Spiegelsee: The magical lake with a view of the Dachstein massif
The Spiegelsee, high above Schladming Located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the lake impresses with its mirror-smooth surface, which perfectly reflects the majestic Dachstein massif. This idyllic mountain lake, accessible via a scenic hike, is a popular photo subject and a place of peace in the midst of nature. Surrounded by lush alpine meadows and impressive peaks, the Spiegelsee invites you to take an unforgettable break in the alpine mountains.
Short info:
- What is the Mirror Lake? A picturesque mountain lake in the Schladming-Dachstein region.
- Why is it called that? On windless days, the striking trio of the Dachstein is reflected in the middle Gasselsee, which is actually called the Spiegelsee.
- What makes it special? With crystal-clear water and surrounding mountain scenery, the Spiegelsee invites you to take a relaxing break in nature.
- How do you get there? valley station Preunegg Jet. Then take the cable car up. Then hike for about 45 minutes.
- entrance fee? Access to the Spiegelsee is free, as is parking at the valley station. Here you will find the Prices for the gondola ride. This is in summer with the Sommercard
- Refreshment options? Gasselhöh Hutat the mountain station
The Mirror Lake in general
The Spiegelsee, actually Mittlerer Gasselsee in the Schladminger Tauern, got its name from its impressive reflection of the Dachstein massif. This mountain lake is located at 1,860 meters south of the Reiteralm near Schladming in Styria and is one of the three lakes below the 2,133 meter high Schober.
The Schladminger Tauern, part of the Niedere Tauern, consist of gneiss, mica schist and phyllite, which often makes the mountain flanks rugged and creates numerous mountain lakes in the cirques. The shallow Spiegelsee is particularly characterized by its perfect view of the Dachstein massif, which on windless days makes for a impressive reflection on the water surface provides.
The Spiegelsee is not only popular due to its geological features, but also as a photo opportunity. Its flat structure makes it susceptible to drying out in hot, dry summers. A sign on the shore reminds us that swimming in the lake is not allowed in order to protect nature and other visitors. The Spiegelsee was even voted the most beautiful place in Austria by the ORF.
Tip: Before you go hiking in the fall, make sure you check whether there is water in the lake. Unfortunately, that was not the case for us. Nevertheless, we can the hike highly recommend. Visit the lake on a calm day to see the perfect reflection.
How do I get to the Mirror Lake?
Arrival and parking
With public transport: On Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays there is a hiking bus connection from Ramsau am Dachstein to the valley station of the Preunegg-Jet gondola. Sommercard the ride is free.
cars: Turn off the Ennstal federal road at Pichl and drive up the Preuneggstraße to the valley station of the Preunegg-Jet gondola. Alternatively, take the Reiteralmstraße (toll road) to the Eiskarhütte, Reiteralmhütte and Gasselhöh'-Hütte.
Shortest route to the lake
From the car park at the Gasselhöh' hut, follow path no. 66 to the lake. Walking time: 45 minutes, altitude difference: 284 m.
directions
From the mountain station of the Preunegg Jet, continue on trail no. 66, past the Untersee and along the rocky and steep path to the Spiegelsee at an altitude of 1,860 meters. The lake offers a spectacular view of the Dachstein massif and is surrounded by hiking trails to other peaks in the region. The return journey to the Reiteralm takes about 45 minutes.
You can also find our article here: Lake hike: from Reiteralm to Spiegelsee and UnterseeOn this hike we go up to the Spiegelsee. On the way back we pass the Untersee and other lakes. This part of the hike is also known as the "Stille Wasser".
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