Austria’s Water World

In addition to beautiful hiking regions and unique national parks, you should definitely get to know Austria’s diverse water world. The many lakes, rivers, and waterfalls are spread all across Austria and give you the opportunity to visit at least one of these dreamlike water spectacles on almost every vacation.

Salzkammergut

The Salzkammergut is known for its wide variety of lakes—definitely not to be missed on your next trip. Visit Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee), one of Austria’s most famous lakes and always a popular choice. Equally interesting are Lake Mondsee, Lake Irrsee, and Lake Hallstatt (Hallstättersee). Besides the different lakes, the Salzkammergut also offers action-packed experiences on the Traun River or in the Strub Gorge (Strubklamm).

Wolfgangsee

Lake Wolfgang is one of the most famous lakes in Austria and is known as a border lake because it lies between Salzburg and Upper Austria. The deepest point of the lake is around 114 meters. Let the unique atmosphere inspire you as you look out over Lake Wolfgang while also admiring Mount Schafberg. Be sure to take the Schafberg Railway, which brings you to one of the most beautiful panoramas in the country and offers a one-of-a-kind view of nature. Of course, you can also go swimming in Lake Wolfgang—after all, it’s considered one of the warmest Alpine lakes. But there’s clearly much more to experience! Enjoy a boat trip across the lake and choose the particularly scenic route from St. Gilgen via Strobl to St. Wolfgang. Make use of the various lidos and try stand-up paddling, sailing, surfing, or kayaking. In addition, visibility of up to 10 meters promises unique diving experiences in Lake Wolfgang, so you should definitely rent diving gear (of course only if you have the necessary experience). Food lovers who enjoy fish will also find Lake Wolfgang appealing: pack your fishing gear and go in search of whitefish, char, or trout.

Mondsee

Lake Mondsee lies on the border between Upper Austria and Salzburg and has a depth of around 68 meters. Thanks to its comparatively warm water temperature, Mondsee is one of Austria’s warmest swimming lakes. That means you can, of course, go swimming there wonderfully. You’ll find a variety of lidos that offer gentle access to the water. You can also try sailing, (kite)surfing, or kayaking on the lake. And of course, don’t miss the chance to explore the lake more closely while stand-up paddling. Besides water experiences, there are also cycling paths around the lake, ideal for bike rides and walks.

Irrsee

Lake Irrsee is located in Upper Austria, north of Lake Mondsee, and has a maximum depth of 32 meters. Like Mondsee, Irrsee is great for swimming and is considered the warmest swimming lake in the Salzkammergut. On site you can find various lidos and natural bathing spots. Since Irrsee isn’t as well known as Wolfgangsee, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter fewer tourists here. Even though you can swim in Lake Irrsee, it is a protected nature area—so motorboats, for example, are not allowed. In addition to swimming, you can fish or try stand-up paddling.

Hallstättersee

Lake Hallstatt lies between the Dachstein massif and the Sarstein. It is set in a stunning landscape, making it a place you should definitely visit. A special highlight is the Hallstatt Skywalk, located 350 meters above the ground and offering breathtaking views. Besides the unique panorama, the lake provides a wide range of activities. For one, you can join boat trips and enjoy a different view of the scenery. For another, you can go diving in the lake and explore its underwater world. Of course, you can also go swimming in Lake Hallstatt.

Traun River

In addition to the idyllic lakes in Styria, you can also experience action-packed adventures. This includes rafting on the Traun River, one of the most important whitewater rivers in Upper Austria. The Traun is suitable for families as well as for more challenging trips, making rafting there very versatile.

Strubklamm

But it’s not only rafting that can be exciting—so can a guided canyoning tour. The Strubklamm is perfect for this and is the longest gorge in Austria. The canyon promises a proper dose of adrenaline, with jumps of up to 10 meters into the depths. The tours are suitable for both beginners and pros.

Water Experiences in the Salzkammergut

In the Salzkammergut you will definitely come across many activities you can enjoy. Try canyoning or go on an exciting rafting trip. Or leave the adventurous activities behind and go swimming in the various lakes, try stand-up paddling, go kayaking, or enjoy sailing.

