This review is about our first lake holiday in Austria. Before moving to Austria, we lived for a long time on the coast of the ocean, or rather, the Gulf of Mexico. So for us the lakes were a novelty: we wanted to take a break from the ocean and the tropical summer and enjoy the beauty of the Austrian lakes.

Our goal was to visit picturesque places in northern and southern Austria. At the same time, relax and enjoy the trip, and so that it is stress-free. Another goal was to stay in a children's hotel and, finally, find out what it is!

We traveled with our 6 year old daughter. You understand, the child is constantly sitting in the car is not particularly interesting. so we tried to combine Austrian beauties with children's entertainment.

Travel time - July 2013, duration - 11 days. We traveled by car.

dicktay2000 @ Flickr (under CC)

jensjeppe @ Flickr (under CC)

evening with overnight stay in Salzburg,

Burningphotography @ Flickr (under CC)

grünfisch @ Flickr (under CC)

When drawing up the route, in addition to the advice of friends and information from the Internet, a regular map and a hint-map "romantic road" helped. You can send a request and they will send a brochure along this road.

I want to say right away that we didn’t have much choice with hotels, since the Austrian holidays were in full swing.

We, as "newcomers" to holidays in Austria, had no idea about this and had no idea how difficult it would be to find a hotel at a reasonable price. And we had a last-minute booking. On booking.com we found the best option, all our hotels were 4 stars.

The hotel in Salzburg is not worth mentioning as we only stayed there for 1 night.

For some reason, my daughter said that Salzburg reminded her of France. The child especially remembered the castle on the mountain and the old working bakery with a water mill and delicious bread.

Oh yes, and trolleybuses! It turns out they still exist! Alas, the ride failed.

Good staff, neat and clean. The food is so-so, but in the morning the buffet is good and very fresh.

The guest house has its own beach: not very close - you have to walk a bit, min. 10-15. This is not a sandy beach, but a secluded wonderful green area with sun loungers and a wooden pier.

There is no special entertainment for children on the beach, this place is more for adults: relax under the canopy of trees, take a nap or read a book. Very quiet place. We came a couple of times and were alone on the beach.

My daughter liked to run naked (very Austrian!).

The guest house also issues a pass to the public beach - with a slide, pools and a playground. Of course, for a child it was great, but for me it was torment because of the crowd of people. Literally, "the apple has nowhere to fall."

Note: parents with children should not expect any entertainment in the guest house. It is more calculated on the fact that everyone entertains himself as he wants. There were no children's bikes for rent.

Although there were families with children, the main contingent was older. It didn't bother us. We were so exhausted during the day: either exploring the surroundings, or on the beach, that we slept "without hind legs."

The audience in Fuschl is different - Austrians, Germans, English speakers and Russians. We walked through the mountains-forests, rode a summer toboggan, looked for gnomes from the forest (a special route for children). Water in o Zere Fuschl is crystal clear, almost drinking quality. The locals are very proud of this, and motor boats are not allowed on the lake, but only on oars or with an electric motor.

The water itself is insanely cold! I was only able to get in up to my knees. Husband and daughter splashed - he - because of his father's duty, and she had a carefree childhood.

One day we went to Lake Mondsee - Moon Lake (Mondsee), Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgan g see) and Lake Ischl. Very very beautiful!

We regret that we spent little time on this region: incomparable places, very peaceful and relaxing.

We also stopped by Hallstatt. I've wanted to see this place for a long time. It reminded me of a city frozen in time.

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I don’t know why, but it’s like there is a different course of life. The city itself was as if extinct: the closed shutters of houses and only tourists disturbed the peace and silence.

Our hotel is on the right in the picture below. We had a corner room on the 4th floor. The room was very nice and cozy, with a small balcony overlooking the lake: a good charge of positive energy. In Sonnelino itself, everything was busy, but to be honest, according to the description (and then in fact) we liked Sonne more.

Since our daughter is 6 years old, Sonne suited me. Maybe if she was younger, 1-3 years old - then maybe Sonnelino. For me personally, Sonnelino was too hectic to relax. Although, everything is wonderfully thought out and arranged for parents with small children.

Sonne is right on the water. On the territory there is a neat beach and a restaurant. Guests from Sonnelino can come to the Sonne area to use the beach and eat.

Sonnelino has a kids' club and an indoor pool. We didn't use the pool because the weather was wonderful and we enjoyed the summer days and evenings outside.

Note: sonne and Sonnelino are located across a busy local road from each other, so the child had to be driven and picked up, but this was not a problem for us.

In the kids club - nice staff - funny animators; Very good program: clowns, pony rides, making a fire and baking bread on it; a good area with a playground for outdoor games; there are few small animals (goats, sheep, rabbits).

My daughter couldn't wait to go to the club.

In both hotels you can rent bicycles for free, which we took advantage of.

You can rent boats and water bikes.

There is also a separate children's beach» for kids with a slide and a sandbox.

The food in the hotel is a "four", but fresh and varied. For children for lunch - a simple but good children's buffet.

There were no complaints about the service.

Guests - mostly Austrians, Russians flashed too.

Lake Klopeiner has been chosen as one of the warmest lakes in Austria. What I officially confirm is true! I was swimming!

nesta_eber @ Flickr (under CC)

We found it by chance when we rode bicycles around the lake. We went to the hotels we liked and asked if there was a room for the weekend. Decided to stay at Ameri k a Holzer am See and were not disappointed.

level higher than Sonne - the hotel itself, the guests, as well as the food. The audience was more presentable or something (although this word seems to be not very suitable here), but not stiff.

