The best lakes in Austria

Lake Neusiedl in Burgenland is the largest steppe lake in Central Europe and a paradise for nature and bird lovers. The lake is surrounded by reeds, meadows, and vineyards, offering numerous opportunities for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and kitesurfing. The UNESCO World Heritage site is also known for its wines and features many wineries that invite tasting. Cyclists can use the Lake Neusiedl bike path that runs around the lake. The region also offers cultural events and festivals.

Lake Wörthersee is the largest lake in Carinthia and is known for its turquoise waters and mild climate. The lake is a popular destination for beach vacationers and water sports enthusiasts. The towns of Klagenfurt and Velden offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including beaches, sailing and surfing schools, as well as boat rentals. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails around the lake, leading through the picturesque landscape. Lake Wörthersee is also known for its luxurious villas and hotels, which give it an exclusive charm.

The Weissensee in Carinthia is one of the cleanest and highest lakes for swimming in Austria. The lake is situated in a pristine natural landscape and is known for its clear, turquoise water. In summer, visitors can swim, paddle, and sail, while in winter, the lake transforms into a massive ice surface and becomes a paradise for ice skaters. The surrounding mountains offer numerous hiking and biking trails. The Weissensee is ideal for nature lovers and anyone seeking peace and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

The Achensee, also known as the Tyrolean Sea, is the largest lake in Tyrol and is nestled between the Karwendel Mountains and the Brandenberger Alps. The lake offers ideal conditions for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and kitesurfing. The surrounding mountains invite hiking and cycling tours. In winter, the region is a popular destination for cross-country skiers and ski tourers. The Achensee is known for its clear, turquoise water and the impressive mountain scenery that surrounds it.

The Wolfgangsee is located in the Salzkammergut and is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in Austria. The lake is surrounded by picturesque villages such as St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl. Visitors can engage in various water sports, take boat tours, or simply enjoy the stunning landscape. The Wolfgangsee is also a starting point for hikes up the Schafberg, from whose summit one can have a phenomenal view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The combination of crystal-clear water, historic villages, and alpine scenery makes the Wolfgangsee a popular travel destination.

Lake Zell is located near the town of Zell am See and is a popular destination for bathers and water sports enthusiasts. The lake offers a magnificent backdrop with the surrounding mountains and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Visitors can swim, sail, paddle, or take a boat tour. In winter, the area is a well-known ski resort. The promenade along the lake invites strolls and features numerous restaurants and cafés with stunning views of the lake. Lake Zell is ideal for families and nature lovers.

Lake Fuschl is located in the Salzkammergut region and is known for its crystal-clear water and idyllic surroundings. The lake offers ideal conditions for swimming, rowing, and stand-up paddling. A well-developed hiking trail runs around the lake, providing fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. Fuschl Castle on the shores of the lake is a luxurious hotel and a popular photo motif. Lake Fuschl is a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy peace and nature.

Lake Hallstatt is located in the Salzkammergut region and is famous for the picturesque village of Hallstatt, which lies on its shores. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and offers an impressive backdrop. Visitors can take boat tours, swim, or hike. The Salzwelten Hallstatt, a historic salt mine, and the Dachstein Giant Ice Caves are popular excursion destinations nearby. Lake Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfect destination for those seeking a combination of history, culture, and nature.

The Mondsee is located in the Salzkammergut and is known for its picturesque setting and clear water. The lake is a popular destination for bathers and water sports enthusiasts. The town of Mondsee offers numerous recreational opportunities and cultural attractions, including the impressive Basilica of St. Michael. There are many hiking and cycling paths around the lake that lead through the idyllic landscape. The Mondsee is an ideal destination for families and active vacationers.

Lake Traunsee, the deepest lake in Austria, is located in the Salzkammergut region and is surrounded by impressive mountains. The lake offers ideal conditions for sailing, diving, and other water sports. The town of Gmunden on the northern shore of the lake is known for its ceramic production and Schloss Ort, which is beautifully situated on a small island in the lake. The surrounding mountains offer numerous hiking and climbing opportunities. Lake Traunsee is a popular destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.