Salzkammergut Lakes: Austria's Pristine Paradise

Discover the enchanting Salzkammergut Lakes in Austria, where pristine waters, stunning mountains, and charming villages create an unforgettable travel experience.

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Salzkammergut Lakes

The Salzkammergut Lakes region in Austria is a breathtaking landscape dotted with shimmering lakes, majestic mountains, and charming villages. This stunning area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking both relaxation and adventure. One of the highlights of the Salzkammergut region is Lake Hallstatt, known for its crystal-clear waters and the picturesque village of Hallstatt, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. The village itself is a delightful place to wander, with its narrow streets, traditional alpine houses, and historic salt mines. Another gem in this region is Lake Wolfgang, which offers a variety of water sports, from sailing to kayaking. The lakeside town of St. Wolfgang is famous for its beautiful church and the Schafberg Railway, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, Lake Attersee, the largest lake in the Salzkammergut, is a paradise for divers and swimmers, with its clear waters and scenic surroundings. For those who enjoy hiking and biking, the Salzkammergut region offers numerous trails that wind through lush forests and along pristine lakeshores. The Dachstein Mountains provide more challenging routes and offer stunning vistas from their peaks. Winter visitors can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the nearby resorts. The Salzkammergut Lakes region is not just about natural beauty; it is also rich in history and culture. Many of the villages host traditional festivals, where you can experience local music, dance, and cuisine. The area is also known for its wellness resorts and spas, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Local tips in Salzkammergut Lakes

Visit in the summer for the best weather and opportunities for water activities.
Take a boat tour on Lake Hallstatt to fully appreciate its beauty.
Explore the salt mines in Hallstatt for a unique historical experience.
Use the Schafberg Railway in St. Wolfgang for breathtaking views.
Try local dishes like fresh fish from the lakes at traditional restaurants.
Book accommodations early, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic trails around the lakes.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the mountainous terrain.

File:Hallstatt - Zentrum .JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Datei:St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut - Ortsansicht.JPG – Wikipedia

File:Ebensee am Traunsee.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Schafberg Bahn Austria July 2011 - 02 (5959138926).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Dachstein Rieseneishöhle Parzifaldom 20210918.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Datei:Bad Ischl - Stadtmuseum, ehem. Hotel Austria.jpg – Wikipedia

File:Mondsee-lake.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Traunkirchen.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Salzkammergut Lakes?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Wolfgangsee Lake

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wolfgangsee Lake, a stunning alpine destination perfect for outdoor adventures and serene relaxation in Austria.

Hallstätter See

Discover Hallstätter See, Austria's stunning lake surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene relaxation.

Gosauseen

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gosauseen, a serene lake destination in the Austrian Alps, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Traunsee

Discover the stunning beauty of Traunsee, Austria's enchanting lake surrounded by majestic mountains and charming villages.

Fuschlsee

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fuschlsee, a hidden alpine gem in Austria perfect for outdoor adventures and serene relaxation.

Altausseer See

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Altausseer See, an enchanting alpine lake in Austria, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Schiederweiher

Discover the tranquil beauty of Schiederweiher, an alpine lake in Hinterstoder, Austria, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests.

Mondsee

Experience the tranquil beauty of Mondsee, a serene lake in Austria perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

Kreuzstein Wasserfall

Discover the breathtaking Kreuzstein Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in Austria's Salzkammergut region, perfect for hiking and relaxation.

Hintersee

Discover the natural beauty and serenity of Hintersee, a stunning alpine lake in Austria perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Wiestalstausee

Discover the tranquil beauty of Wiestalstausee, an enchanting lake near Salzburg, perfect for swimming, hiking, and enjoying nature's splendor.

Lake view

Discover the breathtaking tranquility of Lake View in Sankt Lorenz, Austria – a stunning alpine retreat perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Laudachsee

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Laudachsee, an idyllic alpine lake in Austria, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Obertrumer See

Explore the stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Obertrumer See, Austria's serene lake perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Gosaulacke

Discover the serene beauty of Gosaulacke, an enchanting lake in Austria offering breathtaking landscapes, tranquil waters, and a perfect escape into nature.

Unmissable attractions to see

Salzburg Museum

Discover the heart of Salzburg's history and culture at the Salzburg Museum, where art and heritage come to life in an unforgettable experience.

Sporer Likör- & Punschmanufaktur

Discover the rich flavors of Austria at Sporer Likör- & Punschmanufaktur, a charming liqueur shop and bar in the heart of Salzburg.