There were Austrians, a German-American family, and Russian families, mostly with children.

The hotel is not from the network of "children's hotels", but there are all conditions for relaxing with a child. The staff itself is very pleasant and helpful (this is also confirmed by the guests who lived there for 1-2 months).

Sunny Carinthia (Kärnten)
The southernmost region of Austria is known for numerous lakes with warm crystal clear water and well-groomed beaches. The swimming season lasts all summer, and the water warms up to 28 degrees.

The largest lake in the region Worthersee 19 sq. km is located near the border with Slovenia and Italy. picturesque beaches and the surrounding landscapes create a feeling of unity with nature. Metropolitan Klagenfurt (Klagenfurt) on the eastern shore, it is quiet and cozy; romantic restaurants are located on the terraces that go into the water. In the vicinity of Klagenfurt there are very interesting park miniatures "Minimundus" (Minimundus), which reproduced famous buildings from all over the world: the majestic ancient Greek Parthenon, the Taj Mahal - a poem in stone about the love of an Indian king for his wife, the pyramid of the Mayan Indians from Mexico and many others.

An idyllic beach nearby Maria Loretto (Maria Loretto), named after the castle standing on the shore, whose history dates back to the 17th century. Today, the castle grounds are open to visitors, and there are public baths on the lake. A small terrace in front of the castle is given over to a cozy restaurant. Inside the castle itself, various celebrations are held - banquets and marriages.

In the western bay of the lake, surrounded by forested slopes of the Alps, there is a resort Felden (Velden) - ideal place for lovers active rest. It provides all the conditions for hiking and cycling, as well as for water sports, football, volleyball, tennis. In the evening, social life is in full swing at the resort - you can go to the theater, to a concert, visit a colorful show or a casino.

The beach is also very popular. Maiernigg. In 1899, the outstanding Austrian composer Gustav Mahler bought land in these places and built a villa. It was here that many of his famous symphonies were written. Now in the local museum you can listen to excerpts from the works of Mahler, see the personal belongings of the composer.

There are also small charming lakes in Carinthia, such as Langsee(Langsee). The best pastime here will be relaxation and tranquility, sunbathing and relaxation among the marvelous alpine nature. Quiet respectable rest can be combined with a variety of water activities.

Lake Klopeinersee (Klopeinersee) considered one of the warmest in Europe, it is good to come here on vacation with children. It is not deep near the shore, safe children's bays are equipped along the lake. The beaches are covered with grass, on which the little ones can run barefoot. In addition, 15 species of fish live in the lake, so fishing enthusiasts will have something to do.

The untouched nature of the Salzkammergut (Salzkammergut)
The bewitching beauty of landscapes - azure lakes and delicate greenery of forests in the background mountain peaks- meets those who come to rest in this resort region of Austria. One of the most popular lakes in these places - Wolfgangsee (wolfgangsee) 13 sq. km. It received its name in honor of St. Wolfgang, who, according to legend, built the first church here at the end of the 10th century. On the banks of the Wolfgangsee there are cozy towns where you can find a lot of interesting things - the famous Gothic cathedral with an altar of the 15th century, the puppet museum and the famous romantic hotel Im Weissen RoessI in St. Wolfgang (Sankt Wolfgang), mountain Zwölferhorn V St. Gilgen (Saint Gilgen) and one of the most beautiful mountain plateaus of the Eastern Alps - Postalm (postalm) close to Stroblya (Strobl) . Unforgettable impression leave former salt mines and bizarre ice palaces in the fabulous world of caves mountain range Dachstein (Hoher Dachstein). In the resort towns, all conditions for a good rest are created: excellent swimming, hiking alpine meadows, boat trips. In fish restaurants, you can try dishes from fish that live in the lake.

At the time of buying Salzkammergut Card guests of the region receive a 25% discount on a large number of services - Railway tickets and tickets for boats on the lakes of the region, entry tickets to many museums, trips to caves, nature reserves.

The rural charm of Vorarlberg (Vorarlberg)
In the very west of the country, on the border with Germany and Switzerland, is the small Austrian province of Vorarlberg, with an area of ​​​​only 2601 square meters. m, and the population - 344,000 people. Framed on all sides by mountain ranges, this region has traditionally had a slightly isolated way of life from the rest of the country. Until now, Vienna has much less influence on local life than Munich or Zurich. The inhabitants of the province observe centuries-old traditions and are known as real conservatives in the good sense of the word. green hills and low mountains used as pastures, everywhere you can see colorful wooden houses with carved cornices. Agrotourism is very well developed here, hiking and horseback riding tours are held. Everyone who comes here can feel solidity and peace, forget about the bustle and enjoy the pastoral landscapes of this remote region.

But still, the special charm of the area is given by the lake constance (bodensee) 63 km long and up to 15 km wide. Its banks also go to Switzerland and Germany. Austria owns only 38 square meters. km. To feel all the splendor of the lake, it is worth taking the lift to the top of the mountain Pfender (Pfänder), which is located close to Bregenz (Bregenz) - a quiet and a little sleepy resort, which is located in the romantic surroundings of the shores of Lake Constance. There is no mass tourism and noisy companies. This is the place where the soul rests.

