History of the Seehotel Bellevue in Zell am See-Kaprun

Exquisite pleasure since 1872

The Seehotel Bellevue is a place of enjoyment, that is how it always was and that is how it will always be. Since 1872, flanked on the shores of the Zeller lake by Thumersbach, is an eye-catcher, a destination for those looking to recuperate, connoisseurs and people who are searching for something special. It was high society, which formerly gave Bellevue its reputation. When strolling, people watching and being seen, at the weekly dance, where high society gave a welcome show. History was not always kind when it came to the Bellevue. In recent times, it fell quiet around the traditional 19th century house. Now we are re-awakening it with new life!

In the 19th century the Bellevue came into existence…

… Belle-Vue; Belle – the beautiful – the view. All together Bellevue – the beautiful view. In this style, this showpiece was erected on the shore of the Zeller lake. In 1872 the property rights were given to His Serene Highness, the reigning prince of Lichtenstein of the Tänzergut in Erlberg. The Bellevue lived, in 1896 the advertisement started with: “Cafe Restaurant Bellevue in Thumersbach situated on the lake. Veranda with amazing views. Guest rooms, excellent kitchen, good drinks, steam boat station.“ Location, view, fixtures, this promotion of style, splendour and best location still remains to this day.

1903, the fire…

“ … Today after 5 am a vast glow of fire lit up the sky through a thin veil of mist, which was covering the lake. Mr Jakob Leslin-Crowns’ hotel the “Bellevue” in Thumersbach was in flames...“ According to todays view, the fire which burnt down the vast majority of the Bellevue 1903 was set on purpose. Only, the lowest, brick construction and the ground floor remained. The wooden floors above were consumed by the flames. In 1905, the Bellevue was reconstructed, but this time from bricks and in a solid construction. In this new build, bathrooms with flushable toilets were even built in.

Turbulent years and a lot of experiences …

… the Bellevue made a pretence that it had always been there. As tourism was starting to grow in and around Zell am See in 1907, the Bellevue became a centre for many tourists. A worldwide known Pinzgauer regional exhibition brought a lot of business and publicity for the Hotel Bellevue. In 1931 the production of the new bathing facilities took place, as did the boat huts and a bank protection. These measures also brought additional attention to the visitors and tourists and are the reasoning behind the positioning of the Bellevue today.

Big renovations and new opening …

After many years of various modifications and extensions, it started to become much quieter around the Seehotel Bellevue. In 1991 the first big renovation of the hotel took place and during the following years, many a modification was made. And then the Bellevue was also opened for the winter and opened its gates for the influx of winter guests. In 2011, the planned extension of the modern apartment house Bellevue Residence generated further media attention. In 2014 the apartments became reality and have since then given a modern contrast to the magnificent building from 1872.