Ritzensee near Saalfelden: Year-round leisure paradise
The Ritzensee in Saalfelden am Steinernes Meer is an idyllic spot offering numerous recreational opportunities in both summer and winter. Surrounded by an impressive mountain backdrop, the approximately 6-hectare lake invites you to relax and be active.
- Where is Lake Ritzensee? – In Saalfelden am Steinernen Meer, Salzburger Land.
- What summer activities are possible? – Swimming, sunbathing, hiking, mini golf.
- What winter activities are offered? – Cross-country skiing, ice skating, winter hiking.
- Are there special areas for children and nudists? – Yes, there is a non-swimmer and children's pool, as well as a children's playground. Nude bathing is also possible.
- What dining options are available? – A beach buffet and a restaurant with a sun terrace are available.
- What are the opening hours of the swimming pool? – In May and September from 9am to 6pm, from 1 to 14 June from 9am to 7pm, and from 15 June to 31 August from 9am to 8pm.
- Are there any viewpoints nearby? – Yes, the observation tower at Ritzensee offers a panoramic view of Saalfelden and the surrounding mountains.
Summer activities at Ritzensee
During the summer months, Lake Ritzensee transforms into a natural bathing area with spacious sunbathing lawns, a separate nudist area, and special children's areas. The bathing area is open from May to September, weather permitting. Opening hours vary: In May and September, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., from June 1 to 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and from June 15 to August 31, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
With the Saalfelden Leogang Card Visitors benefit from numerous included services. For example, admission to the Ritzensee natural swimming area is free with the card.
For hikers, there are numerous walking and hiking trails around the lake that lead through the picturesque landscape. A special highlight is the observation tower at Ritzensee. From the lake, a gently ascending path takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the tower, which offers panoramic views of Saalfelden and the surrounding mountains.
A circular hike around Lake Ritzensee takes about 30 minutes.
Winter activities at Ritzensee
In winter, Lake Ritzensee offers a variety of outdoor activities. Once the lake is sufficiently frozen, it transforms into a natural ice skating rink. Thanks to floodlights, skating is possible until 8:30 p.m.
Cross-country skiing enthusiasts can enjoy the Nordic Park at Lake Ritzensee, part of a network of approximately 150 kilometers of trails in the Saalfelden Leogang region. Of particular note is the 1.8-kilometer night trail, which is illuminated daily until 8:30 p.m. and can therefore also be used in the evening.
For winter hikers, the area around Lake Ritzensee offers several well-groomed trails. An easy option is the approximately 2.2-kilometer circular hike directly around the lake, which can be completed in about 36 minutes and offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains.
Infrastructure and gastronomy
Directly on the lake, there's a beach buffet with snacks and drinks, as well as a restaurant with a sun terrace serving regional specialties. A visit in the late afternoon is especially recommended, as the sun sets behind the mountains and bathes the scenery in a warm light. Parking is free, and there are several accommodations in the area if you're planning a longer stay.
- WednesdayDay Off
- Saturday24 hours open
- Sunday24 hours open
- Monday24 hours open
- Tuesday24 hours open
- Wednesday24 hours open
- Thursday24 hours open
- Friday24 hours open
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