Badesee Wengsee

Experience the tranquility of Badesee Wengsee, a beautiful swimming lake in Weng, perfect for relaxation, family fun, and enjoying nature's beauty.

Kreuzstein Wasserfall

Experience the enchanting beauty of Kreuzstein Wasserfall in Austria's Salzkammergut region, a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Freizeitanlage Harrbergsee

Discover the serene beauty of Freizeitanlage Harrbergsee, a perfect Alpine getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Seeblick

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Seeblick in Traunkirchen, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.

Ochsenkreuz

Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil ambiance of Ochsenkreuz by Wolfgangsee, Austria's hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.

Seepark Altaussee

Experience the beauty of nature at Seepark Altaussee, a serene park perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities in Fischerndorf, Austria.

Lake view

Discover the serene beauty of Lake View in St. Lorenz, Austria, where stunning landscapes meet tranquil waters for a perfect outdoor escape.

Bluntau Wasserfall

Experience the stunning beauty of Bluntau Wasserfall in Golling an der Salzach, a must-visit natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

See Alpaka - Gehege

Experience the charm of alpacas at See Alpaka - Gehege in Weyregg am Attersee, where nature meets adventure in a serene setting.

Fotostopp

Discover breathtaking views and serene beauty at Fotostopp, a top tourist attraction in Austria perfect for photography and relaxation.

White Horse water front

Experience the enchanting beauty of White Horse Waterfront in St. Wolfgang, a serene escape into nature's embrace with breathtaking lake and mountain views.

Aussichtspunkt

Experience the stunning views of Lake Attersee and the majestic mountains at Aussichtspunkt, a scenic gem in Austria's breathtaking landscape.

Essential places to dine

Welterbe-Wirtshaus Steegwirt

Discover authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning views at Welterbe-Wirtshaus Steegwirt in Bad Goisern am Hallstättersee.

Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rössl

Discover culinary excellence and breathtaking views at Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rössl in St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut.

Dorf-Alm zu St. Wolfgang

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Dorf-Alm zu St. Wolfgang.

Bräugasthof

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Bräugasthof by Hallstatt Lake—where delicious flavors meet breathtaking alpine views.

Gasthof See

Experience exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking lakeside views at Gasthof See - a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Uferwirt Seeraunzn

Discover Uferwirt Seeraunzn: A charming restaurant by Obersee lake offering delicious cuisine and stunning views in Bad Goisern am Hallstättersee.

PAUL der Wirt

Experience authentic Austrian breakfast and brunch at PAUL der Wirt in St. Wolfgang with breathtaking views of Lake Wolfgang.

Rudolfsturm

Discover Rudolfsturm: An enchanting restaurant in Hallstatt serving authentic Austrian cuisine with breathtaking mountain views.

Steckerlfisch in Abersee

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Steckerlfisch in Abersee - where tradition meets breathtaking lakeside views.

Restaurant Hubertuskeller

Discover the charm of Restaurant Hubertuskeller in St Wolfgang - savor traditional Austrian cuisine with stunning lake views.

Seecafé Obertraun

Experience delightful dining with breathtaking lake views at Seecafé Obertraun – your gateway to outdoor adventures in Austria.

Genussufer

Discover culinary excellence at Genussufer with stunning views of Lake Attersee in Unterach am Attersee.

Landhaus zu Appesbach

Discover luxury at Landhaus zu Appesbach: where breathtaking lake views meet exquisite dining in Austria's scenic Salzkammergut.

Restaurant am See

Experience exquisite Austrian cuisine with stunning lake views at Restaurant am See in Hallstatt.

Seerestaurant Im Weissen Rössl

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning lake views at Seerestaurant Im Weissen Rössl in St. Wolfgang.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

PlusCity

Explore PlusCity in Pasching, a vibrant shopping mall offering a mix of retail therapy and culinary delights for every tourist.

Salzwelten Hallstatt

Explore the ancient salt mine of Salzwelten Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage gem with stunning underground vistas and rich historical significance.

Dachstein Krippenstein

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Dachstein Krippenstein, Austria's premier ski resort, perfect for winter sports and stunning mountain views.

WEBERZEILE

Explore Weberzeile Shopping Mall - a vibrant retail haven in Ried im Innkreis, offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

Kaffeewerkstatt

Discover the charm of Kaffeewerkstatt in St. Wolfgang, where delightful breakfasts and unique gifts await in a cozy café setting.