Natural wonder of Styria (Styria)
There is in Austria in the Styria region near the town Tragös (Tragöß) another lake, which, without a doubt, can be called natural wonder - Grüner See (Grü ner See) . During winter, its depth is only 1-2 meters, and the entire surrounding space is used as beautiful park. In spring, the temperature rises, the snow and ice on the mountain tops begin to melt, and the water rushes down and absorbs nearby meadows and parks. In summer, the depth of the lake reaches 12 meters. Previously, divers were allowed to dive here and connoisseurs came here during the season natural beauties to watch the fantastic underwater world with green glades, trees, paths, bridges, benches and gazebos for relaxing at the bottom of the lake. Starting in July, the lake gradually recedes and returns to its original size by winter, and the park becomes the property of pedestrians.

Whichever Austrian lake you choose, everywhere you will find nature of marvelous beauty, activities to your liking and the fabulous atmosphere of cozy coastal towns.

During the last ice age, the area of ​​today's Austria was completely covered in ice. As the glaciers began to melt and leave the mountains, they formed a landscape dominated by hills, rocky terrain and many lakes of various sizes.

To date, there are a total of more than 300 lakes in Austria. They are the most important factor in the country's tourism industry and attract tourists and lovers with their natural beauty. aquatic species sports from all over central Europe.

I would like to mention the most famous and most beautiful lakes Austria.

1. Lake Achen (Achensee).

This is the largest lake in Tyrol. Its depth reaches 133 m. The purest drinking water in the lake is so transparent that you can see the bottom at a depth of up to 10 m.

2. Almse (Almsee).

The lake is located in Upper Austria, in the Salzkammergut, and is about 2.3 km long and 700 meters wide. Since 1965, the area around the Almsee has been under the supervision of a conservation organization.

3. Attersee.

The Attersee is the largest lake in the Salzkammergut region. It extends 20 km from north to south and 4 km from east to west. Its water comes from another lake, Mondsee. Thanks to steady and constant winds, the Attersee attracts lovers sailing. Best time to visit the Attersee it is in spring, summer and autumn.

Due to the size of the lake, despite the cold temperatures, the lake rarely freezes in winter.

4. Faaker See.

The so-called Lake Faak is a high mountain lake in Austrian Carinthia. Faaker-Ze is popular place rest and bathing. Known for its turquoise water, it also attracts anglers, especially whitefish.

5. Fuschlsee.

Lake in Salzkammergut. Its surface is about 2.7 km² and its maximum depth is 66 meters.

6. Green Lake (Grüner See).

The lake is surrounded by forest and mountains. The name "Green Lake" comes from its emerald green water. Clean and clear water comes from melting snow from the karst mountains and has a temperature of 6 -8 ° C. An interesting feature lake is that in the spring, due to the melting of snow, the water level rises and the water floods the nearby meadows and parks. That is why the lake is popular among divers who can observe the green meadows under the water of the lake, in particular in June, when the water is at its highest. high level. Also under water you can find a bridge and benches.

7. Hallstätter See

The lake is located in the Salzkammergut region. Its surface is about 8.55 km2, its maximum depth is 125 meters. Like the rest of Austria's lakes, it is a popular destination for tourists, especially for diving.

8. Heiterwanger See

The lake is located in Tyrol. Its surface is about 1.37 km2 and its maximum depth is 61 meters. The lake is well known for fishing enthusiasts. Kaiser Maximilian I of Austria often fished here.

9. Irrse (Irrsee).

Lake in the Salzkammergut. Its area is approximately 3.5 km, the depth is 32 meters. It is a popular tourist destination, also due to the warm water temperature of all the lakes in the Salzkammergut.

10. Klopeiner See.

Lake near the city of Velkermarkt in Carinthia, one of the regions of Austria. Its surface is about 1.1 km² and its maximum depth is 48 meters. 15 species of fish live in the lake.

11. Millstätter See

Lake in Carinthia, located in the Central and Eastern Alps, near the town of Spittal der Drau. With an area of ​​13.3 thousand km2, this is the second largest lake in Carinthia (after Lake Wörther See), although it is also the deepest. Its steep banks are fjord-shaped. The mountains in the north reach up to 2100 meters in height and protect it from cold winds, so the surface water temperature can reach 25 ° C in summer.

12. Mondsee.

“Moon Lake” is located in Upper Austria in the Salzkammergut region and is adjacent to the Attersee. His southwest coast runs along the border between the regions of Upper Austria and Salzburg. Mount Drachenwand (Dragon Wall) on south coast The lake is an impressive sight. Mondsee is one of the last private lakes in Austria. In August 2008, it was put up for sale by its owner.

13. Neusiedler See.

Neusiedlersee is the second largest steppe lake in Central Europe. Located on the Austrian-Hungarian border, the lake covers an area of ​​315 km², of which 240 km² belongs to Austria. An interesting fact is that according to studies, the lake has completely dried up at least 100 times since its formation (18000 - 14000 BC). IN recent history the lake's disappearances have been recorded several times, for example, in 1740-1742, 1811-1813, and most recently in 1866, in a diary local resident, Gottlieb Wenzelja, it was recorded that he crossed the bed of the lake on June 4 without wetting his boots. Part of the bottom of the lake was used for agriculture, sown with wheat and turnips. However, in 1871 the water began to return to the lake and by the spring of 1876 it was back to normal size.

14. Plansee.

Plansee is a lake in Tyrol with an area of ​​only about 2.87 km2, its maximum depth is 78 meters. It is located on the Austrian federal highway B 179, which leads to Germany through the Ammer Pass.

