Kaprun, located in the Salzburg region, is one of the top destinations for outdoor activities in Austria. Known for the ski area at Kitzsteinhorn and the impressive high mountain reservoirs Mooserboden and waterfall floor, the place offers adventure and relaxation all year round. Whether skiing in winter, hiking in summer or exploring natural wonders such as the Sigmund-Thun-Klamm – Kaprun is a paradise for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
Kaprun is a popular holiday resort with around 3,000 residents, which has retained its original village character while remaining modern. The town center offers numerous restaurants, cafés, sports shops, and accommodations for every taste – from campsites to 4-star hotels. Thanks to its central location, many attractions are within walking distance, including the historic Kaprun CastleEvents such as the Harvest Festival, the annual classic car meeting or the “Night of Freeride” also make the place culturally interesting.
High above the center of Kaprun, the parish church of St. Margaretha sits enthroned on a striking rock. Its history dates back to the 12th century, but its current form was created in the 19th century in the neo-Romanesque-Neo-Gothic style. Particularly noteworthy are two late Gothic statues of saints from the 15th century and the historic Mauracher organ from 1885. The church is not only a place of worship, but also a popular photo opportunity and a venue for weddings and special events. From its forecourt, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Kaprun Valley.
A special highlight is the Kaprun CastleIt originally dates back to the 12th century and has been lovingly restored. Today, it serves as a venue for concerts, medieval festivals, weddings, and exhibitions. The castle sits perched on a rocky outcrop above the town and offers magnificent views of the Kaprun Valley. Guided tours are particularly popular with families and history buffs. Unfortunately, it is rarely open. Medieval events and themed tours take place regularly in spring and summer.
The Kitzsteinhorn, with its impressive height of 3,203 meters, is the only glacier ski area in the Salzburg region and offers skiing fun all year round. Whether you are an experienced skier or are on skis for the first time - the extensive ski area has slopes for all levels of difficulty. snowboarders and freestyler get their money's worth here, thanks to the well-equipped snow park.
In summer, the Kitzsteinhorn turns into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. The high alpine hiking trails offer fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Gipfelwelt 3000, a spectacular viewing point on the Kitzsteinhorn, is an absolute highlight for anyone who loves impressive panoramas.
Another highlight in Kaprun are the high mountain reservoirs, which are located above the town. The reservoirs Mooserboden and waterfall floor are surrounded by an impressive mountain backdrop and are a popular destination for hikes and exploration tours. Here you can learn more about the history of energy production in the region, as the reservoirs are used to produce electricity and are a technical masterpiece.
The Mooserboden reservoir is the higher of the two lakes at 2,036 meters. A guided tour through the power plants and over the dam wall gives you exciting insights into the world of hydropower and the challenges of construction in high alpine terrain.
The Sigmund-Thun-Klamm is another natural wonder that you shouldn't miss in Kaprun. The 320-meter-long gorge, through which the Kapruner Ache has carved its way over thousands of years, offers an impressive experience for hikers. The path leads over bridges and footbridges that reach deep into the gorge and offers spectacular views of the roaring water and the steep rock faces.
A visit to the gorge at night is particularly impressive, when it is atmospherically illuminated during guided tours. Access to the gorge is relatively easy and is also suitable for families with children.
In addition to the famous sights, the Kaprun region offers an extensive network of hiking and mountain bike trails. From a leisurely stroll along the Kapruner Ache to challenging tours in the high alpine areas around the Kitzsteinhorn - there is something for every taste.
A hike to the Maiskogel, a family-friendly mountain with panoramic views over the Zell Basin and the Hohe Tauern National Park. In summer, the Maiskogel is also popular with mountain bikers who appreciate the challenging routes and the bike park.
Many of these attractions are linked to the Kaprun map free or at least at a reduced price. Here you can find more information about Kaprun.