Kaprun, and the nearby medieval town of Zell am See, combined to form the Europa sports region in 1968. They market them selves as the ideal Austrian holiday resort, offering impressive scenery, winter ports throughout the year and a full range of outdoor activities.
Only an hour from Salzburg, the village depends on the Kitz stein horn as a central attraction. It is well known for its glacier and north-facing slopes, which guarantee skiing for at least 10 months of the year.
There are 55 funiculars, aerial trams, lifts and drag lifts. It also has a renowned ski school.
Easy access to the 10,000 ft mountain and its reliable snow means that other nearby resorts can market themselves as snowsure - confident that should the conditions in the relatively low Salzburg region disappoint, skiers can be bused to Kaprun. Snow guarantees are keenly sought out by many skiers, especially those travelling from abroad.
The mountain railway, which has been in service for decades, has been supplemented by a cable car service which runs from the same station at the foot of the mountain.
But it is the speed and capacity of the train which makes it the first choice for skiers.
Entry is covered by the area ski pass, which permits skiers to gain access via electronic turnstiles not unlike the London Underground.
Passenger totals are recorded automatically and only precise train-loads of skiers can progress at one time. There are two trains which ascend and descend simultaneously, passing each other midway.
They have no engines and are powered instead by a cable system.
Facilities on board are basic. Skiers can only huddle in the carriage which is built in a series of steps due to the steep incline of the line. It is normal for the carriage to be packed.
It takes about 10 minutes for the train to complete the 4 km ascent to the glacier. From there, there is easy access to the many ski lifts which radiate to all parts of the mountain.