Carinthian Lakes

The Carinthian lakes are very popular in Austria because they invite visitors to swim. The lakes in the federal state of Carinthia are among the warmest swimming lakes in all of Austria. In summer you can be sure you’ll be able to swim in pleasantly warm temperatures.

Wörthersee

Lake Wörthersee is 85 meters deep at its deepest point and is one of the warmest swimming lakes in Carinthia. In summer it can reach temperatures of up to 27°C. In addition to swimming fun at numerous lidos, you can enjoy a unique panorama. Lake Wörthersee lies between the Karawanks and the Gurktal Alps. You can also try stand-up paddling on the lake, go sailing and kayaking, or explore the lake by motorboat or on a scheduled boat cruise. You can also go diving in the lake and discover, among other things, wrecks.

Millstätter See

Lake Millstätt (Millstätter See) reaches an incredible 141 meters at its deepest point and is also one of the warmest swimming lakes in Carinthia. In summer it can reach a maximum temperature of 26°C and therefore has several lidos. Besides swimming, you can also sail, surf, row, or kayak on the lake. You can also improve your diving skills—its depth makes it perfect for experienced divers. Food lovers who enjoy a tasty fish on vacation are also taken care of: you can go fishing at Lake Millstätt as well.

Faaker See

Lake Faak (Faaker See) lies south of Villach at the foot of the Karawanks and therefore very close to the border with Slovenia. Its maximum depth is 30 meters. Visitors are especially impressed by the lake’s clean water and its striking turquoise-blue color. Of course, you can swim here. Besides swimming, you can rent rowboats and pedal boats, go kayaking, or sailing. You definitely won’t get bored here! A special highlight besides water activities is the European Bike Week. This event takes place every September and can bring together up to 70,000 bikers at Lake Faak.

Ossiacher See

Lake Ossiach (Ossiacher See) is located between Villach and Feldkirchen and has a maximum depth of about 52 meters. The lake is set in a unique panorama and combines water experiences with a wonderful view of the Gerlitzen Alpe. Naturally, you can swim in Lake Ossiach as well—there are countless lidos for that. As with the other lakes, you can also go sailing, kayaking, or try stand-up paddling. Motorboats are allowed too, so you can explore the lake on your own. The regular boat cruises on Lake Ossiach are also interesting. If you’d rather explore nature outside the water, you can use the many cycling paths.

Water Experiences in Carinthia

Overall, the Carinthian lakes are ideal for water experiences, and above all you can go swimming there very well. The various lidos and crystal-clear water promise an unforgettable swimming experience. Besides swimming, you can also enjoy other activities such as stand-up paddling or fishing. What’s more, the areas around the lakes are perfect for exploring nature on land. Hop on your bike and follow the many cycle paths.

Tyrol and Vorarlberg

In addition to the various lakes, you can also find a multitude of waterfalls in Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Particularly well known are the Stuibenfall, the Grawa Waterfall (a UNESCO natural monument), and the Krimml Waterfalls. You can also look forward to action-packed adventures on the Inn River or the Ötztaler Ache.

Achensee

Lake Achensee has a maximum depth of 133 meters and impresses visitors with its crystal-clear water. The water is so pure that you can even drink it. That makes a visit to Lake Achensee a wonderful stop on your hiking or cycling route. Achensee is the largest lake in Tyrol and is therefore also known as the “Tyrolean Sea.” Besides the option to go swimming, the lake is also well known for sailing, surfing, and kitesurfing. Thanks to the good underwater visibility, the lake is also suitable for diving. Boats also operate on the seemingly endless lake, giving you the chance to enjoy it in a different way. If you prefer to stay on land and simply take in the views, you’ll be happy to know that Lake Achensee is part of many hiking routes that start, for example, in Pertisau, Maurach, or Achenkirch.

