ZELL AM SEE GOLF HOTELS
The best hotels in Zell am See for Austrian golfbreaks.
Sporthotel Alpin**** - Zell am See
At the very foot of the slopes that descend into Zell am See, the Sporthotel Alpin looks out across the town to the lake and mountains beyond. A long-standing, very traditional hotel from the huge wood-burning stove in Reception to the traditionally uniformed, incredibly welcoming and helpful, staff.
Owned for generations by the Schwaniger family, the current inheritant - Elisabeth - is a fanatical and energetic organiser: fiercely proud of her hotel, town and local Golf Club, she will do everything in her power to ensure that you enjoy the unique atmosphere of golf in Austria. During the week there is often an in-house competition, which you are more than welcome to compete in - if you do, you'll have a blast!
The hotel itself has nicely sized bedrooms with sitting areas, mini-bars and most have balconies to enjoy the afternoon sunshine. Bathrooms are fully modernised and spick-and-span: as one would expect in Austria!
There is a large indoor pool, with sauna, solarium, and steam rooms too; outside there is a sun deck too for some Alpine relaxation.
The Sporthotel no longer has a restaurant as with so many superb restaurants in Zell am See most guests want to dine out! We shall provide a few recommendations for your along with your travel documents to get you started - including a few hidden up in the hills...
The Grand Hotel****
Surrounded by water on three sides, the Grand Hotel juts out into the Zeller See and is the dominant landmark as you approach Zell am See. The single track railway that runs along the edge of the lake separates the hotel slightly from the town - adding to the feeling of splendid isolation.
The Grand Hotel feels rich in Victoriana as you sip your afternoon tea in the gardens by the lake, but the bedrooms are surprisingly furnished with light woods in a more modern style and the indoor pool and Spa is thoroughly up to date. There is also a private beach with pedalos and rowboats to hire should you fancy a waterborne jaunt. The Grand Hotel prides itself on its reputation and you will find the service very correct, whether in the ornate bar or the restaurants.
Landhotel Kirchenwirt**** - Leogang
A hotel richer in Austrian charm is unimaginable and finer Austrian cuisine than at the Kirchenwirt has yet to be discovered.
Standing by the church in the sleepy hamlet of Leogang since 1623, Kirchenwirt is one of the oldest hotels in Austria. As you heave open the thick oaken door the cavernous entrance hall that greets you is unlike anything you will have seen before. The halls and bedrooms on the two floors above are all hewn from massive pine.
In Leogang you can lose yourself in the Austrian countryside church and cow bells the only intrusion. Run by a young couple Barbara and Wolfgang (daughter of the creators of the legend - Hannes and Elisabeth) will take very good care of you in the Kirchenwirt. Their chef is truly excellent and renowned throughout Austria. There is a daily menu in addition to the extensive a la carte menu, making dining in every evening a delight. N.B. The half-board supplement is exceptional value.
Should you wish to go out for the evening, the nearby town of Saalfelden is quite large, filled with shops and restaurants and only ten minutes by car.
