Traunsee: Austria's Deepest Lake

Traunsee, often called the "dream lake" (Traumsee) by those who misspell its name, is located in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria. It is Austria's deepest lake, reaching a depth of 191 meters, and the second largest in Upper Austria. The lake's name comes from the River Traun, which flows through it.Settlements around Traunsee date back to the 5th century. The Romans called it "Lacus Felix," meaning "happy lake". The lake was first mentioned in 909 AD as "Trunseo".The lake is surrounded by diverse landscapes, including the steep cliffs of the Traunstein mountain range on its eastern shore and the rolling, forested hills to the west. The Traunstein, a prominent mountain, stands at 1,691 meters.Traunsee is known for its excellent water quality, thanks to low nutrient levels that limit algae growth and ensure clear waters. The lake is a popular destination for swimming, sailing, surfing, diving, and other water sports. Boat tours, including those on the historic paddle steamer Gisela, offer scenic views and insights into the region's history. Charming towns dot the shoreline, including Gmunden, known for its ceramics and Schloss Ort, a castle on a small island. Ebensee lies at the southern end of the lake, while Altmünster and Traunkirchen offer their own unique attractions.The area offers diverse activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and exploring local culture. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular in nearby areas like Feuerkogel and Kasberg.