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Krottensee: A Glacial Relic in Gmunden

Discover Krottensee, a tranquil lake in Gmunden, Austria, formed during the ice age and surrounded by a unique moorland forest.

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Krottensee is a small lake near Gmunden, Austria, formed as a 'dead ice hole' during the last ice age. Surrounded by moorland forest, it offers a tranquil recreational area with unique geological and biological significance.

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A brief summary to Krottensee

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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Gmunden, AT
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Krottensee.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Explore the surrounding moorland forest for a chance to see a diverse range of mushroom species.
Visit nearby Cumberland Castle for a historical complement to your nature walk at Krottensee.
Enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.

Discover more about Krottensee

Krottensee, nestled in the Schlagen district of Gmunden, is a serene lake with a fascinating history. This small, clear-water lake is a relic of the last ice age, formed when a massive glacier retreated and left behind a 'dead ice hole'. These collapses from the ice age created the lake that exists today.The lake's surrounding moorland forest contributes to its ecological importance, with unique silt stocks and a diverse ecosystem. Over 250 mushroom species have been recorded in the moorland around the lake. Krottensee is considered a swamp lake because of its location inside the forest. The lake stretches approximately 600 meters in length and 260 meters in width.Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Krottensee. The lake is easily accessible and provides a refreshing escape. It's a popular spot for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.

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    Getting There

    Walking

    From Cumberland Castle, Krottensee is within easy walking distance. Exit the castle grounds and follow the signs for Krottensee. The walk is short, approximately 5-10 minutes, and offers scenic views of the surrounding area. No costs are associated with walking.

    Public Transport

    From Gmunden town center, take the Traunseetram (Line 4) towards Engelhof. Get off at the 'Gmunden Keramik/Kraftwerkgasse' stop. From there, you can walk to Krottensee in about 15-20 minutes following Krottenseestraße. A single tram fare within Gmunden is approximately €2-3. Check the Stern & Hafferl website for current schedules and fares.

    Taxi/Ride-share

    From Gmunden town center, a taxi or ride-share to Krottensee will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €15-€25. Parking is available near the lake.

    A brief summary to Krottensee

    Use Krottensee as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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