Austria's Water World
Alongside beautiful hiking areas and unique national parks, you should definitely get to know Austria's diverse water world. The various lakes, rivers and waterfalls are spread throughout Austria and give you the opportunity to visit at least one of these fabulous water spectacles on almost every trip.
Salzkammergut
The Salzkammergut is known for its diverse lakes, which you shouldn't miss on your next trip. Visit Lake Wolfgang, which is one of the most famous lakes in Austria and is always popular. Equally interesting are Lake Mondsee, Lake Irrsee and Lake Hallstatt. Besides the various lakes, the Salzkammergut also offers action-packed experiences on the Traun River or in the Strubklamm.
Lake Wolfgang
Lake Wolfgang is one of the most famous lakes in Austria and is referred to as a so-called border lake, as it is located between Salzburg and Upper Austria. The deepest point of the lake is about 114 metres. Let yourself be impressed by the unique atmosphere as you look out over Lake Wolfgang while also taking in the Schafberg. Also make use of the Schafberg Railway, which will take you to one of the most beautiful panoramas in the country and give you a unique view of nature. Of course, you can also go swimming in Lake Wolfgang. After all, Lake Wolfgang is rightly considered one of the warmest alpine lakes. However, there is definitely much more to experience here! Enjoy a boat trip across the lake and choose the particularly beautiful route from St. Gilgen via Strobl to St. Wolfgang. Make use of the various lidos and try your hand at stand-up paddling, sailing, surfing or kayaking. In addition, visibility of up to 10 metres promises unique diving experiences in Lake Wolfgang, so you should definitely borrow diving equipment (of course, only if you have the appropriate experience). Lake Wolfgang is also not without interest for the gourmets among you who enjoy eating fish. Pack your fishing gear and go in search of whitefish, char or trout.
Lake Mondsee
Lake Mondsee is located on the border between Upper Austria and Salzburg and has a depth of about 68 metres. Thanks to its relatively warm water temperature, Lake Mondsee is one of Austria's warmest bathing lakes. This means you can of course go swimming wonderfully there. You can discover various lidos that let you ease gently into the water. You can also try sailing, (kite)surfing or kayaking on the lake. Of course, you shouldn't miss the chance to explore the lake in more detail while stand-up paddling. Besides the experiences in the water world, there are also cycle paths around the lake that are wonderful for cycling as well as for walks.
Lake Irrsee
Lake Irrsee is located in Upper Austria, north of Lake Mondsee, and has a maximum depth of 32 metres. Just like Lake Mondsee, Lake Irrsee is very well suited for swimming and is considered the warmest bathing lake in the Salzkammergut. On site you can find various lidos and natural bathing spots. Since Lake Irrsee is not as well known as Lake Wolfgang, there is a good chance that you will not encounter as many tourists here. Even though you can swim in Lake Irrsee, it is under nature protection. This means, for example, that motorboats are not allowed. Besides swimming, you can go fishing there or try stand-up paddling.
Lake Hallstatt
Lake Hallstatt is located between the Dachstein massif and the Sarstein. This sets it within a beautiful landscape and makes the lake a place you should definitely visit. A special highlight is the Hallstatt Skywalk, which is located at a height of 350 metres and offers you a breathtaking view. Besides the unique panorama, the lake offers you a great variety of activities. On the one hand, you can take part in boat trips and enjoy yet another view of the scenery. On the other hand, you can go wonderful diving in this lake and explore the underwater world. Of course, you can also go swimming in Lake Hallstatt.
Traun River
Besides the idyllic lakes in Styria, you can also experience action-packed adventures. These include rafting on the Traun River, one of the most important whitewater rivers in Upper Austria. The Traun River is suitable both for families and for more demanding trips, so rafting can be very varied here.
Strubklamm
But it's not just rafting that can be full of adventure – so can a guided canyoning tour. The Strubklamm, Austria's longest gorge, is wonderfully suited for this. The gorge promises you a decent dose of adrenaline, with jumps of up to 10 m in depth. The tours are suitable for both beginners and professionals.
