Best lakes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein are primarily man-made reservoirs located in the Hohe Tauern National Park in Carinthia, Austria. The region is dominated by the Kölnbrein Reservoir, which is formed by Austria's highest dam, standing 200 meters tall. These high-alpine lakes are integral to the Malta-Reisseck Power Plant Group, showcasing impressive engineering within a natural landscape. Visitors can explore the unique blend of hydroelectric infrastructure and alpine scenery, offering opportunities for hiking and viewpoints.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
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…an impressive and worth seeing building 👀
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...here you go to the valley of the "ignorant"! 🤣
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…a great hiking area with impressive views 👀
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The largest dam in Austria https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltakraftwerke#Oberstufe
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24 workers died during construction from 1971-1978
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By the way, with the Kärnten Card you have completely free access to the Kölnbreinsperre at no additional cost 👊🙃👍
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Please remember that you can only pay with cash at the hut, as the internet no longer works from this point onwards 👊🙃👍
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Nice business... anything where the wind can get in easily should be secured in advance... Hat Hütchen Trallala...
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The Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein area is unique for its impressive blend of engineering and alpine nature. It features Austria's highest dam, the Kölnbreinsperre Dam, which forms a large reservoir within the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park. This area showcases the massive hydroelectric power system alongside breathtaking mountain scenery.
Beyond the impressive dam itself, a major attraction is the Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam, a free-floating balcony offering thrilling views 200 meters above the valley. Visitors also appreciate the scenic Waterfall at Kölnbreinspeicher and various viewpoints like View of the Ankogel Group, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding alpine landscape.
While the Kölnbrein Reservoir is the most prominent, the Malta-Reisseck Power Plant Group includes other reservoirs like Galgenbichl, Gösskar, Grosser Mühldorfer, Kleiner Mühldorfer, Hochalmsee, and Radlsee. These are primarily functional within the hydroelectric system but contribute to the vast and picturesque alpine environment, offering opportunities for remote hiking.
The area offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, from easy walks along the reservoir to challenging mountain tours. You can find routes like the 'Kölnbreinsperre Dam – View of the Ankogel Group loop' for an easy experience, or more demanding trails such as the 'Osnabrücker Hut – Rushing Glacier Stream loop'. For more details, explore the Hiking around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein guide.
Yes, there are easy and family-friendly options. Many visitors enjoy simple walks along the Kölnbrein Reservoir itself. The Kölnbreinsperre Dam is noted as family-friendly, and the 'Kölnbreinsperre Dam – View of the Ankogel Group loop' is an easy hiking route suitable for many. The Airwalk is also a family-friendly viewpoint.
Absolutely. The region provides excellent mountain biking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Kölnbrein Reservoir – Osnabrücker Hut loop' or the 'Kölnbreinsperre Dam – Kölnbrein Reservoir loop'. For a comprehensive overview of trails, check out the MTB Trails around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein guide.
For experienced mountaineers, the Hohe Tauern National Park offers demanding routes. Examples include the 'Kattowitzer Hut – Großer Hafner Summit Ridge loop' or the 'Arlhöhe Summit and Sundial – Kölnbrein Dam loop'. These tours provide significant elevation changes and stunning alpine scenery. More details can be found in the Mountain Hikes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein guide.
The best time to visit is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (roughly May to October), when the Malta Hochalmstraße leading to the dam is open and hiking trails are clear of snow. This period offers the most favorable weather for outdoor activities and enjoying the panoramic views.
Yes, there are amenities available. The region research mentions the VERBUND Energy World Malta exhibition, which likely includes visitor facilities. Additionally, visitor tips for the Waterfall at Kölnbreinspeicher mention a hut where you can pay with cash, indicating some form of refreshment or accommodation is available nearby.
Visitors are consistently impressed by the spectacular scenery and the engineering marvel of the dam. The Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam is a particular highlight for its unique perspective. Many also appreciate the extensive hiking opportunities within the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering everything from easy strolls to challenging mountain expeditions.
While the dam area itself and the Airwalk are designed for visitors, specific information on full accessibility for people with limited mobility is not detailed. The Malta Hochalmstraße provides road access, but the nature of the high-alpine environment and some hiking trails may present challenges. It's advisable to check with local visitor centers for current accessibility information.
The Hohe Tauern National Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash, especially in protected areas and near wildlife. While specific 'dog-friendly walks' are not explicitly detailed in the provided data, many hiking trails are suitable for dogs on a leash. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.


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