Plansee

Lake Plansee is the second-largest lake in Tyrol and has a maximum depth of around 78 meters. Like Achensee, Plansee is known for its crystal-clear water that practically invites you to swim. In addition to an extensive swim, you can go diving at Plansee or try various water sports (sailing, surfing, rowing, stand-up paddling). You can also take a boat trip here and enjoy the unique view of the landscape.

Dreamy Waterfalls

The Stuibenfall in the Ötztal has a breathtaking drop of 159 meters, creating a truly unique spectacle. Besides the impressive view, action-packed adventures await you here as well. Step into the cool water and try canyoning or via ferrata tours.

The Grawa Waterfalls are also very interesting and definitely worth a visit. The water tumbles down several tiers from a height of 180 meters, creating a unique atmosphere. You can enjoy a wonderful view of this spectacle from the viewing platform at the foot of the waterfall.

The Krimml Waterfalls are part of the Hohe Tauern National Park and have a total height of 380 meters. Like the Grawa Waterfalls, the water cascades down several stages before reaching the bottom. The Krimml Waterfalls are among the highest waterfalls in Austria. They are fed by the Krimmler Ache, a glacier stream that supplies the waterfall with water.

Action-Packed Rivers

If you love adrenaline-filled adventures and enjoy diving into the underwater world, then Tyrol and Vorarlberg offer several rivers that combine both interests. The Inn River is known for its whitewater sports opportunities. Follow the river while rafting through the rapids, paddle across the cool water in a kayak or canoe (recommended for professionals only), or go surfing on the Inn wave.

The Ötztaler Ache is at least as well known for rafting. This 67 km-long mountain river combines narrow gorges with dangerously fast rapids. You can explore the Ötztaler Ache while rafting. In addition, you can venture into the risky experience of canyoning in the side gorges (Auerklamm or Hadergassenklamm) of the Ötztaler Ache.

Water Experiences in Tyrol and Vorarlberg

Tyrol and Vorarlberg offer both soothing tranquility and adrenaline-filled adventures! Be amazed by the beauty of the many lakes or take on your next action-packed experience as you follow the river rapids or try canyoning in the gorges.

Burgenland

Burgenland is known for its wine production and the many sunny days each year. This makes it the perfect place for your next vacation. And of course, water fun is guaranteed here too! Visit the picturesque Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedler See) or the tranquil Rechnitz Reservoir (Stausee Rechnitz) to get to know Burgenland better. Besides the lakes, you should definitely also take a trip to the wine-growing regions.

Neusiedler See

Lake Neusiedl is set in an idyllic landscape and impresses with its special charm. Especially for nature lovers, foodies, sports enthusiasts, and families, Neusiedl is one of the top vacation destinations. Let the sparkling water enchant you and experience a breathtaking atmosphere shaped by gentle hills, endless vineyards, and picturesque villages.

The lake is one of Austria’s very shallow bodies of water and has a maximum depth of about 1.8 meters. With its reed belt, salt meadows, and role as a bird protection area, Lake Neusiedl was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can swim here too, but only via piers and lidos due to the reeds. In addition, you can enjoy other water sports activities (surfing, stand-up paddling, or kitesurfing). If you want to explore the surrounding landscape, you should definitely visit the wine-growing areas or use the Neusiedl cycle path to discover nature.

Stausee Rechnitz

The Rechnitz Reservoir invites you to relax and offers a picturesque setting near the Southern Burgenland wine region. Unwind on the sunbathing lawns, the beach area, or right by the water on one of the piers. Naturally, you can also go swimming here or explore the lake while stand-up paddling. However, motorboats are not permitted on this lake. Anglers will also find what they’re looking for here: you can go fishing at the Rechnitz Reservoir and catch carp, pike, zander, and catfish. In addition, there are paths around the lake that are perfect for cycling or hiking.

Water Experiences in Burgenland

In Burgenland, you can especially get to know the beauty of nature better and relax by the lakes. Of course, in summer Lake Neusiedl and the Rechnitz Reservoir also give you the chance to cool off! Enjoy a wonderful break from everyday life in these places and immerse yourself in the idyllic natural surroundings.

