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Lake Attersee
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Lake Attersee in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region is the largest lake located entirely within Austria, covering an area of approximately 46 square kilometres. It reaches a maximum depth of 169 metres and is distinguished by its exceptional water quality and visibility of up to 25 metres, making it a premier diving destination. Geologically, the lake is a relic of the Würm glaciation, with its basin carved by the Traun glacier. Historically, prehistoric pile dwellings along its shores are significant and have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 2011. The lake is also famous for the 'Rosenwind', a steady breeze that attracts sailors from across Europe. Culturally, the landscape inspired renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt, who created many of his famous landscape paintings here. The ecosystem of Lake Attersee supports rare fish species like the pearl fish and the whitefish. The region is well-developed for tourism with the Attersee circular trail and numerous water sports, while maintaining a strong focus on preserving the ecological balance.
- Location: Upper Austria, Austria
- Top sights: Gale Warning Seefeld Iso Y 2s · Gale Warning Nußdorf Iso Y 2s · Auf dem Laufsteg ins Zwetschkenreich
- Nearby: Mondsee (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 94 | 73 | 85 | 68 | 132 | 152 | 149 | 150 | 115 | 89 | 70 | 81 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
To reach Lake Attersee in the Salzkammergut region, follow excellent local roads. Accessing these sparkling blue waters starts from nearby towns.
Best season
The best season for Lake Attersee in Austria is generally during warm summer months. Clear weather features a striking view of the sparkling blue waters.
Terrain & paths
Walking at Lake Attersee features the terrain of pristine shores and nature trails. The landscape in Austria provides a wonderfully scenic route.
What to bring
For exploring the sparkling blue waters at Lake Attersee, bring comfortable walking shoes. In Austria, carrying water and sun protection is standard.
Parking
Parking near Lake Attersee requires leaving cars in official spots in the Salzkammergut region. Early arrival secures a base near the blue waters.
Safety
Safety at Lake Attersee means strictly following rules for alpine lakes in Austria. Staying in marked swimming zones ensures a fully secure visit.
Time needed
Visiting Lake Attersee and its sparkling blue waters usually takes at least a half day. Lovers of the Austrian natural environment often extend stays.
Geography
Facts
- Largest lake entirely within Austria (46.2 km²).
- The maximum depth of the lake is 169 metres.
- UNESCO World Heritage since 2011 (pile dwellings).
- Average summer water temperature is approx. 22-25°C.
- Underwater visibility of up to 25 metres.
- Gustav Klimt spent his summers there between 1900 and 1916.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Attersee (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Lake Attersee?
It is the largest lake located entirely in Austria and is famous for its turquoise blue water.
Is Lake Attersee good for diving?
Yes, with visibility of up to 25 meters, it is considered one of the best diving spots in Europe.
Which famous painter is associated with the lake?
Gustav Klimt spent many summers here and painted numerous landscapes of the lake.
Are there hiking trails with lake views?
Yes, for example the Attersee west hiking trail or tours up the Schafberg.
What are the pile dwellings at Lake Attersee?
Prehistoric settlement remains belonging to the UNESCO World Heritage; info is available at the pavilion in Seewalchen.
Lake Attersee: where is it located?
Lake Attersee is located in Upper Austria, Austria.
Lake Attersee: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gale Warning Seefeld Iso Y 2s, Gale Warning Nußdorf Iso Y 2s, Auf dem Laufsteg ins Zwetschkenreich.
Lake Attersee: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lake Attersee: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Attersee in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region is the largest lake located entirely within Austria, covering an area of approximately 46 square kilometres.
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