Lakes around Desselbrunn are primarily associated with the broader Salzkammergut region in Upper Austria. Desselbrunn itself is situated between the Traun and Ager rivers. The most prominent natural water feature in its immediate vicinity is the Traunfall, a significant waterfall on the Traun River. While large bathing lakes are found nearby, Desselbrunn's aquatic appeal centers on the dynamic Traun River.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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The impressive 130-meter-long wooden bridge leads visitors directly to the picturesque Ort Castle, which sits on a small island in Lake Traunsee. With its remarkable Renaissance arcaded courtyards, the castle attracts numerous tourists year after year who want to discover the history and beauty of this place. Since 1995, the castle has belonged to the municipality of Gmunden, which maintains it with great dedication and preserves its historical splendor. The castle's history is as fascinating as it is multifaceted; in 1915, it was transferred from the estate of Johann Orth to the state forestry service. Over the centuries, Ort Castle and the Ort estate changed hands several times, resulting in an interesting cultural heritage. This eventful history makes Ort Castle a significant part of the region, captivating visitors both culturally and architecturally.
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The former lower square or lower market, called Rathausplatz, once served as a trading center for salt, grain, lime, and goods of all kinds, and was therefore a center of lively trade and traffic every day.
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In the venerable year of 1850, as winter settled over picturesque Gmunden, construction began on the magnificent Esplanade by filling in the expansive lakebed. This ambitious undertaking, completed in 1862, represented a milestone in the development of this esteemed community. In the following years, 1890/91 and 1896/97, significant widenings were carried out, further enhancing the Esplanade's splendor and spaciousness. Since then, this exquisite lakeside promenade has been not only a place for distinguished guests to stroll, but also a popular meeting place for the local population. From the elevated heights of the Esplanade, visitors enjoy the glorious view of the shimmering lake, the majestic mountain ranges, and the magnificent Ort castles, which gleam like pearls in the sunlight.
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The acoustic attraction in Gmunden – the unique ceramic carillon in the top loggia of Gmunden Town Hall. The carillon was made in Meissen with the Gmunden decoration.
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The town hall, dating back to the 16th (!) century, dominates the view. Details: https://www.salzkammergut.at/oesterreich-poi/detail/430001886/rathaus-gmunden.html
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Fantastic setting on a beautiful promenade. Pure holiday feeling. Greatly designed for young and old with lots of different seating options, tree avenues, colorful plants and a cute playground.
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Desselbrunn itself is situated between the Traun and Ager rivers, and its most prominent natural water feature is the Traunfall waterfall. While large bathing lakes are not directly within Desselbrunn, the municipality is known for its proximity to the larger, well-known lakes of the Salzkammergut region, such as Traunsee, Attersee, and Mondsee.
The most prominent natural water feature directly in the vicinity of Desselbrunn is the Traunfall. This picturesque waterfall on the Traun River boasts a drop of around twelve meters and offers a 'wild romantic' natural jewel with densely forested riverbanks.
Yes, particularly around Lake Traunsee. You can visit Gmunden - Town Hall Square, a historical town square in Gmunden that once served as a trading center. Another significant historical site is Schloss Ort, a picturesque castle on an island in Lake Traunsee, connected by a 130-meter-long wooden bridge.
From Desselbrunn, you have good access to major Salzkammergut lakes like Traunsee, Attersee, and Mondsee. These offer diverse opportunities for recreation and enjoying natural beauty.
The area around Desselbrunn and its nearby lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes, such as those around Lake Laudach or Lake Redlham. For hikers, there are waterfall hikes, including trails around the Traunfall Waterfall. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Desselbrunn and Waterfall hikes around Desselbrunn guides.
Yes, there are hiking trails for various skill levels. For example, near the Traunfall Waterfall, you can find easy routes like the 'Nikolaus Chapel – Traunfall Waterfall loop from Desselbrunn' (2.25 km) or more moderate options such as the 'Traunfall Waterfall – Traunfall Loop loop from Desselbrunn' (9.24 km). These are detailed in the Waterfall hikes around Desselbrunn guide.
Absolutely. Many areas around the nearby lakes are family-friendly. For instance, Toscanapark by Lake Traunsee is a landscaped garden perfect for walking and relaxation. View of Schloss Ort and Ort Lake Castle are also considered family-friendly, offering historical exploration and scenic views.
Yes, the Gmunden Promenade (Esplanade) on Lake Traunsee is a wide, accessible promenade where pedestrians and cyclists can enjoy the views. Gmunden - Town Hall Square is also listed as wheelchair accessible.
For a scenic walk, the Gmunden Promenade (Esplanade) along Lake Traunsee offers beautiful views of the lake, mountains, and Schloss Ort. The Toscanapark also provides a lovely landscaped setting for a stroll by the lake.
The warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), are generally ideal for visiting the lakes and water features around Desselbrunn. This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic views.
Yes, particularly in towns like Gmunden on Lake Traunsee. The Ort Lake Castle houses the Orther Stub'n restaurant and wine bar. Gmunden itself, with its Town Hall Square, offers a lively spa town atmosphere with various cafes and pubs.
While the larger Salzkammergut lakes offer designated bathing areas, some adventurous individuals engage in diving and snorkeling in the cold, clear waters of the Traunfall, though accessibility can be challenging. For more traditional swimming, the larger nearby lakes like Traunsee, Attersee, and Mondsee are better suited.
Visitors particularly enjoy the 'wild romantic' natural beauty of the Traunfall and the captivating views of Schloss Ort on Lake Traunsee. The serene atmosphere of Toscanapark and the Mediterranean feel of the Gmunden Promenade are also highly appreciated.


Still not found your perfect lake around Desselbrunn? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.