15. Traunsee

Lake in the Salzkammergut, with an area of ​​24.5 km² and a depth of 191 meters. It is the deepest inland lake in Austria. Traunsee is a popular tourist destination and its main attraction is medieval castle Orth. The lake is surrounded by mountains, including Traunstein - the highest mountain of the coast.

16. Urize (Urisee).

Is not big lake, near Reutte, Tyrol. A feature of Urize is that not a single river flows into it or flows out of it, and therefore large fluctuations in water level (up to 4 m) are observed in it. The water quality in the lake is rated by the European Commission as one of the highest.

17. Wolfgangsee.

Wolfgangsee is a lake in Austria, which lies mainly within the state of Salzburg and is one of the most famous lakes in the Salzkammergut resort area. The lakeside town of St. Wolfgang and the lake itself were named after St. Wolfgang of Regensburg, who, according to legend, built the first church here at the end of the 10th century. Settlements around the lake, especially in St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen are popular resort towns, mostly in the summer. The Wolfgangsee has been a favorite holiday destination for former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl for many years.

18. Wörthersee.

The lake and its basin in the foothills of central Carinthia were largely shaped by glaciers during the last ice age. This is the largest lake in Carinthia. The Mediterranean climate and clear warm water make the lake a popular tourist destination in the summer. Most tourists visit the lake in July and August when the water temperature reaches 25°C.

19. Zeller See.

Zeller See is a small freshwater lake in the Austrian Alps. The lake is fed by numerous small mountain rivers, but only one stream flows out of it into the Salzach River. In winter, the lake freezes completely and is used for winter views sports. In summer, the lake is open for boat trips. Boats powered by internal combustion engines are not allowed to sail, except for ferries that cross the lake. The water is very clear and suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

20. Lake Constance (Bodensee).

Lake Constance is located at the northern foot of the Alps, and consists of three reservoirs: the upper and lower lakes and the Rhine connecting them. The lake is located in Germany, Switzerland and Austria and is an important source of drinking water for southwestern Germany. There is a hiking trail and a bicycle route around the lake.

Since 2001, airships have regularly risen above the lake to offer tourists an incredibly beautiful panorama from a bird's eye view.

The most popular Austrian lakes for tourists are mostly located in mountainous areas. Despite this, they are easy to get to in a variety of ways. The abundance of travelers with proper environmental management does not adversely affect the environment. The water here is clean and clear, suitable for swimming in summer, and in the winter months it turns into a skating rink.

The coast of almost all lakes is partially built up tourist bases and centers. A variety of leisure programs helps to satisfy the tastes of different people. More active guests will go fishing, sports or go to ski resort. Those who are closer to a measured rest can take a walk along the lakes, book a boat tour or sit in a themed restaurant near the water.

The most beautiful lakes in Austria

The best places with cities and resorts to relax on the lake. Photos with names and descriptions!

Hallstetter See

Located near Bad Ischl. It reaches 5 km in length and 2 km in width. The lake looks like a fjord and is surrounded by mountains. The famous village of Hallstatt, a UNESCO site, is located on the slopes. Excursions to the former salt mines, cruises on the lake are popular here. The area around the lake is exceptionally picturesque, it is one of the most beautiful places in Austria.

Zeller See

A freshwater lake on the shore of which stands the city of Zell am See. Length - 4 km, width - up to 1.5 km. Used in tourism all year round. In winter, the water freezes and the surface becomes an ice rink or ski run. And in summer the water warms up to +22°C. All conditions for diving are created. Boating is popular throughout the Zeller See, except for the southern part, where there is a lot of aquatic vegetation.

wolfgangsee

The lake can be found on the border between Salzburg and Upper Austria. The area is 13 km², and the depth reaches 114 m. Diving enthusiasts come here for the sake of the “French Schantz” - a special zone where an underwater labyrinth has formed due to flooded trees. Each coastal town is famous for something different. For example, St. Gilgen has beautiful beaches, and St. Wolfgang has a puppet museum with more than a thousand exhibits.

Achensee

The largest of the lakes in the federal state of Tyrol. The area is 6.8 km², the depth is up to 133 m. Due to its length and constant winds, the Achensee is suitable for windsurfing and sailing boat trips. In the vicinity there are inexpensive boarding houses with good service, as the region is a tourist one. Attractions nearby: nature reserve, waterfalls, ancient catholic churches.

Mondsee

One of the warmest lakes in the Salzkammergut, the water warms up to +26°C. The area is 13.8 km². There are two resorts on its banks. The Mondsee settlement has a large beach complex with diving towers and children's areas. There are more old buildings in St. Lorenz; in one of the churches, an organ from the end of the 17th century has been preserved. Both towns have created conditions for active recreation: courts, golf courses, bowling, etc.

Wörther See

It is located in the south of the country, near the border with Slovenia. The area exceeds 19 km², the average depth is about 50 m. The lake freezes about once every 10 years. The area became a tourist area in the 19th century. There is something to do in the area: climb the world's highest wooden observation tower, visit the Mahler Museum, take a walk in the mountains or a bike tour around the lake. The best time to visit is early summer.

Faaker See

Belongs to the territory of Carinthia. Area - 2.2 km², depth - up to 30 m. One of the cleanest in the Alps. A tourist center has been built on the coast with hotel complex, shops, cafes, clubs. Leisure activities also include cycling, horseback riding, motorboating, etc. From late spring to mid-autumn, a lot of holiday events and fairs.

