Achensee

Achensee: Tyrol's largest lake in the middle of the Alps

Lake Achensee, also known as the "Sea of Tyrol", is the largest lake in the state and offers a breathtaking combination of alpine mountains and crystal-clear water. Surrounded by the imposing Karwendel and Rofan mountains, Lake Achensee attracts nature lovers, hikers, water sports enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike. Whether swimming, sailing and hiking in summer or cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter - Lake Achensee offers numerous activities all year round in an impressive setting.

Short info:

• Where is Lake Achensee? In Tyrol, between the Karwendel and Rofan mountains.
• How do you get there? By car via the A12 Inntal motorway or by train to Jenbach, then continue by bus or the historic Achensee railway.
• Size: 9.4 km², length of 9 km.
• Best time to visit: Spring to autumn, winter for winter sports.

Lake Achensee: A paradise for nature lovers and active holidaymakers

Lake Achensee is known for its stunning location in the middle of the Tyrolean Alps. With its turquoise water, which shimmers in various shades of blue, especially on sunny days, the lake offers a picturesque backdrop that is ideal for outdoor activities. Whether you want to spend a relaxing day on the shore or are looking for a sporting challenge - Lake Achensee has something for everyone.

hiking and mountaineering

The region around Lake Achensee offers numerous hiking trails for every level. Particularly popular are hikes in the Karwendel Mountains, which rises directly on the western shore of the lake. There are both easy circular trails for leisurely walks and challenging mountain tours that lead to the peaks of the surrounding mountains and offer breathtaking views of Lake Achensee and the surrounding valleys.

A particularly beautiful hiking trail is the Panoramaweg along the eastern shore. It leads through forests and alpine meadows and offers wonderful views of the Achensee. For experienced hikers, a tour to the Rofan Mountains, which is particularly related to the Rofan cable car is easily accessible. Once you reach the top, a spectacular view of Lake Achensee and the surrounding peaks awaits you.

cable cars around Lake Achensee

The surrounding mountain railways make it particularly easy to reach the spectacular heights of the Tyrolean Alps.

• Rofan cable car (Maurach): This cable car takes you from Maurach to the Rofan Mountains, from where you have a magnificent panoramic view over the Achensee and the Karwendel Mountains. Once you reach the top, numerous hiking and climbing routes await you, as well as a special highlight: the Adlerhorst, an observation deck in the shape of a giant eagle from which you can overlook the lake and the mountains.

• Karwendel mountain railway (Pertisau): The Karwendel mountain railway in Pertisau takes you directly to the heart of the Karwendel MountainsHere begins the Bärenkopf, a popular hiking trail that rewards you with spectacular views of Lake Achensee and the Inn Valley. This area is perfect for long hikes or mountain bike tours.

Both cable cars operate all year round and also provide access to the region’s ski areas in winter.

The towns on Lake Achensee

There are three picturesque main towns around Lake Achensee, which serve as starting points for numerous activities and excursions.

• Maurach: The town of Maurach on the southern shore of Lake Achensee is ideal for hikes and excursions to the Rofan MountainsThe Rofan cable car also starts here. Maurach also offers numerous hotels, restaurants and cultural attractions such as the Notburga Museum.

• Pertisau: Pertisau is located on the western shore of the lake and is known for its beautiful location directly on the Karwendel MountainsPertisau is ideal for hikers and cross-country skiers. Many of the region's most beautiful hiking trails start from here. The town is also the starting point for trips on the Achenseebahn, a historic cog railway that leads to the Inn Valley.

• Achenkirch: Achenkirch on the northern shore of Lake Achensee is a quieter place, ideal for families and nature lovers. Here you will find the Christlum ski area, which is a particular highlight in winter. In summer, Achenkirch offers access to idyllic hiking trails and the most beautiful bathing spots on the lake.

bathing areas 

The Achensee offers many opportunities for Swimming and Relaxing along its banks. The main bathing areas are:

• Strandbad Pertisau: This large bathing area on the western shore offers sunbathing lawns, access to the clear waters of Lake Achensee and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There is also a café and sanitary facilities.

• Buchau bathing area: Near Maurach lies the Buchau bathing area, a family-friendly area with a shallow shoreline. It is a great place to swim, have a picnic and enjoy the sun.

• Achenkirch bathing area: On the northern shore of Lake Achensee you will find the quiet bathing area in Achenkirch, which is perfect for visitors looking for peace and relaxation. This place is less crowded and offers an idyllic atmosphere.

The water quality at Lake Achensee is excellent, and on hot summer days a dip in the cool water is a welcome refreshment.

water sports 

In summer, Lake Achensee is a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts. Due to its size and constant winds, the lake is particularly popular with sailors and surfers popular. Also stand-up paddling and kayaking are popular leisure activities on the crystal-clear water. Lake Achensee offers ideal conditions not only for sports enthusiasts, but also for those seeking relaxation: there are numerous lidos along the shore that invite you to relax and swim.

Winter sports around Lake Achensee

In winter, the region around Lake Achensee turns into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. The cross-country ski trails, which lead through the snowy landscape and are ideal for both beginners and advanced cross-country skiers. snowshoe hikes and winter hiking trails invite you to enjoy the winter peace of the Alps.

The region also offers smaller ski resorts such as Christlum ski area in Achenkirch, which are perfect for families or leisurely days skiing. The Achensee is therefore also an ideal destination for sporting activities and relaxation in winter.

Tips for your visit 

Lake Achensee is worth a visit at any time of year. A boat trip across the lake is particularly recommended in summer, as it offers a unique view of the surrounding mountains. For those interested in culture, a visit to the Notburga Museum in Maurach, which is dedicated to Saint Notburga, the patron saint of the Tyroleans.