pork) cutlet is now a favourite across Austria.

• Käsespätzle: This is the Austrian version of macaroni cheese. It features soft egg noodles mixed with melted cheese and topped with crispy onions – a hearty and comforting dish, perfect after a day’s skiing or hiking.

• Tiroler Gröstl: A traditional dish from the Tyrol region, it’s a rustic mix of potatoes, beef or pork and onions, all fried together and often topped with a fried egg.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A famous Austrian pastry filled with apples, raisins and cinnamon. It’s often served warm with cream or ice cream.

• Sachertorte: A dense chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and covered in a glossy chocolate glaze.

• Kaiserschmarrn: Fluffy, shredded pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar and often accompanied by a fruit compote.

Local drinks

• Schnapps: A traditional fruit brandy made from various local fruits such as apricots, pears and plums.

• Beer: The region around Kaprun produces excellent beers, with Märzen and Helles being particularly popular. Many local breweries offer tours and tastings.

• Glühwein: Especially popular during the winter months, this warm, spiced wine is perfect for sipping on cold evenings after a day on the slopes.

Sports in Kaprun

Kaprun is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. Whether you’re visiting in the snowy winter months or the sunny summer season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Winter Sports

Skiing and Snowboarding Kaprun is part of the Zell am See-Kaprun ski area, which includes the famous Kitzsteinhorn glacier. The glacier offers excellent skiing conditions from autumn through to early summer, with a variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. The Schmittenhöhe and the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn are also part of this extensive ski area, providing more than 400 kilometres of pistes accessible with the Ski ALPIN CARD.

Cross-Country Skiing The region boasts well-maintained cross-country skiing trails that wind through beautiful alpine landscapes. These trails are suitable for both classic and skate skiing, offering something for every type of cross-country skier.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking For those who prefer exploring on foot, Kaprun offers numerous winter hiking and snowshoeing trails. The Maiskogel Panorama Trail and the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Trail provide stunning views and a peaceful way to experience the winter wonderland.

Ice Skating and Ice Stock Sport Ice skating is a popular activity in Kaprun, with several ice rinks available for both beginners and experienced skaters. Additionally, ice stock sport, similar to curling, is a fun and sociable winter sport that visitors can enjoy.

Summer Sports

Hiking and Trekking During the summer, Kaprun transforms into a hiking paradise with trails that range from easy walks to challenging alpine treks. The region offers more than 400 kilometres of marked trails, including the stunning high-altitude routes on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.

Mountain Biking Kaprun is also a hotspot for mountain biking, featuring numerous trails and bike parks. Whether you prefer leisurely rides through scenic valleys or adrenaline-pumping downhill trails, you’ll find plenty of options here.

Water Sports The nearby Lake Zell offers a variety of water sports, including swimming, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake's clear waters and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for summer activities.

Golf For golf enthusiasts, the Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Club offers two 18-hole championship courses set against the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a round of golf in a breathtaking setting.

Kaprun is an ideal destination for sports lovers, offering an array of activities throughout the year. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and biking in the summer, there’s always something to keep you active and engaged in this beautiful alpine region. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a casual enthusiast, Kaprun provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable sports holiday.