Bathing lakes in Steiermark
Relaxation by the lake
Crystal-clear and refreshing lakes with a surface that reflects the mountains, a variety of activities and accommodation options from wellness hotels to holiday flats and campsites right by the lake ... In Styria, guests and visitors can spend wonderful holidays by and in the water.
Steiermark for bathing fans and swimmers
As soon as the sun comes up in the morning, the bathing lakes in Styria turn into a popular destination for families. Once you've found the perfect spot by the lake, it's time to take a dip in the cool water! After swimming, spacious sundecks invite you to enjoy a refreshing ice cream or an afternoon coffee and homemade desserts made with products from the region.
For an active change from sunbathing, there are slides, playgrounds, football grounds or volleyball courts directly at the bathing lidos.
Bathing on the Tauplitz | © Steiermark Tourismus | Tom Lamm
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At Stubenbergsee lake | © Steiermark Tourismus | Bernhard Bergmann
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Lake Putterer | © Steiermark Tourismus | Tom Lamm
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Natural pond to bath at thermae Bad Waltersdorf, Source hotel | © Steiermark Tourismus | Tom Lamm
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Ramsauer Lake | © Steiermark Tourismus | photo-austria.at
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Grundlsee lake | © Steiermark Tourismus | Tom Lamm
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In Wildon by the bathing lake | © Steiermark Tourismus | pixelmaker.at
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Discover lakes and ponds in Steiermark
More than swimming
At the lakes in the green heart of Austria, it is not only a day of swimming that awakens holiday feelings in guests of all ages:
- Lake Altaussee is probably one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. During a circular hike, you can always pause and admire Loser and its surrounding mountain landscape.
- Lake Grundlsee offers a wide range of activities: from rowing or sailing amidst the beautiful mountain world of the "Totes Gebirge" range to exploring the depths of the lake on a dive. The possibilities around the element of water are manifold and diverse.
- Both Lake Altaussee and Lake Grundlsee are also great locations for a boat trip.
Breathtaking scenic views of the lakes are best enjoyed on a long walk. Passionate hikers can immerse themselves in a landscape full of natural treasures on the way to the mountain lakes of Styria. What's more, a well-deserved break at the lakes in mountainous terrain is both relaxing and refreshing.
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Camping: close to the water
While camping by the lake, holidaymakers feel even closer to nature and the water. But mind you, the early bird catches the worm – and secures a pitch in a prime location right by the lake. As soon as you've parked your camper or set up your tent, the fun begins. Whether you want to go for a swim or relax and unwind while fishing: At and in the lakes of Styria, everyone can indulge in their favourite activity.
Outdoor pools and adventure pools
Pack your swimming gear, put on your sunglasses, and off you go to the water. But it's not just bathing lakes that offer refreshment in Styria - outdoor pools and adventure pools also await day trippers. In the green heart of Austria, all roads lead to the water.
Summercard, Genusscard and Murau GästeCard
Bathing fun included! The Summercard, Genusscard and Murau GästeCard are your holiday plus in Steiermark: In Schladming-Dachstein, the south and east of Styria and in the Murau region, visitors with the respective benefit card enjoy free admission to select bathing lakes – for even more fun in the water.
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
To keep the anticipation pure, we’ve gathered the most important answers for a day at one of the bathing lakes.
The water quality of the lakes is tested several times each summer by the health agency AGES, and year after year the results confirm their excellent quality.
Some lakes offer designated dog beaches or bathing areas for dogs – for example:
Please check the local regulations or lake rules in advance. You’ll find more information on the Holidays with Dogs page.
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
- Insect repellent
- Small travel first aid kit (plasters, etc.)
- Plastic bag for wet clothes
Depending on size, location, and sun exposure, water temperatures vary. The warmer lakes include:
- Wildoner Badesee
- Putterersee
- Stubenbergsee
- Hirzmann Reservoir
- Naturbadesee Gleinstätten
The cooler, refreshing lakes include:
- Leopoldsteiner See
- Grundlsee
- Erlaufsee
This depends on the lake. Some swimming lakes offer designated barbecue areas, while at others open fires are not permitted. Please check local regulations – and be mindful of nature and fellow visitors.
Yes, almost all bathing lakes offer restaurants or snack bars serving food and drinks. Details on the culinary options can be found in the descriptions of the individual bathing lakes.
The Grüner See near Tragöß was voted Austria’s most beautiful place in 2014 and is one of the most sought-after lakes in Steiermark. The lake is formed by snowmelt and usually reaches its maximum depth in early summer. The characteristic green colour of the water is created by the crystal-clear lakebed and the meltwater. The Grüner See is a protected natural area; therefore, swimming, bathing, diving, and the use of boats or air mattresses are prohibited. It is, however, ideal for hiking, walking, and photography.
