Leopoldsteinersee

Eisenerz

Leopoldsteiner See a hidden and pristine gem, poses a stunning sight embedded in the impressive foothills of Hochschwab massif.

Emerald waters reflecting the rugged rock walls of Seemauer, one of the most impressive via ferratas of the region, untouched shores with a white pebbble stone beach, dark forrests, natural beauty and a mystical saga cast their spell over every visitor.

°C

Water temperature

Water quality

0.5 km²

Area

Season

Season 01.05.2026 - 18.10.2026

Time 10:00 - 19:00

The Styrian mountain lake is a true natural jewel whose emerald green water surface reflects the rock face of the Hochschwab massif. The lake is undeveloped, unspoilt and fed by pure spring water from the surrounding mountains. It got its name because of its proximity to Leopoldstein Castle.

Incidentally, according to legend, a water sprite was captured in the vicinity of the lake. In order to be released, he showed his captors an iron ore deposit: the Erzberg, which is only a few kilometres away.

The crystal-clear water and pure mountain air invite you to take long walks around the lake and explore the water by boat. If you follow the 4-kilometre hiking trail around the lake, you can also enjoy a wonderful panoramic view and marvel at the picturesque and unspoilt surroundings. You can enjoy wonderful hours of sunshine on the lake on board electric boats, pedalos and rowing boats. The boats are available for hire daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in the summer months.

On hot summer days, day trippers can cool off away from the nature reserve by swimming in Lake Leopoldstein. With a maximum water temperature of 20 °C, refreshment is guaranteed.

The best way to get a bird's eye view of the crystal-clear water is from the Kaiser-Franz-Josef via ferrata. The challenging D-level climb is well secured but requires a good level of fitness. Once at the top, climbers are rewarded with a unique view.

Afterwards, refreshments are needed: the Restaurant Leopoldsteinersee and the Seestüberl on the eastern shore welcome their guests. They serve regional delicacies such as Steirerkasnockn as well as tried and tested classics. One speciality is lake trout straight from Lake Leopoldstein. This speciality is served in the Seestüberl and makes the hearts of fish lovers beat faster.

Refreshing tip: Lake Leopoldstein is the perfect place to cool off on the Styrian Iron Trail hiking route!

Photos & videos

01/01/2021 - 01/01/2030

Monday - Sunday

all day

Additional Information

Where is the Leopoldsteiner Lake located?

The Leopoldsteiner Lake is located just a few minutes by car from Eisenerz, between the Eisenerzer Alps and at the foot of the Hochschwab massif.

Is swimming allowed in the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Yes. The Leopoldsteiner Lake is freely accessible and a popular swimming lake. Due to its karst springs, the water remains pleasantly cool even in summer. There is a public bathing area on the western shore.

Is there a public restroom?

Yes, there are free sanitary facilities at the eastern shore near the paid parking lot at the Seestüberl.

Are dogs allowed at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Yes. Dogs are welcome at the Leopoldsteiner Lake and may use the circular path with their owners. Leash laws apply. Please be considerate of other guests and nature.

Are dogs allowed to swim in the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Playing and splashing is possible at the inflow and outflow of the lake. Tip: Follow the inflow stream further towards the valley end – it often gets quieter here, and you'll find beautiful gravel banks at the stream bed.

Are there parking spaces at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Yes. There is a paid parking lot at the entrance to the Leopoldsteiner Lake (opposite Schloss Leopoldstein). Card payments are possible. The second paid parking lot is on the eastern shore at the Seestüberl. Here, only cash payments are currently possible at the machine.

Heading towards Hieflau, at kilometer 113.2 below the municipal sewage treatment plant, there is another paid public parking lot.

PARKING FEES
one hour 0.80 €
two hours 1.50 €
five hours 3.00 €
twelve hours 6.00 €

Can I go boating at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Yes, electric, pedal, and rowing boats can be rented on the northern shore at the boat rental. The boat rental is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer! Contact: Viktor Seebacher, +43 664 8219 501 or info@esam.at

Am I allowed to paddleboard at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

No, paddleboarding is not allowed. The boat rental offers alternatives for sunny hours on the water.

Is it allowed to fly a drone at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

No, drone recordings are not permitted.

Is barbecuing allowed at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

No, barbecuing and open fires are not allowed at the Leopoldsteiner Lake.

Is camping or tenting allowed at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

No, wild camping and tenting are not permitted at the Leopoldsteiner Lake. Please use designated campgrounds in the region.

How long does it take to walk around the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

The walk around the lake is about 4 kilometers long and takes leisurely between 45 minutes and one hour. The path is easy to walk and suitable for families.

Is the circular path suitable for strollers?

The circular path starting from the parking lot at the Seestüberl is accessible for strollers along the northern side. The southern side from the bathing beach cannot be traversed: the partly narrow path leads over roots and stones back to the Seestüberl.

Is there dining available at the Leopoldsteiner Lake?

Yes, directly by the lake, there is the Seestüberl restaurant with regional cuisine and lake views (April to October). The snack station directly at the inlet of the Leopoldsteiner Lake next to the bathing area offers cold dishes, coffee, and pastries and is open daily from 10 a.m. during good weather from May to October.

As of July 2026