Top 20 Lakes in Upper Austria
Best lakes in Upper Austria are found within a region known for its natural beauty, particularly in the Salzkammergut area. This part of Austria features numerous lakes, offering diverse characteristics and activities. The landscape is defined by crystal-clear waters, often surrounded by mountains and hills, providing varied environments for exploration. These natural features contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor activities.
Best lakes in Upper Austria
- The most popular lakes include the Bürglsteig riverside trail, a trail that offers stunning views and places to rest around Lake Wolfgang. This section of the trail is considered spectacular, with opportunities for strolling and swimming.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Mondsee, a lake surrounded by an imposing mountain landscape. Its warm waters make it popular for swimming and water sports, and the area offers hiking and cycling routes.
- Visitors also love Front Gosau Lake, a lake known for its pristine waters and reflections of the Dachstein massif. It is appreciated for its natural beauty and is suitable for hiking and biking.
- Upper Austria is known for its diverse range of lakes, including large, deep lakes like Traunsee, warm swimming lakes such as Mondsee, and serene alpine lakes like Gosauseen. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with dramatic mountain backdrops to those nestled in forests.
- The lakes in Upper Austria are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2000 upvotes and over 190 photos shared across more than 390 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Mondsee (near Oberburgau)
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Lake Mondsee
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View of Mondsee
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Hallstatt Lake East Shore Cycle Path
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Front Gosau Lake
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Lake Laudach
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South Shore of Lake Attersee
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You can do this easily at the Attersee, because there are many public bathing areas around the lake that you can use for free. And if you are looking for the ambience of an outdoor pool, you can go to one of the beach baths on the Attersee.
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Bürglsteig riverside trail
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Johannesberg Chapel, Traunkirchen
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Lake Mondsee
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Tips from the Community
Wonderful views over Lake Mondsee reveal a striking combination of alpine scenery and tranquil, natural beauty. The clear, shimmering green waters of the lake gently reflect the surrounding mountains, which rise majestically into the sky. The tranquil surface invites you to linger and dream, while the light – depending on the time of day – refracts across the water in ever-changing facets. Surrounded by lush forests and idyllic shorelines, Lake Mondsee offers an atmosphere of peace and serenity. The view sweeps far across the panorama, which is presented in harmonious colors and soft contours. It is a place that impresses with its natural elegance – a quiet jewel in the heart of the Salzkammergut.
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The bike tour along the shores of Lake Mondsee is one of the most scenic routes in the Salzkammergut. Starting on the northern shore of the lake, the trail leads past quiet coves and reed-lined shorelines, offering almost continuous, magnificent views of the crystal-clear waters and the imposing Drachenwand mountain in the background. Especially in the morning or late afternoon, the light over the lake is magical – perfect for a short rest. Cycling the route counterclockwise offers the best views of the lake and mountains, especially at sunset. Bring your swimsuit; some of the most beautiful access points to the lake are hidden but easily accessible by bike.
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At this point, it's clear to us that we'd never want to miss this fascinating lakeside tour with its stunning panorama and uniquely beautiful views; it's certainly one of the most beautiful in the Lake District! But as for the route conditions, we wouldn't necessarily want to repeat it either. Almost 90% of it is paved, and when it's alongside roads, it's with hikers and oncoming cyclists, but unfortunately, almost 90% of it is also along and on very busy roads. It's not exactly relaxing to be constantly tailgating by cars. It certainly doesn't get any better in high season. Even though most drivers are very considerate, there are always a few idiotic idiots along the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Upper Austria are best for families?
Many lakes in Upper Austria are family-friendly. Lake Mondsee is particularly popular due to its warm waters, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. The Front Gosau Lake also offers accessible paths and stunning views, suitable for all ages. The South Shore of Attersee and Lake Laudach are also great options with family-friendly features.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in Upper Austria boast diverse natural features. You'll find crystal-clear waters, often reflecting majestic mountains like the Dachstein massif at Front Gosau Lake. Many lakes are surrounded by lush forests, such as Lake Laudach, and offer scenic viewpoints. Some, like Attersee and Mondsee, feature beautiful beaches and natural monuments.
Are there good hiking opportunities near the lakes in Upper Austria?
Yes, the region offers excellent hiking opportunities. The Bürglsteig riverside trail around Wolfgangsee is a spectacular section with stunning views and places to rest. Around Front Gosau Lake, you'll find trails through alpine pastures with iconic mountain reflections. For more options, explore the Hiking in Upper Austria guide, which includes routes like the 'Wanderung zum Hinteren Gosausee'.
Which lakes are best for cycling in Upper Austria?
Several lakes offer fantastic cycling routes. The Lake Mondsee area is known for its scenic bike tours, with trails offering magnificent views of the water and Drachenwand mountain. The Hallstatt Lake East Shore Cycle Path is also a beautiful route. You can find more cycling trails in the Cycling in Upper Austria guide, including a loop around Lake Hallstatt.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Upper Austria?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming and water sports, especially at warmer lakes like Mondsee. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with autumn providing spectacular leaf-peeping opportunities, particularly around the Langbathseen. Winter can be magical for snow landscapes, especially around the Gosauseen.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the region is rich in history and culture. The town of Mondsee, near Lake Mondsee, has historical architecture and is home to Neolithic pile dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On Traunsee, you can visit the iconic Ort Castle and the charming town of Gmunden. Hallstätter See is famous for the UNESCO World Heritage village of Hallstatt and its ancient salt mine.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming and water sports?
Many lakes are excellent for swimming and water sports. Mondsee is one of the warmest in the Salzkammergut, perfect for families. Attersee, as one of Europe's cleanest lakes, is a paradise for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving. Wolfgangsee also offers a wide array of water activities. The Offensee is a secret tip for swimming with natural bathing beaches.
Can I find wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, some areas offer wheelchair-accessible paths. Front Gosau Lake is noted for having wheelchair-accessible features, allowing visitors to enjoy its pristine waters and mountain reflections. It's always advisable to check specific trail conditions before your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Upper Austria?
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the imposing mountain backdrops. The serene atmosphere, especially around lakes like Langbathseen, and the diverse outdoor activities, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, are highly appreciated. The opportunity to find hidden coves for swimming and the picturesque reflections of mountains in the water are also frequently mentioned highlights.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' lakes in Upper Austria?
For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting the Langbathseen (Vorderer and Hinterer) near Ebensee, which are local favorites for their peaceful atmosphere. The Offensee, a 'fairytale' mountain lake at the western end of the Totes Gebirge, is also considered a secret tip for its clear water and natural bathing beaches, offering a quieter escape.
Where can I find accommodation near the lakes?
Accommodation options are available around many of the popular lakes. You can find various choices near Traunsee, Wolfgangsee, Mondsee, Attersee, and Hallstätter See, ranging from hotels to guesthouses and holiday apartments. For specific information on Mondsee, you can check resources like austria.info.
What kind of mountain biking trails are available near the lakes?
The region offers diverse mountain biking trails. You can find routes like the 'Schafberg–Tour' and 'Die Schafberg Tour' which take you around the Schafberg mountain and past the Schwarzensee. The 'Attersee-Krahberg circular tour' is another option. For a comprehensive overview, refer to the MTB Trails in Upper Austria guide.
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