Piburger

The lake is lost in the mountains and is popular with tourists just like natural object. However, civilization in its best manifestations has also reached here: a boat station, a platform for bathers and a restaurant have been built. You can get to Piburgger along a long and picturesque wooden bridge. Not far from here, kayakers start during traditional competitions. Summer in the area is hot, but short.

Weissensee

Located at the foot of the Galitaler Alps. The area is 6.5 km², the depth is up to 97 m. A bridge is thrown across the narrowest part of the lake. The length of the coastline is about 23 km. Two thirds are reserved lands. The color of the water near the coast is different due to the chalk deposits. In winter, the water surface freezes and turns into a natural skating rink. In summer, there are many divers and lovers of measured rest.

Grüner See

The lake in the land of Styria was formed due to the melting of snow. For this reason, its area varies significantly depending on the season. In winter, the depth is from 1 to 2 m, and the district turns into a park. In summer, the ice melts, there is more water, and the depth increases to 12 m. The area is very popular with diving enthusiasts who take colorful photos in the underwater park because of this phenomenon.

Millstetter See

It is the second largest lake in Carinthia. The area is 19 km², the depth reaches 142 m. Better time to visit - July, when the swimming season is gaining its strength, and the water warms up to + 26 ° C. There are 28 km of cycle paths around. Nearby resorts provide a full range of services and entertainment from spas to golf courses. You can rent fishing equipment.

Almse

The lake is located in Upper Austria. The area is 0.85 km², the maximum depth is 5 m. It is practically not suitable for swimming due to the low water temperature. It freezes completely for the winter, the thickness of the ice is impressive, therefore it attracts skaters. There are convenient paths for walking around, in terms of infrastructure it is inferior to other lakes. Despite this, there are places to stop and eat nearby.

Traunsee

The deepest in Austria is located in the central part of the country. The area is 24.5 km², the depth is up to 191 m. Two cities were built on the coast. Gmunden is famous for its ancient castle on the water, as well as handmade ceramic products. Traunkirchen has all the conditions for outdoor activities. There is also a church from the middle of the 18th century. Walking on the lake is a favorite pastime for both locals and tourists.

Plansee

Located in the highlands in Tyrol. The area is just under 3 km², the maximum depth is 78 m. The high copper content made the water turquoise. Most of the coastline is covered with rocks, but there are also beach areas. There are several campsites, restaurants and entertainment venues, while the development is not dense. There is a pier with rental boats, pleasure boats run.

Attersee

Most big body of water Austrian Alps belongs to the resort area of ​​the Salzkammergut. The area is 45.9 km², the depth is up to 171 m. Ancient ruins can be found in the vicinity. Cities are built along the coast, so the choice of a place to stay is wide. Each of them provides a range of services and leisure options. For example, in Nussdorf there is a large beach, as well as a "bar mile" - a cluster of drinking establishments and restaurants.

Klopeiner See

One of the most suitable lakes for swimming is located in Carinthia. Its area is 1.1 km², and the depth is approximately 48 m. There are more than fifty tennis courts, several diving schools, a golf course, 200 km of bicycle paths, stables, organized fishing. And this is not a complete list of options for outdoor activities on the coast of Klopeiner See.

Ossiacher See

Located in the lands of Carinthia. Area - 10.5 km², average depth - 20 m. Bases were built on the slopes of neighboring mountains and about 30 ski slopes of varying complexity. Coastal cities are ready to offer tourists modern service and a wide range of leisure activities. Attractions nearby: Terra Mystica cave, doll museums in Villach, miniature museum in Klagenfurt, monkey mountain and more.

Lunerze

The lake is located in the federal state in Vorarlberg. The bottom is one and a half thousand meters, the maximum width is 750 m. The depth reaches 139 m. It has increased significantly after the construction of the dam. You can get here by funicular. A tourist station operates on a permanent basis, also called a hut in the local manner. Travelers can stay overnight or dine here.

Goshausen

Three lakes are located on the border of Upper Austria and Styria. Reservoirs were squeezed into a crevice of a mountain range. Vorderer Gosau is the largest and richest in fish. There are buildings on the banks of Gozaulak and Hinterer Gosau, and they are filled with water only in spring. Total length groups - more than 5 km. The lakes are interconnected by narrow channels. Popular resort Hallstatt was built just 10 km from here.

Fuschlsee

Refers to the territory of Salzburg. The area is 2.7 km², the depth is up to 68 m. A large sports complex has been built on the shore. There are two beaches - Fuschl and Stolingerhof. Of all the bodies of water in this federal state, the Fuschlsee has the clearest water. Its quality is comparable to drinking. Motorized boats are not allowed on the lake. Fishing has a limited season from April to the end of autumn.

Grundlsee

The largest lake in Styria. Area - 4 km², depth - up to 64 m. Very high environmental performance, including the purity of water. Right on the beach there are several boarding houses and hotels. Water does not warm up well, even when high temperature air most of the summer it is cool. Festivals, carnivals and other events are regularly held. In winter there are numerous ski and snowboard trails.

Toplitze

Lake belonging to the lands of Styria. The area is 0.54 km², the average depth is 70 m. The terrain is difficult to access, with poor infrastructure. There is a legend that the Nazis flooded many valuables here, including works of art. It is not possible to fully explore the bottom due to flooded trees and other large objects. The authorities have banned treasure hunting without special permission.

