Background

Traunsee: Austria's Deepest Lake

Discover Austria's deepest lake: Traunsee offers stunning scenery, charming towns, and endless outdoor adventures in the heart of Salzkammergut.

4.8

Traunsee, the deepest lake in Austria, is a stunning body of water nestled in the Salzkammergut region. Surrounded by picturesque towns, imposing mountains like the Traunstein, and lush forests, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. The lake offers a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and a variety of activities, making it a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Traunsee

  • AT

Local tips

  • Take a boat trip on the historic paddle steamer Gisela for stunning views of the lake and mountains.
  • Hike the Traunstein mountain for panoramic vistas of the Salzkammergut region.
  • Visit Gmunden's ceramics factory to see the creation of the town's famous pottery.
  • Explore Schloss Ort, a picturesque castle on a small island accessible by a wooden bridge.
  • Enjoy swimming, sailing, or windsurfing in the crystal-clear waters of Traunsee.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gmunden train station, take the Traunseetram to the 'Gmunden Seebahnhof' stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to the lake. A single tram ride costs around €2-3.

  • Ferry

    A regular ferry service operates on Traunsee, connecting towns and villages around the lake. A single trip between two towns typically costs between €8 and €15, depending on the distance. Check the Traunseeschifffahrt Eder website for the current timetable and prices.

  • Car

    Paid parking is available near Traunsee in Gmunden. Parking lots include Schiffslände 18 and Traunseegarage. Parking costs up to €8 per day. Free parking may be found further away on the 'hill,' but it requires some walking.

  • Salzkammergut Shuttle Service

    The Salzkammergut Shuttle Service operates on several routes around Traunsee. A standard fare is €6 per person per journey. Climate ticket holders travel at half price. Call +43 50 422 422 to book.

Unlock the Best of Traunsee

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Traunsee

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.

Popular Experiences near Traunsee

Popular Hotels near Traunsee

Select Currency