Traunkirchen

Save
Share

Details
Reviews
Contact Info

Traunkirchen – Historic town on Lake Traunsee

Traunkirchen is idyllically situated on the west bank of the Traunsee and is known for its impressive parish church with the famous Fisherman's pulpit, the former monastery, and its picturesque location. The town offers a mix of culture, nature, and recreational opportunities that make it a popular destination.

Short info:

Where is Traunkirchen? On the western shore of Lake Traunsee, Upper Austria
What is special about Traunkirchen? The fisherman's pulpit in the parish church, the former monastery and the location directly on the lake
Is there a boat dock? Yes, the Regular boat trips on Lake Traunsee stops in Traunkirchen
What activities are possible? Hiking, boat trips, sightseeing and water sports
What are the famous viewpoints? The Johannesberg offers a beautiful view over the Traunsee
Are there swimming facilities? Yes, there is a public bathing area
What cultural events are there? Corpus Christi procession on the lake, Glöcklerlauf in January, fairytale night in summer

History and sights

Traunkirchen was already settled in Roman times and developed through the Traunkirchen MonasteryFounded around 1020, the monastery became an important religious center. Today, the monastery houses an events center and the Handicraft Museum.

The Traunkirchen Parish Church impresses with its baroque interior. Particularly well-known is the Fisherman's pulpit, carved in the shape of a fishing net and symbolizing the miracle of abundant fishing.

Above the town stands the Johannesberg Chapel, which is located on a rocky outcrop directly on the lake. From here you have one of the most beautiful views of Lake Traunsee.

Activities and leisure opportunities

Boat trip on Lake Traunsee – Traunkirchen is a stop on the liner shipping, which offers tours and connections to other places on the lake.
Hike - The Johannesberg is a short but rewarding walk. More demanding hikers can take the Kleiner Sonnstein (923 m) which offers a spectacular view over Lake Traunsee.
Bathe - The Traunkirchen bathing area offers free access to the lake and a well-kept lawn.

The approximately 30,000 m² recreation area located on the western shore of Lake Traunsee in the Mitterndorf district Bräuwiese is one of the region's most popular bathing and recreational spots due to its pleasant ambiance, good transport links, and beautiful views of the Traunstein Mountains opposite. The free area offers nearby paid parking, free changing rooms, outdoor showers, a soccer field, a children's playground, and a self-service snack bar (Tel. +43 7618 20144). The approximately 230-meter-wide lawn, with a 40- to 50-meter drop, also offers shaded areas dotted with medium-sized trees. The shore consists of two shallow bays with a roughly two-meter-wide pebble beach, where the water gradually deepens, making it particularly suitable for children and non-swimmers. Wheelchair users can easily access the lawn, and there is an accessible restroom.

water sports – Sailing, paddling and kayaking are popular activities on Lake Traunsee.

Cultural events

Corpus Christi procession on the lake – A unique tradition in which believers travel from station to station by boat.
Glöcklerlauf (5 January) – Men dressed in white with artistically illuminated caps parade through the town.
Fairytale Night – A summer lake festival with music, water ski shows and fireworks.
Summer Academy Traunkirchen – Art seminars with renowned artists.

culinary arts

The restaurant “Beletage” in Hotel “Zur Post” offers modern cuisine of the highest quality. Chef Lukas Nagl combines regional ingredients with creative preparations and focuses on innovative flavor combinations.

Accessibility and parking

Traunkirchen is located on the Salzkammergutstraße (B145) and is easily accessible by car and public transport. Salzkammergut Railway Stops directly in town. Parking is available on the lakeshore and in the town center.

Traunkirchen combines history, culture and nature in a small but worth seeing town on Lake Traunsee.