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Lake Hallstatt
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Lake
Lake Hallstatt is set amidst the imposing mountain world of the Dachstein massif in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region. With a surface area of approximately 8.55 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 125 meters, it is one of the region's most significant lakes. On its steep western shore lies the world-famous UNESCO Heritage village of Hallstatt, which gained global renown through its prehistoric salt discoveries. For millennia, the lake served as a crucial transport route for the 'white gold' extracted from the Hallstatt salt mine. Geologically, the lake is a typical glacial trough lake formed during the last Ice Age. Its clear, cool waters provide a habitat for numerous fish species, such as whitefish and lake trout. Particularly characteristic is the navigation on the lake, with traditional wooden boats called 'Zillen' and the ferry connection between the train station and the village of Hallstatt defining the scenery. Together with the Dachstein massif, the lake has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997.
- Location: Upper Austria, Austria
- Top sights: Sechserkogel · Panoramablick auf Hallstatt · Goiserer Aussicht
- Nearby: Bad Aussee (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -5 | -5 | -1 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 10 | 6 | 1 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 82 | 67 | 81 | 75 | 140 | 167 | 177 | 175 | 132 | 96 | 73 | 76 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The dark, shimmering lake is usually well accessible via federal roads that wind picturesquely through the surrounding green valleys. Train connections to nearby stations, often followed by a scenic ferry crossing, are also mostly readily available.
Best season
The summer months from June to August typically offer pleasant temperatures for boat trips and relaxed hiking along the shoreline. Autumn often bathes the surrounding forests in spectacular lively colors and brings a much quieter atmosphere.
Terrain & paths
The terrain on the shore varies from comfortable, flat promenades to steeply sloping, rocky hillsides that define its fjord-like character. On the higher trails, sturdy footwear and solid surefootedness are generally considered essential.
What to bring
For leisurely walks in the lakeside villages, comfortable everyday clothing is usually completely sufficient, supplemented by a light umbrella. Anyone wishing to explore the surrounding mountains, however, should always rely on hiking-suitable layers.
Parking
Parking options in the direct lakeside towns are often severely limited and typically subject to a fee, which is why shuttle services are popular. Arriving early or using Park-and-Ride systems slightly outside the towns is often highly recommended.
Safety
The steep riverbanks can become surprisingly slippery when wet, so caution is highly advised on unpaved coastal paths. Wind conditions can also sometimes change very quickly out on the water due to the deep valley-like shape of the memorable fjord.
Time needed
For a visit to a photogenic lakeside village and a short boat trip, visitors should generally plan for about three to four hours. To explore the entire valley and several magnificent viewpoints, however, a full day trip is highly recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The surface area of Lake Hallstatt is 8.55 square kilometers.
- The deepest point of the lake is 125 meters.
- The lake is situated at an elevation of 508 meters above sea level.
- Since 1997, the lake has been part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The Traun is the most important inlet and outlet of the lake.
- The water temperature rarely rises above 20 degrees Celsius in summer.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Hallstatt (10)
Schloss Grub🏰 castle
Palace in Upper Austria, municipality of Obertraun.
Hallstätter Marienaltar
Pentaptych, a five-panel winged altarpiece.
Pfarrkirche Maria am Berg
Church building in Upper Austria, Austria.
Schneidkogel
Mountain in the Dachstein range, Upper Austria.
Evangelische Kirche Hallstatt
Lutheran church building in Hallstatt, Austria.
Dreifaltikgeitssäule
Listed monument in Hallstatt (ID 20715).
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How deep is Lake Hallstatt?
The lake is 125 meters deep at its deepest point.
Can you cross the lake by boat?
Yes, there is a regular ferry connection between the Hallstatt train station and the village.
Is diving allowed in Lake Hallstatt?
Yes, the lake is very popular among divers due to its clear visibility.
Is there a hiking trail around the lake?
The East Shore cycle and hiking path is very beautiful, but it does not go completely around the lake.
How warm does the water get in summer?
The lake remains rather cool, usually reaching temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius in peak summer.
Lake Hallstatt: where is it located?
Lake Hallstatt is located in Upper Austria, Austria.
Lake Hallstatt: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sechserkogel, Panoramablick auf Hallstatt, Goiserer Aussicht.
Lake Hallstatt: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lake Hallstatt: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Hallstatt is set amidst the imposing mountain world of the Dachstein massif in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region.
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