Lake camping Appesbach

Embrace the beauty of nature at Lake Camping Appesbach, a serene campground offering stunning lake views, outdoor adventures, and delightful dining.

SPAR Hechenblaickner St. Gilgen

Explore the flavors of St. Gilgen at SPAR Hechenblaickner, your go-to supermarket for fresh produce and local specialties.

Red Bull World Salzburg

Discover the ultimate sports memorabilia experience at Red Bull World Salzburg, where adventure and passion for sports come alive.

SPAR Hieke Unterach

Explore SPAR Hieke Unterach for fresh local produce and unique Austrian goods in the heart of Unterach am Attersee.

BILLA

Discover BILLA in Attersee: A supermarket offering fresh local produce, delightful snacks, and essential groceries in a charming setting.

Schirmbar Gall

Experience the enchanting blend of coffee culture and lakeside charm at Schirmbar Gall in Attersee am Attersee.

Primushäusl Edelbrände

Experience the finest Austrian schnapps at Primushäusl Edelbrände, where tradition meets artisanal craftsmanship in every sip.

Salzkammergut Touristik GmbH

Discover Salzkammergut's picturesque landscapes and cultural gems with convenient bicycle rentals, perfect for every cycling enthusiast.

KristallSalzWelt Salzkammergut

Explore the enchanting KristallSalzWelt Salzkammergut, where exquisite salt products and stunning crystals await in the heart of Austria's scenic Attergau region.

Dachsteinsport Janu

Discover the best sporting goods and ski rentals at Dachsteinsport Janu in Hallstatt, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures in the Austrian Alps.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Kaffeewerkstatt

Discover the cozy charm of Kaffeewerkstatt in St. Wolfgang, where delicious coffee and delightful gifts await in a stunning alpine setting.

Café- Restaurant Zenz'n Stub'n

Discover the flavors of Austria at Café-Restaurant Zenz'n Stub'n, a cozy gem near Attersee, perfect for travelers seeking authentic cuisine and stunning views.

Uferwirt Seeraunzn

Discover the flavors of Austria at Uferwirt Seeraunzn, where culinary delights meet stunning lakeside views in Bad Goisern.

PAUL der Wirt

Discover the charm of Austrian cuisine at PAUL der Wirt in St. Wolfgang - a perfect breakfast and brunch destination surrounded by stunning scenery.

Schirmbar Hallstatt (Umbrella Bar Hallstatt)

Discover Schirmbar Hallstatt: a charming restaurant offering traditional Austrian cuisine with breathtaking views of the stunning Hallstatt landscape.

Steckerlfisch in Abersee

Experience the authentic taste of Austria with delicious Steckerlfisch at Abersee, set against the stunning backdrop of Wolfgangsee.

Tapaletta

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Tapaletta, a top-rated tapas bar in Altmünster, offering authentic dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

Restaurant Hubertuskeller

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine in a stunning setting at Restaurant Hubertuskeller in St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut.

Jausenstation Aschinger

Experience the perfect blend of traditional Austrian cuisine and stunning views at Jausenstation Aschinger in Ried.

Seelounge Gmunden

Discover the beauty of Lake Traunsee at Seelounge Gmunden, a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant atmosphere.

Seerestaurant Im Weissen Rössl

Discover the exquisite flavors of Austrian cuisine at Seerestaurant Im Weissen Rössl, overlooking the stunning Wolfgangsee.

Schirmbar Gall

Experience the perfect blend of coffee and bar culture at Schirmbar Gall, a serene lakeside gem in Attersee, Austria.

Die Strandung

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Die Strandung, a lakeside bar and cocktail haven in Altmünster, Austria.

dSpeis Genussaufnahmestube

Experience the finest of Austrian cuisine at dSpeis Genussaufnahmestube in St. Wolfgang, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Schmankerlstubn

Discover the authentic taste of Austrian cuisine in the charming atmosphere of Schmankerlstubn, a must-visit restaurant in St. Wolfgang.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Salzkammergut Lakes

Discover Salzkammergut Lakes with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Salzkammergut Lakes

