Traunsee – Austria’s deepest lake
Lake Traunsee, also known as "Lacus Felix" (from Roman times for "Happy Lake"), is Austria's deepest lake, measuring 12 kilometers long, 3 kilometers wide, and 191 meters deep. It is located in the Upper Austrian Salzkammergut region and is surrounded by imposing mountains such as the Traunstein. Due to its excellent water quality, numerous recreational opportunities, and idyllic lakeside villages, it is a popular destination for bathers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Short info:
- Where is he? Traunsee, Upper Austria, Salzkammergut
- Is Lake Traunsee a swimming lake? Yes, there are several lidos and freely accessible swimming areas.
- How long does it take to walk around Lake Traunsee? A complete walk around the lake takes several days, as the distance is about 68 kilometers.
- Can you drive around Lake Traunsee by car? No, the eastern shore is not fully accessible by road.
- Which cities are located on the lake? Gmunden, Altmünster, Traunkirchen, Ebensee.
- Where can you swim? Several beaches and swimming areas, see section below.
- Average water temperature in summer? 18 °C, in August up to 21 °C.
- What water sports are possible? Sailing, surfing, kiting, diving, fishing, boating.
- What can you do at Lake Traunsee? See section below.
Is Lake Traunsee a swimming lake?
Yes, Lake Traunsee is ideal for swimming. Despite its depth, the water remains relatively cool even in summer. The average water temperature is around 18°C during the summer season, and can reach up to 21°C in August.
Where can you swim?
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Gmunden:
- Gmunden beach – Large lawn, jetties and kiosk.
- Toscanapark bathing area – Freely accessible, with flat entry.
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Altmünster:
- Altmünster lido – Family-friendly with playground and restaurant.
- Bräuwiese – Public lawn with direct lake access.
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- Traunkirchen bathing area – Small, idyllic natural bathing area.
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Ebensee:
- Rindbach Leisure Center – Beach with volleyball court.
- Langbathseen – Two idyllic mountain lakes nearby, which are also ideal for swimming.
How long does it take to walk around Lake Traunsee?
A complete circumnavigation of the lake on foot is a challenge. The total length is approximately 68 kilometers, so a complete circumnavigation takes several days. Alternatively, there are shorter hikes along the lakeshore or the option of traveling sections by boat.
Can you drive around Lake Traunsee by car?
No, a complete circuit by car is not possible. On the west bank, the B145 runs from Gmunden to Ebensee and offers a continuous road connection. The eastern shore is only accessible as far as the town of Hoisen; after that, there is no continuous road connection. Drivers must either turn around or choose an alternative route.
Which cities are located on the lake?
Gmunden is the largest city on the lake and is known for the Ort Castle as well as Gmunden ceramics. Altmünster offers a beautiful lakeside promenade, while Traunkirchen With its historic church and Johannesberg mountain, it is a popular tourist destination. Ebensee lies on the southern shore of the lake and is the starting point for tours to the Feuerkogel.
Hiking and cycling around Lake Traunsee
The lake is surrounded by numerous hiking and cycling trails. Miesweg am Traunstein is a popular trail directly on the water, while the Treetop Walk Gmunden offers an easy hike with beautiful views. For cyclists, there is the Traunsee tour, which partly runs on the main road. An alternative is the Salzkammergut Cycle Route, which also passes the Traunsee.
Here you can find our report on Hike around the Traunstein on Lake Traunsee.
Water sports, fishing and boating
Lake Traunsee is ideal for numerous water sports. Particularly popular are Sailing, surfing and kiting, as the lake's location often offers stable winds. Several sailing clubs and boat rentals offer the opportunity to rent boats or take lessons.
For diver The lake is also interesting because of its depth and clarity, which offer impressive underwater landscapes. There are several diving spots, including steep walls and wrecks.
angler Lake Traunsee boasts a wide variety of species. Whitefish, Arctic char, and pike are particularly popular. A fishing license is required, which can be obtained from local providers.
What can you do at Lake Traunsee?
- Take a boat trip on Lake Traunsee – Various lines run between the towns on the lake and offer a great opportunity to experience the lake from the water.
- Take the tram - The Traunsee tram connects Gmunden with Vorchdorf and partly runs directly along the water.
- Munch on a skewered fish – Several restaurants and fishing huts serve freshly grilled fish straight from the lake.
- Stroll along the esplanade and enjoy ice cream – Especially in Gmunden and Altmünster there are beautiful riverside promenades with cafés and ice cream parlors.
- Experience Lake Traunsee from a bird's eye view – The Grünberg in Gmunden offers a fantastic view of the lake.
- Ride the summer toboggan run on the Grünberg – A highlight for families and adventure seekers.
Lake Traunsee not only offers beautiful bathing spots, but also numerous leisure activities – from relaxing walks to action-packed water sports.
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