Hintersteiner

Located in the Wilde Kaiser National Park. The area is 0.56 km², the average depth is 13 m. The lake is fed by underground sources. Therefore, the water is always cool and clean. Its transparency reaches 10 m. There is a natural beach on the coast. Circular walks along the coastline are popular with tourists. Hotels of varying degrees of comfort have been built within a few kilometers.

Walchsee

One of the warmest lakes in Tyrol. The area is 0.95 km², the depth is approximately 21 m. The water temperature here is practically unchanged. Leisure activities in the area: archery, water sports, golf, horseback riding. There are mountain bike trails and walking paths. Guided tours of nearby cities. Approximately 10 km from the lake built in the forest water attraction, also called outdoor swimming pool.

lake constance

Located on the border of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. In fact, it represents three reservoirs at once: Upper and Lower Lake and the Rhine River that connects them. Area - 536 km², average depth - 90 m. Big City Austrian part - Bregenz. There are many attractions here, including St. Martin's Tower and the largest floating stage in the world. Navigation is well developed on the lake.

Austria has a huge number of the cleanest and most picturesque lakes, they are so clean that you can even drink water from them, can you imagine how cool it is to swim in drinking water?))

The southernmost and warmest lake district is Carinthia, there are more than 1200 lakes. The water warms up to 28 degrees, while the air is at a comfortable temperature without heat. Due to the fact that Carinthia is surrounded by the Alps, the climate is very mild and comfortable. Immediately on the border with the land of Salzburg is the highest mountain in Austria - with a huge glacier and (peak height 3796 m)

The warmest lake in Austria — , Carinthia

Temperature up to +28°C , at the same time, it is also the purest water that you can drink directly from the lake. The coast is very shallow, so it is ideal to relax here with children. The lake has one drawback, it is very small and in the high season there can be too many vacationers. There are tennis courts, a golf course, 3 surf schools, a diving school, a lot of entertainment for children.

Lake wörthersee Wörthersee - the largest lake in Carinthia

The length of the lake is more than 17 kilometers. The water temperature here warms up to 27 degrees, on the shores of the lake there is a Mediterranean climate. Since the 19th century it has been one of the most elite resorts in Austria, it is called the "Alpine Riviera" there is a casino, a golf course, tennis, expensive restaurants. Here you can rent a yacht or an electric boat (diesel engines are prohibited). The water from the lake is drinkable. The largest and most charming city on the lake - Felden, this is an ideal place for lovers of both glamorous and active holidays.

Lake Weißensee

Although not the warmest lake (up to + 24 ° C in summer), it is the most pristine, for which it received the European Prize for the Environment and Tourism. Weissensee is considered one of the most picturesque high-altitude (930 m above sea level) European lakes with untouched nature. The lake is framed by the deep green color of coniferous forests, and against their background, the piercing turquoise of the water seems even brighter. Weiss in German is white, White Lake due to the deposits of chalk in the coastline, it is precisely thanks to him that this is why the water in the lake is of such unreal beauty.

The transparency of the water reaches 30 meters, and the depth of the lake is 99 meters, which is why this place is considered ideal for divers and divers. There are no roads around the lake, and 2/3 of the coast is protected area natural park.

Salzkammergut (Salzkammergut) - summer holidays in Austria

The second largest lake district - Salzkammergut (Salzkammergut, it is located in three federal states: Upper Austria, Styria And Salzburg. The Salzkammergut is translated as "Salt pantry", in the salt mines of the Salzkammergut, salt mining began in the second century BC.

Hallstatt

On the shore of the lake is the town of the same name Hallstatt, with the world's oldest salt mine. The town and the lake are so picturesque that the Chinese even reproduced a complete copy of Hallstatt in their Guangdong province. It leads to the same city scenic road, which ends in a tunnel carved into the mountain. And the city opens its view only at the very end. This region is under the protection of UNESCO. The water temperature in the lake in summer rises to 24 degrees. On the outskirts of the town there is an excellent beach with children's slides, swings and an artificial island. The lake is in the ground Salzburg.

Lake Mondsee (Mondsee)

The warmest lake in the Salzkammergut is the lake Mondsee, in summer the water temperature warms up to 26 degrees. Around the lake, more than 100 km of hiking trails have been laid through the most picturesque regions of the Salzkammergut.

Here is the largest surfing and sailing center in all of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Of course there are golf, tennis, bike routes. This is a paradise for fishermen. The lake is 10 kilometers long. The lake is located on the border Upper Austria and Salzburg and is under the protection of UNESCO.

Lake Traunsee (Traunsee)

Traunsee (Salzburg)— a picturesque lake with an ancient castle Ort (Schloss Ort) on the island, it was built in the 12th century, now a picturesque wooden bridge. The entrance to the castle is through the clock tower, then you find yourself in a cozy, well-groomed courtyard of the castle. On the other side of the bridge, a gorgeous view of the main town of the lake, Gmunden, opens up. (Gmunden) cozy, with classic Austrian houses and a church. The city is famous for its ceramics and earthenware, even the hands on the city hall clock were made of faience back in the 18th century. There are tame swans and ducks in the lake, they boldly swim up to tourists in the clearest water and demand treats))) The water temperature in August can rise to 22 degrees, the depth is 191 meters!

You can ride on the Traunsee on a paddle steamer, it was launched in 1871, and you can look at the lake from above by taking the funicular up to the mountains.

Active recreation in Austria.