Water experiences in the Salzkammergut
In the Salzkammergut you will definitely come across a great many activities you can pursue. Try canyoning or set off on an adventurous rafting trip. Likewise, you can leave the adventurous experiences behind and go swimming in the various lakes, try stand-up paddling, go kayaking or sailing.
Carinthian Lakes
The Carinthian lakes are very popular in Austria, as they invite their visitors to go swimming. The lakes in the state of Carinthia are among the warmest bathing lakes in the whole of Austria. Here you can be sure that you can go swimming in the summer at pleasant temperatures.
Lake Wörthersee
The Wörthersee is 85 metres deep at its deepest point and is one of the warmest bathing lakes in the state of Carinthia. In summer, the lake can reach a temperature of up to 27 degrees Celsius. Besides the swimming fun at numerous lidos, you can enjoy a unique panorama. The Wörthersee is located 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 with a motorboat or during a boat trip. You can also go diving in the lake and, among other things, discover shipwrecks there.
Lake Millstatt
The Millstätter See reaches an incredible 141 metres at its deepest point and is likewise one of the warmest bathing lakes in the state of Carinthia. In summer, the lake can reach a maximum temperature of 26 degrees Celsius and therefore also has several lidos. Besides swimming, you can also sail, surf, row or kayak on the lake. You can also improve your diving skills, at a depth that is perfectly suited for professionals. There is also something for the gourmets among you who enjoy a delicious fish dish while on holiday. You can also go fishing at Lake Millstatt.
Lake Faak
The Faaker See is located south of Villach, at the foot of the Karawanks, and is thus in the immediate vicinity of the border with Slovenia. The maximum depth is 30 metres. Visitors to the lake are particularly impressed by its clean water and the accompanying turquoise-blue colour. Of course, you can go swimming in this lake. Besides swimming, you can rent rowing boats and pedal boats, go kayaking or sailing. You definitely won't get bored at this place! A special highlight besides the activities in the water is the European Bike Week. This event always takes place in September and brings together up to 70,000 bikers at Lake Faak.
Lake Ossiach
The Ossiacher See is located between Villach and Feldkirchen and has a maximum depth of about 52 metres. The lake fits into a unique panorama and combines water experiences with a wonderful view of the Gerlitzen Alpe. Of course, you can also go swimming in Lake Ossiach! Countless lidos give you the opportunity to do so. Just as in the other lakes, you can also go sailing, kayaking or try stand-up paddling. Motorboats are also allowed, so you can explore Lake Ossiach on your own as well. The boat trips that regularly take place on Lake Ossiach are also interesting. If you would rather explore nature outside the water, you can use the many cycle paths.
Water experiences in Carinthia
Generally speaking, the Carinthian lakes are wonderfully suited for water experiences, and above all you can go swimming well in the lakes. The various lidos and the crystal-clear water promise you an unforgettable swimming experience. Besides swimming, you can also pursue other activities such as stand-up paddling or fishing. Furthermore, the surroundings of the lakes are also suitable for exploring nature on land. Hop on your bike and follow the various cycle paths.
Tyrol and Vorarlberg
Besides the various lakes, you can also find a large number of waterfalls in Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Particularly well known are the Stuibenfall, the Grawa Waterfall (a UNESCO natural monument) and the Krimml Waterfalls. In Tyrol and Vorarlberg, action-packed adventures also await you on the Inn River or on the Ötztaler Ache.
Lake Achensee
The Achensee has a maximum depth of 133 metres and impresses its visitors with its crystal-clear water. The water of the Achensee is so pure that you can even drink it. This makes a visit to the Achensee wonderfully suited as a stop on your hiking or cycling route. The Achensee is considered the largest lake in Tyrol and is therefore also referred to as the "Tyrolean Sea". Besides the opportunity to go swimming in the lake, the lake is also very well known for sailing, surfing or kitesurfing. Thanks to the good visibility underwater, the lake is also suitable for diving. Ships also operate on the seemingly endless lake, giving you the chance to enjoy the lake in yet another way. If you would rather stay on land and simply enjoy the view, you will be pleased to know that the Achensee is part of many hiking routes, which start, for example, in Pertisau, Maurach or Achenkirch.