- HelloServus
  [Zehr-voos]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [Owf Vee-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bit-teh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [Vee gayts]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [Goot. Oond deer]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [Shpre-khen zee Eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [Ikh ha-teh ge-rneh dee Shpy-zeh-kahr-teh, bit-teh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ikh es-se kine Flish]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [Ikh merkhte bit-teh tsah-len]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-feh]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay vekh]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roo-fen zee dee Po-lee-tsay]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roo-fen zee i-nen ahrts]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [Ikh ha-be mikh feh-rikt]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ikh been krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [Ikh merkhte kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue mich nur um
  [Ikh shau-eh mikh noor oom]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [Vee feel koh-stet das]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Das eest tso toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kern-en zee den Price zehn-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpet ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (10) Uhr
  [Halb (10) oor]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nah-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Ges-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [Iyns]
- 2Zwei
  [Tsvai]
- 3Drei
  [Drigh]
- 4Vier
  [Feer]
- 5Fünf
  [Fewn-f]
- 6Sechs
  [Zeks]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Akh-t]
- 9Neun
  [Noy-n]
- 10Zehn
  [Tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [Vo ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [Vas ist dee Ah-dreh-say]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir das zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [Kern-en zee meer das tsai-gen (ouf dehr kar-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vann kommt dehr nekhs-teh (Boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [I-nuh Fahr-kahr-teh (nakh)]

History of Salzkammergut Lakes

The Salzkammergut region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds in the area. The Hallstatt culture, which dates back to the early Iron Age (around 800 to 450 BC), is named after the village of Hallstatt in the region. This period is marked by significant advancements in metalworking and salt mining, with many artifacts discovered in local salt mines.
The Romans arrived in the Salzkammergut region around 15 BC. They recognized the value of the area's natural resources, particularly salt, and developed infrastructure to support salt mining. The region was part of the Roman province of Noricum, and remnants of Roman settlements and roads can still be found throughout the area.
During the Middle Ages, the Salzkammergut region became a crucial center for the salt trade in Europe. The town of Hallstatt and other nearby settlements thrived due to their salt mines. Salt, often referred to as 'white gold,' was a valuable commodity and played a significant role in the region's economy. Many of the region's historic buildings and churches were funded by the wealth generated from salt mining.
The Salzkammergut region came under the control of the Habsburg dynasty in the 13th century. The Habsburgs recognized the strategic and economic importance of the area and developed it further. Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife, Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), frequently visited the region, particularly their summer residence at Bad Ischl. This royal patronage boosted the region's popularity and contributed to its development as a tourist destination.
During World War II, the Salzkammergut region was affected by the broader conflict in Europe. The area saw some military activity, and its remote locations were used for various purposes, including as hideaways for valuable art and cultural artifacts. After the war, the region continued to recover and rebuild, eventually reclaiming its status as a popular tourist destination thanks to its natural beauty and historical significance.
In 1997, the Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut region was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the area's unique cultural and natural heritage, including its rich history of salt mining, its picturesque landscapes, and its well-preserved historic towns. The UNESCO status has helped to further promote and preserve the region's cultural and historical legacy.

Salzkammergut Lakes Essentials

Salzkammergut Lakes region is located in Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg. The nearest major airport is Salzburg Airport (SZG), approximately 35 kilometers from Bad Ischl, a central point in Salzkammergut. From Salzburg, you can take a train or bus to various towns within the Salzkammergut region. Vienna International Airport (VIE) is another option, about 250 kilometers away, with direct train connections to the region. Car rentals are also available at both airports for those who prefer to drive.
The Salzkammergut Lakes region is well-connected by public transport, including trains and buses. ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) operates frequent train services to key towns like Bad Ischl, Hallstatt, and Gmunden. Local buses connect smaller villages and tourist attractions. Cycling is popular in the region, with numerous bike rental shops available. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to visit remote areas.
The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, rural areas, and public transport. ATMs are readily available in towns and villages throughout the Salzkammergut region.
The Salzkammergut Lakes region is generally very safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be observed. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in larger towns like Bad Ischl and Gmunden. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies (Apotheke) are available in most towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as weather can change rapidly. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t occupy seats reserved for the elderly or disabled. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Guten Tag' (Good Day) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t leave a tip on the table; instead, hand it directly to your server.
To experience Salzkammergut Lakes like a local, consider visiting during off-peak seasons to avoid crowds. Explore lesser-known lakes like Grundlsee and Gosausee for a more tranquil experience. Engage with locals in small towns and markets to learn about regional traditions and cuisine. Don't miss the chance to attend local festivals, such as Narzissenfest in spring, to get a taste of local culture.

Salzkammergut Lakes: Austria's Pristine Paradise

Local tips in Salzkammergut Lakes