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Altausseer See: The Dark Blue Inkwell

Discover Altausseer See: A pristine alpine lake in Austria's Salzkammergut, offering crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and tranquil escapes.

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Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Altausseer See is a pristine lake known for its crystal-clear, dark blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop. A haven for nature lovers, it offers hiking, swimming, boating, and a tranquil escape from the crowds.

A brief summary to Altausseer See

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Local tips

  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
  • Take the solar-powered boat to Seewiese for lunch with a view at the Jagdhaus Seewiese restaurant.
  • Explore the nearby Salzwelten Altaussee salt mine for a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
  • Walk the 7.5km path around the lake for ever-changing perspectives of the surrounding mountains.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bad Aussee train station, take bus 955 towards Altaussee. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. Get off at the 'Altaussee Kurhaus' stop. From there, it's a pleasant 500-meter walk to the lake. Bus fare is approximately €3-€5.

  • Driving

    From Altaussee town center, follow the signs towards Altausseer See. Several parking lots are available near the lake. Parking at the Zentrum parking lot costs around €2 for 2 hours or €9 for the whole day. Be aware that parking spaces are limited, especially during peak season, so arrive early.

  • Ferry

    During the warmer months, a solar-powered ferry operates on Altausseer See, connecting various points around the lake. You can board the ferry at the Madlmaier landing stage (Fischerndorf 158) or the Seewiese landing stage. A round trip costs approximately €10, offering a scenic and convenient way to explore the lake.

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Discover more about Altausseer See

Altausseer See, often called the "dark blue inkwell" due to its mesmerizing color, is a jewel of the Styrian Salzkammergut region. Located at the foot of the imposing Loser Mountain, the lake is surrounded by a dramatic landscape of towering peaks, including the Dachstein glacier, Trisselwand, and Tressenstein. For centuries, Altausseer See has inspired artists, writers, and musicians. The lake's beauty has also attracted the film industry, with parts of the James Bond movie 'Spectre' filmed here. The nearby Altaussee Salt Mine has a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages. During World War II, the mine was used to store valuable art treasures looted by the Nazis, later rescued in a daring operation. Today, Altausseer See is a popular destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. A well-maintained, mostly flat 7.5km path encircles the lake, perfect for leisurely strolls and hikes. Swimming in the lake's clean, cold water is a refreshing experience, and boat rides offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also a popular spot for paddleboarding and other water sports.

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