Background

Die Sage vom Riesen Erla und der Nixe vom Laudachsee

Explore the mythical love story of a giant and a water nymph at the serene Laudachsee in the Austrian Alps. A hiker's paradise!

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Discover the enchanting tale of the giant Erla and the water nymph of Laudachsee, a captivating legend deeply rooted in the Salzkammergut region. This mythical love story adds a layer of magic to the already stunning natural beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains.

A brief summary to Die Sage vom Riesen Erla und der Nixe vom Laudachsee

  • Unnamed Road, Gmunden, 4810, AT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring your hiking boots to explore the scenic trails around Laudachsee and Grünberg.
  • Pack a swimsuit in summer to enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake's clear waters.
  • Visit the Ramsaualm, a mountain hut on the lake, for traditional Austrian food and panoramic views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Grünberg cable car top station, follow the well-marked hiking trails towards Laudachsee. The walk is approximately 1 hour on wide forest roads suitable for families. Alternatively, hike from the 'In der Klamm' settlement via forest roads. Parking is available on the street. From Gmunden, follow the B120 towards Scharnstein, then follow signs to 'In der Klamm'. Be aware that parking might be limited.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Traunsee tram to Gmunden Seebahnhof. From there, transfer to a bus towards Grünberg cable car valley station or hike to the station. Take the Grünberg cable car to the top. From the mountain station, it is approximately a 1-hour walk to Laudachsee. A single tram fare within Gmunden is around €2.20. A return ticket on the Grünberg cable car costs around €25 for adults.

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Discover more about Die Sage vom Riesen Erla und der Nixe vom Laudachsee

The legend of the giant Erla and the water nymph (Nixe) of Laudachsee is a beloved tale in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. According to the story, Erla, a giant residing in the Traunstein mountains, fell in love with Blondchen, a beautiful water nymph who lived in the Laudachsee. Their love story is filled with magic, longing, and ultimately, a touch of sadness. Erla is said to have built the Seeschloss Ort (a castle on a small island in Traunsee lake) as a token of his love for Blondchen. To be closer to her, Erla sought the help of a witch to shrink his size. However, their happiness was short-lived, as Blondchen eventually returned to the lake, unable to leave her watery home. Some say that after her death, Erla carved her face into the Traunstein mountain as a memorial. Others believe the "Sleeping Greek" on the Erlakogel mountain resembles the nymph. Today, visitors to Laudachsee can experience the magic of this legend while enjoying the lake's natural beauty. The lake is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers, with trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In summer, the clear waters of the Laudachsee are perfect for a refreshing swim. Along the trails from Grünberg mountain to the lake, wooden sculptures of Erla, the witch, and Blondchen can be found.

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