I’m planning a trip to Austria in September and I’m looking for a quiet, scenic lake to spend a few days. We will be spending almost a week in Vienna and then driving to Salzburg for 3-4 days, so someplace in between or not too much farther west from Salzburg. I’m looking for someplace that possibly has boat tours of the lake and/or some nearby walking/hiking trails. I would prefer something on the “less touristy” end of the spectrum. I have seen mention of Konigssee, Wolfgangsee, and Mondsee and wondering if any of those would fit the bill. Any suggestions would be much appreciated!
Posted by
2754 posts
I suggest Gmunden at the Traunsee (Lake Traun). It is a somewhat bigger town, being the capital of the surrounding county, but provides boat access and tours across the lake, including the oldest steam ship from the 19th century still in operation.
There is a funicular (and hiking paths) up the local mountains for a wonderful view.
In the town there is an old pottery, known for its famous green-white design, as well as the funny "Museum of Sanitary Ceramics" (aka Toilet Museum).
By train you have easy access to, e.g., Bad Ischl, the town where emperor Franz Joseph I. spent his summer holidays for nearly his whole life, as well as to Hallstatt.
See "Top Attractions" here:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g229453-Activities-Gmunden_Upper_Austria.html
Posted by
Vienna, Austria
6035 posts
I love the peaceful lake scene in Austria. Konigssee and Wolfgangsee are very beautiful, but tourists flock there, especially to Konigssee. With Wolfgangsee, I love the village of St. Gilgen as I find St. Wolfgang too much, too touristy (it is slowly becoming a Hallstatt replacement). I think Fuschlsee is absolutely stunning - the color of the water is unreal, but this is a very quiet place. Mondsee - I've never been, but I'm sure it is very quiet. I would also through Grundlsee into the mix. Beautiful old houses for rent, strolls around the lake - I have a friend who goes every nice weekend and it sounds like a dream. But, if I had to pick, I will always go for St. Gilgen on Wolfgangsee. The views across the lake to the mountains is stunning.
Posted by
Austria
11 posts
Grundlsee and do a boat trip on the Toplitzsee, to the small lake "Kammerersee" behind it which includes a small hike.
Grundlsee is for sure "less touristy" than other places.
Posted by
OP
8 posts
Thank you for the input and suggestions!
Posted by
Oberpfalz, Germany
1618 posts
Does not fit your bill very well other than less tourism, and not too many places to stay but Hintersteiner See. We stayed at Appartements Seespitzhof for a few days. It was quiet.
Posted by
25 posts
Thanks for posing this timely question! I am looking for an alpine base or alpine lake base for me and my Mom to explore the area for 3-4 days in mid September. First time to Austria! For us it’s all about the views, culture and some easy-moderate walks/hikes without the crowds. Maybe a village town atmosphere if possible What about Altaussee as a base? Thanks!
Posted by
Niagara, Ontario
1964 posts
I really like Strobl on Wolfgangsee; a quiet, flat, attractive spot. Boat to St Wolfgang and St Gilgen. Hallstatt and Bad Ischl are close by, if you are interested. There are pretty, easy walks in and around town.
Posted by
Oberpfalz, Germany
1618 posts
We stayed in Fuschl at the Seerose Hotel this January. Not deep in the Alps but the bus with guest card can get you all around the area. Nice hotel and the half board was good. Many people from the UK were staying there then. My Frau's family stayed at the Attersee years in a row as Germans did years ago. The old place is closed but the family still has apartments. http://www.pension-resch.at