Paragliding, surfing, golf, caving, mountaineering, rafting, hiking and biking trails, green tourism, yachting, glacier hiking, panoramic roads, skiing(yes, even in August) - this is all summer in Austria. Diving, yes even it is here, in the clear and warm waters of the Carinthian and Salzkammergut lakes you can dive, explore and get a PADY certificate.

Summer in Austria has everything and a little more. If you want peace and quiet, then you thermal complexes(about them a little later), and if you want Adventures, then you will definitely get them)))) Let's start with walking and cycling routes

Hiking (trekking) and cycling routes in Austria

Trekking routes are located throughout Austria, more than 15,000 km of marked, well-groomed, and most importantly safe routes. These are separate paths laid with gravel or asphalt, they rarely intersect with highways. Here you can enjoy the silence, beauty and unforgettable panoramas of Austria and the Alps.

The most picturesque of them are in national parks or ski resorts, where people ski in winter and walk or drive in summer. Using the working summer lifts, you can climb high into the mountains without much effort, but then it all depends on your preparedness.

High Tauern(Nationalpark Hohe Tauern)

Biggest national park Austria Hohe Tauern Nature Reserve (Hoe Tauern) There are more than 260 peaks of three-thousanders in the park. This is the highest mountain range in Austria. Here is the highest mountain in Austria -, there is a hiking route to its top (it is recommended to go through it with an instructor). The most spectacular panoramic road along is also located here.

And a lot of bikes hiking trails: for example to Krimmlsky (Crimml) waterfall or around picturesque lake and ski resort

The best route for cyclists

The classic cycling route (aka pedestrian) from "Passau to Vienna" goes through a picturesque valley Wachau (Wachau) , past the most picturesque loop of the bend of the Danube, where castles are located on high banks, and apricot orchards in the valleys. Dodina Wachau is under the protection of UNESCO, it is very beautiful, untouched place, you will get real pleasure from traveling around these parts.

Alpine-Adriatic road

The route that can take you from Austria to Italy through Slovenia is the Alpine-Adriatic Road. The length of the route is 700 km, it is divided into segments of 20 km, and is designed even for inexperienced travelers, the elevation changes are small, where you will definitely find where to spend the night on the way. The route starts again at the foot of the mountain Grossglockner and ends at Italian city Trieste on the coast mediterranean sea, the whole road has special markings, so it is almost impossible to stray from the route. But the way the road crosses the most beautiful valleys, turbulent rivers and lakes.

Camping holidays in Austria

In the summer it seems that everyone has moved out of their city apartments, removed their campers from their garages and went to travel around the Alps. In Austria, there is actually no such thing as summer cottages, and if someone from the city wants to relax in nature, they go to campsites. Campsites have their own stardom, like hotels. Campsites with a large number of stars have swimming pools, restaurants, saunas, animators for children and other delights of hotel life. If two or three stars, then there will be just a lawn for a car camper or tents and harsh showers with toilets.

Camping in Austria prices

Several accommodation options are possible, all of them are much cheaper than accommodation in guesthouses or hotels in the Alps.

1. Tents: from 6 euros per seat plus from 2 euros per person
2. Autocamper: from 20 euro
3. Bungalow, trailer with kitchen and shower: from 40 euro

Campsites are scattered throughout Austria, you can stay in cities and even in national parks. Many of them are located on the shores of lakes.

SPA and thermal baths in summer in Austria

A separate and rich topic is holidays in thermal spas. If you have already walked around the mountains and lakes of Austria, it's time to relax in thermal complexes. There are a great many of them in Austria: both near Vienna and in the Alps, and in ski resorts. There is a whole cult of thermal and spa holidays here, the Austrians even buy annual subscriptions to the thermal baths.

Traveling in the national parks of Austria

In Austria, vast territories have been given over to National parks, nature here is really protected and protected, in many reservoirs it is allowed to use only electric vehicles, it is forbidden to park cars near reservoirs, of course, one can not talk about deforestation at all. National parks are an ideal place for families with children.

Therefore, you can drink water here directly from rivers and lakes, the forests are in a virgin state, and the animals live their lives and do not pay any attention to people.

Hohe Tauern National Park (Hohe Tauern

Already written about it above in this article in hiking trails, but it is so big and cool that it would not be superfluous to tell a little more about it)))

The Hohe Tauern (Hohe Tauern) National Park, the largest in all of Europe, has it all: the highest mountain in Austria Grossglockner, the largest three-cascade waterfall Krimml, 4500 km of routes combined into 60 thematic routes. And a beautiful narrow mountain gorge Liechtensteinklamm (Liechtensteinklamm) with a waterfall and 60 peaks with a height of more than 3000 meters and snow caps all year round.

Thayatal National Park (thayatal)

The park is located on the border with the Czech Republic and protects the nature of the green canyon of Austria, which was carved by the Taja River, which goes around the mountain that has grown in the middle of the valley. The canyon is up to 40 meters deep.

Neusiedl am See, Seewinkel (Burgenland)

National park with the second largest (after the Danube Delta) reed zone, a paradise for rare species of birds and animals and very harmonious flat landscapes. If you appreciate the charm of restraint and asceticism of the steppe nature, you will really like it here. There are many vineyards on the territory, with tasting rooms…

Gesuse National Park (Gesäuse)

The youngest national park in Austria, founded only in 2002, is located in the federal state of Styria, not far from the border with Switzerland and Liechtenstein, this park has the largest elevation difference, almost 1000 meters, so there is a very diverse nature and landscapes, and also here the most spectacular rafting in Austria on the turbulent waters of the Enns River. There are plans to expand the territory of the park, but even now you will get a lot of impressions here.