Styria

If you travel to Styria, you’ll encounter breathtaking nature. Particularly well known are the Green Lake (Grüner See) in Tragöß, Toplitzsee, and Grundlsee. On your exploration tour, however, you should definitely also visit the Schladming-Dachstein region, where the so-called Dachstein massif is located. Spectacular views and unique experiences await you there—things you definitely won’t want to miss. In our guide you can learn more about the region Schladming-Dachstein.

Grüner See

The Green Lake is located in the Hochschwab area (Tragöß) and impresses visitors with its crystal-clear water that appears almost emerald green. What makes this lake special is how it forms: every year in spring, meltwater floods the meadows and trees, creating a unique scenery. Because of this special natural phenomenon, swimming is prohibited. Instead, you can take beautiful photos with the lake in the background and enjoy the view of this natural wonder.

Toplitzsee

You can explore Toplitzsee near Bad Aussee and think about the legendary tales that surround the lake. To this day, the rumor persists that gold from World War II is hidden in the depths of the lake. This makes a visit even more mysterious—Toplitzsee is surrounded by forest and therefore feels almost secretive. You can also be active on this mountain lake by rowing across the cool water in wooden boats. Motorboats are prohibited on Toplitzsee. The lake is also not suitable for swimming, so you can’t go searching for the alleged treasure (and its depth of over 100 meters would make that nearly impossible anyway).

Grundlsee

Lake Grundlsee is located in the Ausseerland and is the largest lake in Styria. It is therefore also known as the “Styrian Sea”. Like the Green Lake, Grundlsee fascinates visitors with its crystal-clear water that seems to invite you to enjoy experiences on the water. Enjoy a boat trip on the lake or take a refreshing dip in the cool water. You can also discover stand-up paddling on Lake Grundlsee. Even if you’re not a big water lover, the sight alone is worth it—framed by mountains. Grundlsee is also famous for its fish specialties, which food lovers should definitely try. Order delicious char or whitefish and let nature impress you.

Altausseer See

Lake Altaussee (Altausseer See) is often described as Austria’s most beautiful mountain lake and is located in the Liezen district. This photogenic lake lies amid the mountain scenery of the Totes Gebirge, creating a unique backdrop. Let this view enchant you and don’t forget to capture your memories in pictures. You can also go swimming here or discover kayaking for yourself.

Erlaufsee

Lake Erlauf (Erlaufsee) lies west of Mariazell, right between the state borders of Styria and Lower Austria. This mountain lake is also described as crystal clear and invites visitors to cool off in the water. In addition to a relaxed swim, you can also go diving here. At its deepest point, Lake Erlauf reaches 38 meters, while the average depth is around 19 meters. You can find diving schools directly at the lake or rent diving equipment in nearby Mariazell.

Leopoldsteiner See

Lake Leopoldstein (Leopoldsteiner See) is located near Eisenerz and is surrounded by dense forests, giving this mountain lake a romantic atmosphere. It is especially popular in summer because you can also go swimming there. You can also enjoy the view of the lake while having a tasty meal at the small inns along the shore. What also makes Leopoldsteiner See unique is the legend surrounding it: supposedly a water spirit guards the treasure of the Erzberg here.

Water Experiences in Styria

In Styria, besides swimming, you can also enjoy other water sports. Take in the panorama of the surrounding mountains while stand-up paddling (Grundlsee), or dive into the depths of crystal-clear water with professional diving equipment (Erlaufsee). You can also enjoy a boat trip (Grundlsee), glide across the water in a wooden boat (Toplitzsee), or explore the lake yourself by kayak (Altausseer See).

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip!

We wish you a pleasant trip to Austria and lots of fun on your exploration tour of the different lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Don’t forget to inform yourself about the country’s toll regulations. You can find more information about tolls in our guide. You’re also welcome to use our route planner to plan your journey more easily and to have the relevant toll products displayed. If you have any questions, we’ll be happy to help. Contact us via email.