Top 20 Lakes around Gosau

For an easy and scenic walk, the circular trail around Front Gosau Lake (Vorderer Gosausee) is highly recommended. It's accessible and takes approximately an hour, offering stunning views of the Dachstein mountains reflected in the water. The path is generally flat and suitable for most visitors.

Yes, the Gosau lakes offer several family-friendly options. Front Gosau Lake is particularly popular, where families can enjoy swimming in the clear water, renting pedal boats, electric boats, or stand-up paddleboards during summer. The easy circular path around this lake is also suitable for families.

One of the most popular hikes is the trail from Vorderer Gosausee to Hinterer Gosausee, which is about 12.6 km round trip and takes around 3 hours. For a shorter, easy option, the loop around Front Gosau Lake is very popular. You can find more hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Gosau guide.

Yes, you can swim in the Gosau lakes, particularly in Front Gosau Lake (Vorderer Gosausee). The water is crystal-clear and of drinking water quality, though it can be quite cold as it's glacier-fed.

The Gosau lakes are renowned for their dramatic alpine setting. The most striking feature is the reflection of the majestic Dachstein mountains, including Hoher Dachstein and Gosaukamm, in the emerald-green waters of Front Gosau Lake. The ephemeral Gosaulacke, which only appears during snowmelt or heavy rain, is another unique natural phenomenon.

Yes, paid parking is available near Front Gosau Lake (Vorderer Gosausee), making it easily accessible by car.

The Gosau lakes are beautiful year-round. From May to October, the circular hiking trail around Vorderer Gosausee is fully accessible, and summer activities like boating are available. Autumn offers particularly idyllic views, especially around Hinterer Gosausee. Winter provides a stunning snow landscape, with opportunities for ice diving.

Yes, for adventure seekers, two via ferrata routes, Laserer Alpin Klettersteig and Intersport Klettersteig Donnerkogel, start from Front Gosau Lake. The Donnerkogel via ferrata is famous for its 'Stairway to Heaven.' More challenging hikes, such as the ascent to Adamekhütte, can be undertaken from Hinterer Gosausee. Explore more options in the Mountain Hikes around Gosau guide.

Yes, there is a cozy restaurant located right by Front Gosau Lake (Vorderer Gosausee) where visitors can enjoy meals or refreshments.

While the immediate area around the Gosau lakes is more focused on hiking, the broader region offers excellent cycling. For example, the Hallstatt Lake East Shore Cycle Path provides beautiful views along Lake Hallstatt. You can find various cycling routes in the Cycling around Gosau guide.

Hinterer Gosausee, also known as Upper Lake Gosau, is a smaller, more secluded glacier lake situated deeper in the valley. It offers a sense of remoteness and tranquility, rewarding hikers with idyllic views, especially in autumn. It's only accessible by foot, providing a more immersive nature experience.

The entire area around Front Gosau Lake offers numerous photographic opportunities, with the reflection of the Dachstein mountains being a classic shot. The Gosaukamm Cable Car, near Vorderer Gosausee, transports visitors to the Zwieselalm, offering panoramic views over the lakes and surrounding mountains.