Gastronomic tours: wine and cheeses of Austria

We are accustomed to wine and cheese roads in all sorts of Italy and France. Austria does not seem to be one of the world leaders in delicious cuisine. But, wines produced in Burgenland and Southern Styria are highly valued, and IceWine is a special pride - ice wine.

Austrian wine road

The Weinviertel offers not only excellent wine, but also stunning scenic views. You can just move from from one wine house/cellar to another. Leisurely tasting white sweet wines, and of course IceWine ( Ice wine), the grapes for this wine are harvested after the first frosts, while the berries release more sugar .

Austrian Syra Road

Bregenzerwalde, Voralberg Bregenzerwald Cheese Road , near the border with Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Here, 160 local cheese producers from 22 villages united and created their own Alpine cheese road. There are many cheese dairies here. Excursions are held in cheese dairies, you can get acquainted with the technology of making cheese, this is a whole philosophy.

Restaurants, of course, serve a variety of cheese dishes: cheese soup, közknepfle cheese balls and käzsperzle cheese sticks. Here they also serve a cheese drink, it is hot and they drink it instead of tea, sour-cheese flavor, unusual, but tasty.

You also need to get into the damp cellars in Lingenau (Lingenau) where most of the cheeses in the Bregenzenwald region mature.

If you want to relax and refresh yourself a little differently, you can go to.

Fishing in Austria

In Austria, you can’t come to the river and just throw a fishing rod, to fish you need to get a license, it is issued separately in each of the federal states, and with a Tyrolean license you can’t fish in Styria. In addition, permission is required from the owner of the land where you intend to fish. The cost of a license is from 20 to 25 euros. You can usually buy it either in hotels by lakes or tourist centers, usually there is also obtained permission from the owner of the land. You can only fish during daylight hours, from morning to evening, fishing is prohibited at night and you can’t just stop and spend the night on the shore, only in places specially designated for camping, the fines are enormously high, both for fishing without a license and for unauthorized overnight stays.

The most popular regions for fishing in Austria:

GrosseMugl River ( Grossmugl) – right tributary of the Danube, located in Upper Austria, trout and grayling are caught here

Gail River(gail)- most picturesque place in the very southern region countries - Carinthia. This is the left tributary of the Drava, grayling, rainbow and brown trout are caught here.

Coppernraun (Koppentraun ) — in the Salzkammergut region is one of the six best trout places in Europe.

Fishing Center Stans in Tyrol , built in places where princes used to fish. Importantly, there is no need to pay for a license. Pay only for the weight of the catch. Right there in the restaurant of the center, your prey will be prepared for you.

And you can also fish in the reserve with untouched nature. hager angel park (Hager-Angel Park) in Tyrol Kössen here in the lake Hagersee trout, carp or sturgeon are found.

Glaciers and ski resorts in summer in Austria

And yes, there is no escape from skiing in Austria, ski resorts are open all year round, and a gurney in swimsuits will be provided to you on glaciers above 3000 m above sea level. Most of them are located in Tyrol.

Zell am See And Kaprun.Kitzsteinhorn glacier. State of Salzburg

recently a very popular ski resort. At an altitude of 3029 meters, you will find descents along the glacier, the Panorama 3000 cinema, and a view of the most high mountain Austria - Grossglockner. And having rolled, you can go down and soak up the new thermal complex TAUERN SPA Zell am See-Kaprun

Sölden (solden). Tyrol. Rettenbach Glacier (Rettenbachferner)

Probably the most popular ski resort in Austria, located in a narrow valley Otztal(Otztal) , surrounded on all sides by three-thousanders, here in the summer you can ski on the glacier Rettenbach (Rettenbach) at an altitude of 3340 meters above sea level! Plus, even in the summer you can do freeride here. Well, there is an undeniable additional bonus here - thermal complex Aqua House (AquaDome). Before the appearance of the baths in Kaprun, it was the largest thermal complex in the Alps. 72 million euros were spent on its construction

Stubai Glacier (Stubai)

It is the largest glacier in Austria equipped for ski slopes– 110 km of tracks. There are even trails for cross-country skiing and tobogganing. This is an ideal resort for families with children, there are slopes of any complexity.

Hintertux Glacier

100% snow guarantee all year round, lifts work all year round without a break even for one day. The glacier is huge, with gorgeous views of the peaks around. 10 km of summer trails will give the opportunity to enjoy the slopes, those who can't wait for winter.

Pitztal

Pitstal cannot be called year-round, but in July there is still every chance to ride, you just have to fill up the highest in Astria cable car Pitz Panoramabahn, on the way, at the same time, you will be blown away by the views of 50 three-thousanders and the highest peak of Tyrol Wildspitze(3774 m). Even if you are not going to ski, you should definitely climb here to admire the breathtaking alpine views. The slopes of this resort have been awarded many times as the most ideal.

Styria. Dachstein Glacier (
)

A glacier where you can forget that you came here for skiing. Ice and Mammoth caves, which can be accessed directly from the ski lifts. There is an observation deck not for the faint of heart, from 5 viewing platforms in the form of a palm and with a transparent floor. The UNESCO-protected Dachstein Glacier is a protected area that can be admired all year round.

Come summer in Austria, it's cool here! You are sure to find entertainment and adventure just for you. And believe me, it will be one of the best summer vacations of your life!