Best lakes around Altausseer Lake are found in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, with Altausseer Lake itself being a notable destination. Nestled at the foot of the Loser Mountain, its clear, dark blue waters have earned it the moniker "dark blue inkwell." The lake and its largely undeveloped shores have been under nature conservation since 1959, preserving its natural landscape. The area offers various hiking trails around Altausseer See, providing views of the surrounding mountains.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
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In winter only refreshment possible in the village of Altausee
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The path is very easy to walk
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The walk around the lake takes about 90 minutes.
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Perhaps the most beautiful lake in the Salzkammergut.
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A silver fir tree around 1,400 years old was recovered from Lake Altaussee as part of a research project. The tree comes from an underwater forest that has been known since the 1970s. According to those responsible, the recovery of the 1,400 year old fir tree took several weeks. The tree was 18 meters deep and weighs six tons. Project manager Erwin Heine explained that the fire department needed four attempts to recover the tree. Around 100 tree trunks were also in the lake. Wood samples were taken from these, which showed that the trees were the same age.
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https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iF3SDvN_sGo James Bond was also here…. A scene 🎬 from Specter was filmed here.
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Beautiful circular route around the lake
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Altausseer Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear, slightly dark blue waters, earning it the nickname "dark blue inkwell." It is nestled at the foot of the Loser Mountain and surrounded by the stunning Totes Gebirge and Trisselwand. The lake's largely undeveloped shores have been under nature conservation since 1959, preserving its diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, the broader Ausseerland-Salzkammergut region offers several beautiful lakes. Grundlsee, often called the "Styrian Sea," is a larger, peaceful lake nearby. Toplitzsee is known for its mysterious aura and dramatic cliffs. While more touristy, the iconic Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt) and its historic village are also a popular day trip.
Altausseer Lake is ideal for gentle water sports such as swimming, bathing, and stand-up paddleboarding, especially in the calm mornings. You can also rent rowing boats and solar-powered boats to explore the lake, including Austria's first solar boat.
Absolutely. A popular 7.5 km circular trail, the Lakeside Trail at Lake Altaussee, winds around the lake, offering continuous scenic views of the water, the Totes Gebirge, and the Dachstein massif. This path is suitable for all and provides benches to enjoy the views. For more options, you can explore various easy hikes around Altausseer Lake.
Yes, Altausseer Lake is very family-friendly. The circular walking trail around the lake is suitable for all ages. The lake itself offers safe swimming and gentle water activities. Many highlights, including Lake Altaussee and the Lakeside Trail, are categorized as family-friendly.
The lake offers beauty year-round. Summer is excellent for swimming and water activities. The circular trail is enjoyable in spring, summer, and autumn. In winter, the lake often freezes, providing opportunities for ice skating and curling, and the surrounding area is perfect for cross-country skiing and winter hiking.
Yes, on the northeastern shore, the historic Seewiese Hunting Lodge on Lake Altaussee serves regional specialties with beautiful lake views. It's an ideal stop after a hike. There are also other local gastronomy options in the town of Altaussee.
The Seewiese Hunting Lodge is a notable historical site, famously featured in the James Bond movie "Spectre." The lake also hosts a boat parade with flower-decorated sculptures every third year during the Daffodil Festival, showcasing local cultural traditions.
Visitors consistently praise the lake's serene atmosphere and stunning scenic beauty, especially the reflections of Loser Mountain and the surrounding forests on the water. The continuous views from the circular trail and the opportunity for gentle water activities are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared over 480 photos and given more than 1400 upvotes for highlights around the lake.
Yes, the circular trail around Lake Altaussee can be made by bike outside of the summer months. For more extensive cycling, you can find various road cycling routes around Altausseer Lake, including the scenic Loser Panoramastraße.
Altausseer Lake stands out for its largely undeveloped shores and protected natural status since 1959, offering a tranquil and pristine experience. Its distinctive dark blue water and the dramatic backdrop of the Loser Mountain, Totes Gebirge, and Trisselwand create a particularly captivating landscape, often described as one of the most beautiful in the Salzkammergut.
The entire Lakeside Trail at Lake Altaussee offers continuous scenic views, including the Totes Gebirge and the Dachstein massif. The View of Trisselwand is another highly-rated viewpoint, offering impressive vistas of the mighty rock faces. The Loser Panoramastraße also provides sweeping views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Absolutely. The 7.5 km circular Lakeside Trail at Lake Altaussee is an easy walk suitable for all, even in regular sneakers. There are also several other easy hikes around Altausseer Lake, such as the loop from Altaussee offering views of the Dachstein, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.


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