Austria, DACH region

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

February 19, 2020

Follow our mini-series where we introduce you to some of the most stunning lakes in the Austrian Alps. After discovering Offensee and Hallstätter See, explore with us another one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee! Here’s all you need to know before planning your trip to Gmunden and Ebensee, the picturesque Upper-Austrian towns surrounding Traunsee!

Traunsee: How to get there

Traunsee is a lake in the Salzkammergut region, in Austria, and a very popular tourist destination. The closest Austrian cities are Linz and Salzburg.

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

The most comfortable way to get there and to easily explore all the different lakes, little towns, and resorts in the area, is by driving. Whether you rent a car or drive your own, you should check out at least the basic rules of driving in Austria. Here is an article that covers some of the things you need to know. Furthermore, always pay attention to parking restrictions and parking meters, in order to avoid fines or getting your car towed.

Map of Traunsee
Map of the Traunsee area

Not a fan of driving? There are trains that run frequently to Gmunden and Ebensee, operated by ÖBB. Although a great way to travel to these towns, train journeys may be a bit restrictive, not allowing you to discover the more remote areas and lakes in the region. Yet, if you’re keen on visiting Traunsee only, you can’t go wrong with a train ride.

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

For camping enthusiasts, you should know that there is a camping site at Traunsee. You can park your trailer right by the lake. Surely it is an amazing experience that we’re keen to try out soon as well.

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

Gmunden or Ebensee

While Gmunden is situated on the northern side of Traunsee Lake, Ebensee is located on the opposite side, in the south. Gmunden is a larger town, where you’ll find more cafes and restaurants, which can be great, especially in the winter season when the region is quieter and there are not so many outdoor activities available.

View of Gmunden
Gmunden city center
View of Gmunden

On the other hand, Ebensee is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stillness of the mountains that surround it.

Both destinations are in proximity to ski slopes and to spa centers and offer a great view of the lake and the Salzkammergut mountains. If you’re interested in wellness and spa facilities, check out the Salzkammergut thermal spa.

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

As we do for every article in this little series exploring Austria’s most beautiful lakes, we let the photos show off these gorgeous destinations in the Austrian Alps.

Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee
Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee
Austria’s most beautiful lakes: Traunsee

Our tips to fully enjoy the beauty of the area are to visit Traunkirche, a great panoramic spot of the lake. Also, have a coffee at Baumgartner Konditorei. It’s the perfect way to warm up, relax and take in the scenery:

Baumgartner Konditorei in Gmunden
Baumgartner Konditorei in Gmunden

Mountain lover? Here’s another gorgeous destination you cannot miss!

So, ready for your trip to one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes?

While you’re in the area, you may want to check out these other two amazing lakes in the Austrian Alps! Only a few minutes away, you can explore:

Offensee

Offensee guide

Hallstatt and Hallstätter See

Hallstatt and Hallstatter See Guide

You Might Also Like

No Comments

Leave a Reply