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These Are the Most Beautiful Mountain Lakes in Austria

Crystal clear, turquoise water in front of a breathtaking Alpine backdrop - quite a few gorgeous lakes are tucked away within the Austrian mountains.

March 1, 2023


Tyrol

Achensee

Where: Between Pertisau and Achenkirch, close to Innsbruck
Size: 6,8 km²
Web: achensee.com

Bergseen in Österreich

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Located in the center of the Alps between the Karwendel and Rofan mountains, Lake Achensee is worth a visit in any season. The particularly gorgeous turquoise color of the water is reminiscent of the Caribbean. A natural beauty beyond compare. Whether swimming, kite surfing, or snorkeling - particularly during Summer, Lake Achensee offers space for recreation and all kinds of other activities. In the Winter, tobogganing and skiing are lots of fun.  

Fernsteinsee

Where: In Nassereith, close to Fern Pass
Size: 18,22 ha
Web: fernsteinsee.at

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Anyone traveling from Germany across the Fernpass into beautiful Tyrol will inevitably catch a view of the breathtaking Fernsteinsee lake. Nestled into the Alpine panorama, it has a particular beauty to it. Water, so clear that you can see the bottom of the lake, forest along the riverside as far as the eye can see, and even a little island as a special highlight. The small lake is part of Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee, which offers its guests the perfect spot for diving and sunbathing with a view.

Plansee

Where: Close to Reutte
Size: 2,87 km²
Web: reutte.com

Bergseen in Österreich

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The beautiful Plansee is located close to the German border. Six kilometers in length, the second largest lake in Tyrol is narrow and is located within the high mountain peaks. There is a reason for the particular color of the water: Plansee was voted the cleanest lake in the state. It comes to no surprise that water sport lovers travel from far away. Sailing, surfing, fishing, or diving - anything is possible! With a water temperature of up to 21 degrees in the Summer, Plansee is exceptionally refreshing. From the circular hiking trail, the view of the lake is absolutely stunning. 

Carinthia 

Lake Wörthersee

Where: Between Klagenfurt, Pörtschach, and Villach
Size: 19,39 km²
Web: woerthersee.com

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Bustling life on the promenade, wellness in the best style and a gorgeous view of the foot of the Alps - Lake Wörthersee in Mediterranean Carinthia offers all three. The water has about 28 degrees all Summer, which is probably due to the area's proximity to Italy and Slovenia. Lake terraces, cool beach clubs, exciting events and trendy sports facilities are available even in the Winter, and Lake Wörthersee is its own perfect wellness and recreation spot 

Salzburg

Almsee

Where: near Grünau im Almtal
Size: 85 ha
Web: excursion tips.at

Bergseen in Österreich

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The water of Almsee lake there glimmers in the most beautiful shades of green you can imagine. Therefore, the name of the small village of Grünau could not be more perfect. The shore areas are protected, and the lake has formed a perfectly intact ecosystem for itself, which is the reason that swimming is not permitted. Many other water sports activities are strictly prohibited as well as to protect the unique and gorgeous lake. Walks along the shore as well as boat and paddle tours are highly recommended activities! 

Vorarlberg

Lake Formarin

Where: in the Lechquellen Mountains
Size: varies, up to 500 meters wide
Web: vorarlberg-alpenregion.at

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You may have seen it on Instagram, quite a few snapshots of the beautiful Formarin Lake circulate on teh social media platform since more and more hikers have visited the beautiful small pond in the center of the high mountains. Every year after the Winter when the snow thaws, the lake recreats itself and glimmers in the most beautiful and clearest colors. Hiking tours to the Formarin Lake are gaining popularity, and the surrounding, blooming landscape is absolutely beautiful. 

Reading Tip: These Austrian lakes are Instagram stars

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