Lakeside Holidays
Refreshingly different
A lakeside holiday in Steiermark combines nature, relaxation, and activity – from crystal-clear alpine lakes to warm family-friendly paradises in the south and east.
When summer awakens the senses and everyday life fades into the background, there’s hardly anything more liberating than a plunge into cool, refreshing water. In Steiermark, a lakeside holiday means more than just refreshment: it’s an invitation to slow down and savour true nature.
Whether surrounded by alpine mountain scenery in the Ausseerland Salzkammergut or nestled in the gentle hills of the Oststeiermark, Styrian bathing lakes and lakeside accommodations impress with their variety, quality, and tranquillity. Here you can soak up the sun on a grassy shore, enjoy active moments on a SUP board, or relax on a leisurely boat ride.
Diving, breathing, recharging
What makes a lakeside holiday in Steiermark so special:
- Diverse landscapes: From the refreshingly cool Grundlsee, known as the “Styrian Sea,” to the warm Stubenbergsee in the Oststeiermark, the spectrum ranges from alpine to almost Mediterranean.
- Crystal-clear water & excellent quality: The lakes’ water quality is tested several times each summer by the health agency AGES, and year after year the results confirm its outstanding purity.
- Peace & nature experiences: Hiking trails, protected sunbathing areas, and car-free zones around the lakes create space to breathe – far away from mass tourism.
- Family-friendliness & comfort: Many lakes feature shallow shorelines, playgrounds, lidos, and leisure activities – perfect for little explorers.
- Culinary delights & regional hospitality: Nearby wine taverns (Buschenschänken), restaurants, and charming accommodations await – ideal for conscious travellers.
- Culture meets nature: Many lake regions – such as Ausseerland Salzkammergut – combine swimming fun with cultural highlights like summer concerts and traditional festivals.
Holidays with a lake view
Between Altausseer See and Röcksee
What could be better than waking up to the gentle sparkle of water in the morning – and stepping from your bed straight onto the bathing jetty?
In Steiermark, you’ll find accommodations where the lake isn’t just within sight, but right on your doorstep. From charming family hotels to stylish retreats for discerning guests, these selected lakeside hotels and holiday flats combine natural beauty with comfort and genuine hospitality. Perfect for anyone who wants to fully embrace life by the water.
Holidays at Lake Altaussee
Emerald-green water meets the striking silhouette of the Loser. Between the lakeshore and the surrounding mountains, a place of tranquillity and inspiration unfolds. Whether a leisurely round trip on the solar boat, a walk around the lake, a panoramic hike, or a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water – here, landscape and lifestyle blend into a truly special summer experience in the Ausseerland Salzkammergut.
Holidays at Lake Grundlsee
Vast stretches of water, impressive peaks, and views towards the Dachstein shape the scenery at the largest lake in Steiermark. A relaxing boat trip, sporty hours on the board, or leisurely walks along the shore or onwards to Lake Toplitzsee – Lake Grundlsee stands for a nature-close escape and genuine summer moments.
Holidays at Lake Erlaufsee
Intense turquoise water, drinking-water quality, and an idyllic landscape backdrop make this lake in the Mariazellerland in the Hochsteiermark a special retreat. Pedal boat rides, relaxed hours by the shore, or active explorations around the lake create ideal conditions for carefree holiday days.
Holidays at Lake Stubenbergsee
Sunny openness, pleasantly warm water temperatures, and plenty of space for activity on the sandy beach with a sunken pirate ship or in the climbing park define the most popular swimming lake in Steiermark. From a sporty jump into the water to a leisurely cycling tour through the region’s apple orchards, a diverse summer escape with a southern flair unfolds here.
Holidays at Lake Turracher See
At 1,800 metres above sea level, alpine swimming awaits with crystal-clear spring water. Surrounded by stone pine forests and the gentle Nockberge mountains, hiking along the 3 Seen Weg combines fresh mountain air with invigorating lakeside moments. Perfect for those who want to experience summer in its most authentic form.
Holidays at Lake Packer Reservoir
Deep-green forests, quiet shores, and refreshing mountain air shape this natural idyll in the Lipizzanerheimat. Whether fishing in the early morning hours, exploring scenic hiking trails, or enjoying a refreshing dip in summer – leisure here is all about slowing down in harmony with the landscape.
