Cast off! Discover Lake Hallstatt
Like a fjord flanked by mountain faces
A trip on the lake is definitely one of the nicest ways to discover the beauty of Lake. In the summer months, the shipping company Hemetsberger offers two different routes around the lake. The tour with the "Hallstatt" begins in Hallstatt Lahn and continues via Obertraun - on the other side of the lake – past the romantic castle Grub and on to the centre of Hallstatt. The excursion boat "Goisern" goes along the eastern shores to Untersee and Steeg (Bad Goisern) on the northern tip of Lake Hallstatt. And whoever stands at the stern of one of the excursion boats and looks back at the foaming waves, can stop to think and get an idea of how man has won over the power of water.
Very special boat for a very special lake
They look a bit like gondolas in Venice and populate Lake Hallstatt, especially in the summer months: The "Fuhren" (flat transport boats made of wood, also called Plätten) have a long tradition on Lake Hallstatt as a means of transporting goods and people. As early as the 13th century, after the reopening of the salt mine in Hallstatt, shipping across the lake and the Traun became necessary to transport the goods. Today, only a few people have mastered this craft. Today, the so-called "Fuhr" is part of UNESCO's "Intangible Cultural Heritage" in the Salzkammergut.
By boat, foot or bike
For those who would like to be active, you can rent bicycles, rowing and pedal boats on Lake Hallstatt. This allows you to explore the surroundings on land or water. On the east shore, the dark green shimmering lake is lined by a hiking and bicycle path, wooded mountains and lush meadows. A landscape that can learnt in a particularly impressive way, during a boat trip.
How it was way back when...!
The Lake Hallstatt shipping company, which counts as the fourth oldest in Austria and the second oldest in the Salzkammergut, was important for the beginning of tourism in Hallstatt. With the construction of the Crown Prince Rudolf railway in 1877 and the opening of the Hallstatt station in 1881, many people came to Hallstatt by train and ferry. Since its foundation in 1862 until now, fourteen different ships have been used.
Navigation on the Lake of Hallstatt has been in existence since 1862 and the ferry tours from Hallstatt-Markt to the railway station since 1881. The line from Hallstatt-Markt to the railway station is still the only shipping line which navigates on an Austrian lake also in winter. This shipping line, which family Hemetsberger has been owning since autumn 1967, disposes about a fleet of four ships. Throughout the year we are employing five employees and in the summer the staff is increased according to demand. The tour Hallstatt-Obersee-Untersee-Steeg is mainly guided by our female employees and also on all the other lines they are often the captains..
Enjoyment and indulgence
Many are attracted to the lake to go hiking along the shady shores, to dive into the cool water on hot summer days or to go boating on the lake. So why not stop off for a swim or for a bite to eat or coffee and cake at one of the many dining establishments. Whether in the large garden at the "Haus am See" in Obertraun, in the cosy pavement café of the guesthouse "Seerauzn" on the east shore in Untersee (Bad Goisern), or under the chestnut trees at Steegwirt in Bad Goisern - here you can unwind and be spoiled by the many Salzkammergut delights.
Offers around Lake Hallstatt
Bathing island & children’s’ playground in Hallstatt
Hallstatt | Bathing island: Recreation for visitors and locals. Equipped with a large children's play area, large sunbathing area and toilet facilities. Perfect for fun family bathing.
Recreational paradise on Lake Hallstatt
Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt | Strandbad: The family-friendly beach in Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful and best maintained swimming facilities on Lake Hallstatt
Cycling Trail around Lake Hallstatt
Approximately 41 kilometres long circuit with numerous places to stop for refreshments. A tour of about 4 to 5 hours. Highlight: the east bank cycle path with swimming opportunities and shady picnic areas.
Unforgettable holiday experience: "Salt Ship" Navia Obertraun & Hallstatt
Take an extraordinary ride on Lake Hallstatt with Navia, and turn back time. On board a Zille, sister to those that transported the “white gold” from Hallstatt’s Salzberg, or Salt Mountain, into the wider world 500 years ago.
Untersee lido in Bad Goisern
Bad Goisern on Lake Hallstatt/ Untersee lido: The beautifully located lakeside resort, with stunning panoramic views over the fjord-like lake and the Krippenstein, the mountain for excursions and hiking, counts as one of the most beautiful bathing areas in the Salzkammergut.
Hallstatt recreational area
Hallstatt / Obertraun | recreational area: Large bathing beach on Lake Hallstatt with a large sunbathing area, barbeque areas, snack bar and ample parking. Special feature: Unique panoramic views while swimming!
Dog bathing area on Lake Hallstatt
Obertraun | Dog bathing area: For all four-legged friends, who want to cool down a bit on hot summer days, there is a dog bathing area at the so-called Landbettler between Hallstatt and Obertraun.
Shipping on Lake Hallstatt
Hallstatt | Ship tours: Whether large or small trip – this is where you will find an overview of daily excursions from May through October on Lake Hallstatt. Cast off and Ship Ahoy!
Lake Hallstatt Explorer
Hallstatt | Boat hire on the lake promenade: Experience the lakes around Hallstatt at their best – during a boat trip with friends or the whole family. Enjoy Lake Hallstatt.
The “Ostuferwanderweg” (East shore hiking trail) - Always along Lake Hallstatt
Family-friendly hike along Lake Hallstatt. From Bad Goisern via Hallstatt to Obertraun. Picturesque nature trail with a total walking time of around 3 hours. With great refreshment stops and cool swimming spots. Hiking by the lake with a nature trail.
Hikers snug “Seeraunzn“
Bad Goisern on Lake Hallstatt | Insider tip amongst hikers and cyclists. Excellent cuisine with magnificent views. Easy to reach by boat. Dinner is served!
The magic of water
Hiking and mountain biking is getting more and more popular, but also rafting, canyoning, kayaking be the ultimate recreation for a sporty tourist!
Events around Lake Hallstatt
Guided Canoe Tours on Lake Hallstatt
Tue, Oct. 15, 2024 Gosaumühle Car park,
Hallstatt Farmers‘ Market
Tue, Oct. 15, 2024 08:00 — 11:00 Bathing beach Hallstatt, Hallstatt
Hallstatt booking - Are you still looking for accommodation?
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.