Easy Zell for a winter break

In the Austrian Alps, Zell Am See is a special winter retreat, loved by skiers of all levels and Sound of Music fans, says JEREMY ARMSTRONG

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Zell am See must surely be one of the most scenic ski resorts in Europe, if not the world. The various runs down the mountain side take place against a backdrop of the beautiful lake tucked away amid the Austrian alps.

The pine trees and homes dotted around the landscape are reflected in the pale blue waters which give the resort its name.

If you are there later in the season, and get the sunshine, it is just a beautiful place to ski. But Zell am See and its neighbouring resort of Kaprun are so stunning that they have become an all-year-round destination.

Premier League teams (including Newcastle United) have set up preseason training camps nearby in the summer. In winter, it is a haven for the skiers from here, all corners of Austria and Germany, Europe and beyond.

It also gets a visitor hit from Sound of Music tourism - the real-life Von Trapp family lived here for a while.

The impressive mountain range of Tauern National Park is a great spot for any holiday, winter or summer, thanks to its breathtaking scenery, walks and activities.

We were based in Kaprun, six miles from Zell-am-See, in the Soul Sisters hotel and spa.