Holidays at Lake Röcksee
In the Thermen- & Vulkanland, this pleasantly warm bathing lake near the border with Slovenia invites visitors to enjoy relaxed summer days. Spacious sunbathing lawns, a family-friendly setting, and the proximity to excellent culinary addresses create perfect conditions for a laid-back getaway in the south of Steiermark.
Lakeside camping holiday
For those who love the element of water, there’s nothing better than pitching a tent or parking a campervan right by the lake. For children, endless hours splashing in the water are pure joy. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the wide range of activities – from swimming and kayaking to stand-up paddling. And anyone seeking total tranquillity will find it while relaxing with a fishing rod on the shore.
A particularly cosy atmosphere – from gentle mornings to picturesque sunsets – awaits holidaymakers at Sulmsee, Stubenbergsee, or Röcksee. All three are also located along the Weinland Steiermark Cycle Tour. And here the saying holds true: the early bird catches the worm – book early to secure the best lakeside spots!
More informations
From the journey to the weather
Whether it's a relaxing beach holiday, active days with the family or a spontaneous break by the water: anyone planning a holiday by the lake in Styria often has a few questions – ranging from how to get there to the weather forecast.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Where can my dog swim, and much more...
To keep the anticipation pure, we’ve gathered the most important answers about planning, activities, and essentials for a lakeside holiday. This way, you can start your personal Sommerfrische perfectly prepared!
The approximately 70 bathing lakes all offer excellent infrastructure, stunning natural scenery, and a wide range of leisure activities. The most popular lakes are:
- Altausseer See
- Grundlsee
- Ödensee
- Putterersee
- Erlaufsee
- Stubenbergsee
- Packer Stausee
- Sulmsee
- Röcksee
These lakes are ideal for swimming holidays, relaxation, and active summer days by the water.
Many lakes in Steiermark are freely accessible, such as the Altausseer See. Others – like the Stubenbergsee – charge a moderate entry fee for their well-maintained lidos. The Swimming Lakes in Steiermark page offers a helpful overview.
Depending on the lake, a wide range of activities is available: SUP, kayaking, boating, diving, sailing, hiking, or cycling around the lake. Some locations also offer guided tours or boat rentals. Boat trips are available on lakes such as Altausseer See, Grundlsee, Toplitzsee, Kammersee, Erlaufsee, and Stubenbergsee.
From campsites to hotels with private lake access – Steiermark offers a wide variety of accommodations right on the water. On the Holidays by the Lake page, you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for stays with lake views and direct access to the water.
In addition to swimwear, sunscreen, and towels, we recommend packing:
- Swimsuit, bikini, or swim trunks; water shoes/flip-flops
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Bath towels, picnic blanket, and beach mat
- Lounger or folding chair
- Windbreak or beach tent
- Sun umbrella with stand
- Beach toys for kids (and adults!)
- Boccia set, Frisbee, badminton, football, etc.
- Beach bag/cooler with drinks and light snacks
- Swimming gear like pool noodles, air mattresses, or snorkels
- Inflatable mattress/boat and pump
- UV-protection clothing (especially for children) and spare clothes
- Books
- Smartphone (plus charger and/or power bank)
- Insect repellent
- Small travel first aid kit (plasters, etc.)
- Plastic bag for wet clothes
- Hiking or cycling gear for excursions
Yes, many lake regions also feature outdoor pools or thermal spas:
- GrimmingTherme near the Grundlsee
- Aqualux Therme in Fohnsdorf
- Therme Nova in Köflach
- the six spas of the Thermen- & Vulkanland
They’re perfect for rainy days or offer plenty of space and amenities for extra relaxation.
Absolutely. Many lakes feature shallow shorelines, playgrounds, water slides, and family-friendly infrastructure. Stubenbergsee and Putterersee are particularly popular with families, offering a wide range of activities and amenities designed for all ages.
Yes – from summer concerts and local markets to culinary events with lake views, Steiermark offers plenty of experiences around its waters across the different regions. It’s worth checking the events calendar!