Lake Plansee
The Plansee is the second-largest lake in Tyrol and has a maximum depth of about 78 metres. Just like the Achensee, the Plansee is known for its crystal-clear water, which practically invites you to go swimming. Besides an extensive swim, you can go diving in the Plansee or try various water sports (sailing, surfing, rowing, stand-up paddling). There is also the option of taking part in a boat trip on the Plansee and enjoying the unique view of the landscape.
Fabulous waterfalls
The Stuibenfall in the Ötztal has a breathtaking drop height of 159 m, creating a unique spectacle. Besides the unique view of the Stuibenfall, action-packed adventures await you at this location. Venture into the cool waters and try canyoning or via ferrata tours.
The Grawa Waterfalls are also very interesting and definitely worth a visit. The waterfalls cascade over several tiers from a height of 180 metres, creating a unique atmosphere. You can get a wonderful view of this spectacle from the viewing platform located at the foot of the waterfall.
The Krimml Waterfalls are part of the Hohe Tauern National Park and have a total height of 380 metres. Just like the Grawa Waterfalls, the water flows over various tiers before reaching the bottom. The Krimml Waterfalls are among the highest waterfalls in Austria. The waterfall is fed by the Krimmler Ache, a glacial 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 have quite a few rivers to offer that combine these two areas of interest. The Inn River is known for its whitewater sports opportunities. Follow this river rafting over the rapids, paddle your kayak or canoe across the cool waters (though this is only recommended for professionals), or go surfing on the Inn wave.
The Ötztaler Ache is at least as well known for rafting. The 67 km long mountain river combines narrow gorges with dangerously fast rapids. You can explore the Ötztaler Ache while rafting. You can also 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 you calming idyll and adrenaline-filled adventure at the same time! Let yourself be impressed by the beauty of the various lakes, or venture into your next action-packed experience as you follow the rapids of the rivers or try canyoning in the gorges.
Burgenland
Burgenland is known for its wine growing and the many sunny days of the year. This makes it the perfect place for your next holiday. Of course, water fun is guaranteed here too! Visit the picturesque Lake Neusiedl or the tranquil Rechnitz Reservoir to get to know Burgenland better. Besides the various lakes, you should also definitely make a detour to the wine-growing regions.
Lake Neusiedl
Lake Neusiedl fits into an idyllic setting that impresses with its special charm. The Neusiedler See is one of the top holiday destinations, especially for nature lovers, gourmets, sports enthusiasts and families. Let yourself be enchanted by the glittering water and behold a breathtaking atmosphere, formed by gentle hills, endless vineyards and picturesque villages.
The lake is one of the shallowest bodies of water in Austria and has a maximum depth of about 1.8 metres. Thanks to its reed belts, salt meadows and its function as a bird sanctuary, Lake Neusiedl has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also go swimming in this lake, though only via jetties and lake baths due to the reeds present. In addition, you can pursue other water sports activities (surfing, stand-up paddling or kitesurfing). If you would like to explore the surrounding landscape, you should definitely pay a visit to the wine-growing regions or use the Neusiedl cycle path to explore nature.
Rechnitz Reservoir
The Rechnitz Reservoir invites you to relax and offers you a picturesque setting near the South Burgenland wine-growing region. Relax on the sunbathing lawns, at the beach area, or right by the water at one of the jetties. Of course, you can also go swimming here wonderfully or explore the lake while stand-up paddling. However, motorboats are not allowed on this lake. Besides the experiences in the water, anglers will also find what they're looking for here. At the Rechnitz Reservoir you can go fishing wonderfully and catch carp, pike, zander and catfish. There are also paths around the lake that you can use wonderfully for cycling or hiking.
Water experiences in Burgenland
In Burgenland, you can above all get to know the beauty of nature better and relax by the lakes. Of course, Lake Neusiedl and the Rechnitz Reservoir also offer you the opportunity to cool off in summer! So enjoy a wonderful break from everyday life at these places and immerse yourself in the idyllic nature.
