Water in Zell am See-Kaprun Water quality, bodies of water & more

Zell am See-Kaprun has plenty of water: rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands shape the landscape. In Zell am See-Kaprun, with its unique combination of glacier, mountain, and lake, water is an essential element. It comes as fresh drinking water from the tap, and is also crucial for power generation and ensures snow-covered pistes in winter. Furthermore, it is essential for the survival of plants and animals.

High-quality drinking water

Of Austria’s drinking water, 50% comes from groundwater and 50% from spring water. In Zell am See-Kaprun, it is sourced from five mountain springs and undergoes continuous testing to ensure its quality.

The spring in Prielau is fed by an artesian well – a well below the groundwater level. From there, the water flows into a treatment plant where its high iron content is reduced. With this, the water is under pressure and rises to the surface on its own, without the use of pumps.

Therefore, you can drink the tap water without any concerns. The low hardness of the water results in minimal limescale buildup and allows aromas to develop fully. This makes coffee, tea, and soft drinks taste particularly intense. 

You can refill your reusable drinking water bottle at various drinking water fountains in Zell am See-Kaprun. Here, you can find an overview.

The low phosphorus levels in Lake Zell have a positive impact on the lake's ecosystem and the fish that live there. This results in a great diversity of species:

• eel
• chub
• barbel
• perch
• bream
• pike
• carp
• bleak
• whitefish
• roach
• tench
• brown trout
• lake char
• sheatfish, catfish
• zander

Every autumn, Lake Zell is cleaned and cleared of debris – a valuable contribution to protecting the lake.

Furthermore, according to the EU Bathing Water Directive, the lake has consistently maintained excellent bathing water quality for years.

Water as an important factor for mountain railways 

Water is essential – even in the mountains. It shapes the experience in winter as well as in summer. The mountain railways Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn are increasingly focusing on sustainable concepts to use resources responsibly and maintain the unique natural environment for the long term. In this way, the fascination of the mountains will be preserved for future generations.

Power generation from water

In Kaprun, hydropower is used to generate electricity. Surrounded by the Hohe Tauern mountain range, the two high mountain reservoirs of Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden can store up to 170 million cubic metres of water. During the summer months, the reservoirs are a popular destination at an altitude of 2,036 metres, attracting visitors with guided tours of the dam and serving as a starting point for hiking tours.

Klammsee reservoir

The Kaprun Klammsee reservoir is a recreational area and a popular destination for day trips in Zell am See-Kaprun. The small reservoir is fed by the glacial meltwater of the Kapruner Ache, which results in low water temperatures year-round.

Along the circular hiking trail around the Klammsee reservoir, you'll find numerous benches where you can enjoy nature. Information boards provide details about the local flora and fauna. 

The Klammsee reservoir is dammed at its northern end by a 19-metre-high gravity dam. With a storage capacity of approximately 200,000 cubic metres, it serves the local electricity needs as well as the Kaprun pumped-storage power plants.

The Sigmund Thun Gorge, in combination with the Klammsee reservoir, is a particularly fascinating destination for an excursion.

Activities in, on and around water in Zell am See-Kaprun

In Zell am See-Kaprun, water can be experienced in many different ways: from the crystal-clear Lake Zell, which invites to relaxation and being active all year round, to the impressive high mountain reservoirs. Below you will find a selection of water-themed excursion destinations and activities.