1. The photogenic Traunsee

We think the Traunsee is the most impressive and photogenic lake in Salzkammergut. The lake is surrounded by charming villages, mountains and churches. With a depth of 191 meters, the Traunsee is the deepest lake in Austria!

If you visit the Traunsee, we definitely recommend to make a stop at Traunkirchen. The Johannesburg Kapelle is the eye-catcher of the village. The Kapelle is located on top of a rock and in the background you can see the rugged mountain landscape. In Traunkirchen we rented a boat to explore the area from the water. You sail past harbors and boathouses.

2. The diverse Wolfgangsee

The Wolfgangsee is a large lake that extends over two federal states, Upper Austria and Salzburgerland. There’s a lot to do. For example, plan an active day on the water; you can (kite) surf, sail, water ski, kayak, snorkel, wakeboard or paddle. Enjoy the sun on a beautiful summer day on one of the sunbathing areas or natural beaches or discover the area via one of the many walking routes.

We stopped at two points along the lake. North of the lake you will find a higher panoramic viewpoint where you can admire a large part of the Wolfgangsee. Then we stopped at the village of Strolb; a colorful authentic village with lots of flowers and kiosks where you can eat with a view of the Wolfgangsee.

3. The mysterious Hallstättersee

The Hallstättersee is a picturesque green-blue lake which is beautifully located at the – in our opinion – most beautiful mountain village in Austria: Hallstatt. We visited the Hallstättersee on a foggy early morning. The clouds hung just above the water, creating a mysterious atmosphere.

Sidenote: Hallstatt is very popular. The small village is visited by almost 1 million tourists every year. Do you want to know how to avoid this tourist crowd? Read our tips for a visit to Hallstatt.

4. The crystal clear Attersee

The Attersee is the perfect destination for a wonderful day at the water in Salzkammergut. The Attersee is one of the largest lakes in Austria. Take a cooling dip in the crystal clear water, which is even drinking quality. On a sunny day the Rosenwind blows across the lake from the north-east. This makes the Attersee a very suitable place for water sports enthusiasts.

5. The iconic Mondsee

Next to the Attersee is the Mondsee. We drove a jawdropping route along this lake. Enjoy the beautiful mountainous environment, the clear water and be sure to visit the town of Mondsee. It is known for beautiful architecture such as the colored houses, the former monastery that now has been transformed into a four-star hotel and the Basilika St. Michael Mondsee which was used as the film setting of The Sound of Music. In the evening we had a delicious dinner on one of the terraces and we were entertained by a performance by locals with Schuhplattler. This is an energetic traditional folk dance, where men in lederhosen stamp and clap their hands, thighs and soles to the beat of the music.

6. The idyllic Fuschlsee

The Fuschlsee is an idyllic lake in Salzkammergut where you can stroll along the water. Relax on one of the jetties and dip your feet in the water. You can enjoy a beautiful view over the water from here. It is the perfect place to completely unwind.