Styria
If you travel to Styria, you will encounter breathtaking nature there. Particularly well known are the Grüner See (Green Lake, Tragöß), the Toplitzsee and the Grundlsee. On your exploration tour, however, besides the lakes you should definitely also visit the Schladming-Dachstein region, where the so-called Dachstein massif is located. There, spectacular views and unique experiences await you that you definitely won't want to miss. In our guide, you can find out more about the Schladming-Dachstein region.
Grüner See (Green Lake)
The Grüner See is located in the Hochschwab area (Tragöß) and impresses its visitors with its crystal-clear water, which appears almost emerald green. What is special about this lake is how it comes into being. Every year anew, meltwater forms in spring, flooding the meadows and trees, creating a unique setting. Due to the special nature of this lake, swimming is prohibited. Instead, however, you can take enviable photos with the lake in the background and enjoy the view of this natural wonder.
Lake Toplitz
You can explore the Toplitzsee more closely near Bad Aussee while thinking about the legendary tales that surround the lake. To this day, the suspicion persists that gold from the Second World War lies hidden in the lake. The visit to the lake becomes all the more mystical as it is surrounded by forest and therefore already appears almost mysterious. You can also become active on the mountain lake by rowing across the cool waters in wooden boats. Motorboats are banned on the Toplitzsee. In addition, the Toplitzsee is not suitable for swimming, so unfortunately you cannot pursue the legend yourself (although the depth of over 100 metres would have thwarted your plans anyway).
Lake Grundlsee
The Grundlsee is located in the Ausseerland and is considered the largest lake in Styria. It is therefore also known by the name "Styrian Sea". Just like the Grüner See, the Grundlsee fascinates its visitors with its crystal-clear water, which practically invites you to experiences in the water. Enjoy a boat trip on the lake or venture into the cool waters for a refreshing dip. You can also discover stand-up paddling on the Grundlsee for yourself. If you're not one of the water-loving types, then just the sight of the lake, framed by mountains, is worthwhile on its own. The Grundlsee is also particularly well known for its fish specialities, which the gourmets among you should definitely try. Order some delicious char or whitefish and let yourself be impressed by nature.
Lake Altaussee
The Altausseer See is often referred to as Austria's most beautiful mountain lake and is located in the Liezen district. This photogenic lake lies in the midst of the mountain world of the Totes Gebirge, creating a unique setting. Let yourself be enchanted by this sight and don't forget to capture your memories in photos. You can also go wonderful swimming in this lake or discover kayaking for yourself.
Lake Erlauf
The Erlaufsee is located west of Mariazell and thus between the state border of Styria and Lower Austria. This mountain lake, too, is described as crystal clear and invites its visitors to a refreshing dip in the water. Besides a leisurely swim, you can also go diving in this lake. At its deepest point, the Erlaufsee reaches 38 metres, while the average depth is about 19 metres. You can find diving schools right at the lake or rent diving equipment in nearby Mariazell.
Lake Leopoldstein
The Leopoldsteiner See is located near Eisenerz and is surrounded by dense forests that immerse this mountain lake in a romantic ambience. The Leopoldsteiner See is particularly popular in summer, as you can also go swimming there. You can also enjoy the view of the lake over a delicious meal at one of the small guesthouses on the shore. What also makes the Leopoldsteiner See unique is the legend surrounding the lake. Supposedly, a water spirit guards the treasure of the Erzberg here.
Water experiences in Styria
In Styria, besides swimming, you can also engage in further water sports. Enjoy the panorama of the surrounding mountains while stand-up paddling (Grundlsee), or dive into the depths of the crystal-clear water with professional diving equipment (Erlaufsee). You can also wonderfully take a boat trip (Grundlsee), glide across the water in a wooden boat (Toplitzsee), or explore the lake yourself with a kayak (Altausseer See).
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
We wish you a pleasant journey to Austria and lots of fun on your tour of discovery of the various lakes, rivers and waterfalls. Don't forget to find out about the country's toll regulations. You can find more information about the toll in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to better plan your trip and see the relevant toll products displayed. If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Contact us via our email.
