Gosausee – ultimate guide to Gosau lakes
Gosausee is a natural wonder in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, where you can find stunning lakes surrounded by the majestic Dachstein Mountains. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll, a challenging hike, a thrilling via ferrata or a cozy hut, Gosausee has something for everyone. In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about visiting Gosausee and its attractions.
I will cover everything you need to know about lakes, parking, cable car, routes, huts, via ferrata and more. I will also share some tips and tricks on how to make the most of your trip to Gosausee. By the end of this article, you will be ready to plan and book your dream vacation to Gosausee.
1. Parking at Gosausee – how to get there
If you want to visit Gosausee, you need to go to the Gosau Valley first. It is about 13 km from the town of Gosau. You can get to Gosau by car or by bus from Salzburg or Hallstatt. Then, you can take the road to the Vorderer Gosausee (the front lake). There is a large parking lot where you can leave your car. The parking fee is 4 euros per day. This is where your adventure begins.
2. Vorderer Gosausee
The Vorderer Gosausee is the most popular and accessible of the lakes. It has a turquoise-green color and reflects the peaks of the Gosaukamm range and the Dachstein glacier. The lake is also home to various fish species, such as trout, char and carp.
Vorderer Gosausee Trail
One of the best ways to explore the Vorderer Gosausee is to walk around it on an easy and scenic trail. The trail is about 4 km long and takes about an hour to complete. It is suitable for families with children and strollers. Along the way, you can admire the views of the lake and the mountains, stop at one of the benches or picnic areas, or dip your feet in the water.
Laserer Alpin Klettersteig
If you are looking for more adventure, you can try the Laserer Alpin Klettersteig, a via ferrata route that climbs up the above the lake.
The Laserer alpin Klettersteig is a via ferrata route that runs directly above the water of the Vorderer Gosausee. It is a well-secured pleasure via ferrata with 420 climbing meters. The tour is very impressive thanks to the constant view of the Dachstein and the proximity to the lake .
Laserer Alpin Klettersteig route
- The route starts at the parking lot near the Gosausee lake, where you can also find a cable car station and a restaurant. From there, you walk along the east side of the lake for about 15 minutes to reach the entrance.
- The route consists of several sections with different difficulties and features. The first section is the nose traverse (short A, then B to C), which leads to the sky ladder (B/C), where you reach the rock slabs of the panorama traverse (first C, then B). Then you climb through beautiful plate-like Dachstein limestone on the Michelangelo (B to C) to the highest point. The stone trough (B) impresses with a magnificent view of the Gosau glacier and Dachstein. In a large loop over the photo corner (B/C) and the theater arena (B) you reach the rope bridge (B). Over this and the rung row Dachstein staircase (B) up to the eagle’s nest (A, logbook). Over the balcony (ramp, B) you reach the exit directly at the entrance .
- The route takes about 50-60 minutes to complete and offers amazing views of the Gosau Valley, the Dachstein massif and the Hallstatt glacier .
- The route can be done in both directions, but most people prefer to start from the parking lot and end at the same place.
- The route is open from mid-May to mid-October, depending on the snow conditions. It is recommended to check the weather forecast and the route conditions before attempting it .
Swimming in Vorderer Gosausee
If you are looking for a refreshing and scenic way to cool off in summer, you should try swimming in the Lake Gosau. This turquoise-green lake offers a stunning view of the Dachstein Glacier and the surrounding mountains. You can enjoy a free and natural swimming experience, as there are no designated bathing areas or fees. You can simply find a spot that suits you and dive into the clear water. Just make sure to respect the environment and leave no trace behind. Swimming in the Lake Gosau is a unique and memorable experience that you will not regret.
Diving in Gosausee
Do you want to explore the underwater world of Lake Gosau? This lake is a great spot for diving, as it offers clear water and amazing views of the glacier and the mountains. You can fill your cylinder at the filling station near the Gosausee gasthof, where you can also buy a dive card for € 20,00 per year. If you need diving lessons or equipment, you can contact Tauchcenter, a professional diving school and shop in Thalheim. The owner, Gerold Schneider, has over 20 years of experience and can teach you the basics or the advanced skills of diving. He also organizes guided dives in Lake Gosau every year. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the beauty and mystery of Lake Gosau from a different perspective.
Gosausee boat rental
If you want to have fun on Lake Gosau, you can rent boats from June to September. You can pick from electric boats, pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards and explore the lake and the view of the Dachstein. You can get more information at Boat rental.
3. Gosaulacke
The Gosaulacke is a small pond that lies between the Vorderer and Hinterer Gosausee. It is fed by a stream that flows from the glacier and often dries up in summer. The pond is not very interesting by itself, but it marks the start of the hike to the Hinterer Gosausee.
4. Hinterer Gosausee
The Hinterer Gosausee is the hidden gem of Gosausee. It is a smaller and deeper lake that lies at 1143 m above sea level, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests. The lake has a dark-blue color and a mysterious atmosphere.
Hinterer Gosausee Trail
To reach the Hinterer Gosausee from the Vorderer Gosausee, you need to hike for about 1.5 hours on a moderate trail that ascends about 200 m. The trail follows the stream that connects the lakes and passes by Gosaulacke and some waterfalls and bridges. The trail is well-marked and mostly shaded by trees.
Once you arrive at the Hinterer Gosausee, you can walk around it on a short and easy trail that takes about 20 minutes. You can also find some benches and fire pits along the shore, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature. At the beggining of lake is a good scenic point for taking pictures.
Holzmeister Alm
If you are hungry or thirsty after your hike, you can visit the Holzmeister Alm, a traditional alpine hut that serves local food and drinks. The hut is located near the Hinterer Gosausee and offers a cozy atmosphere and a sunny terrace. You can try some specialties like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake with jam), Kaspressknödel (cheese dumplings) or Almjause (cold platter with cheese, ham and bread).
Scenic Viewpoint
For a stunning view of the Hinterer Gosausee and the Dachstein glacier, you can climb up to a scenic viewpoint that is located above the hut. The viewpoint is reachable by a short and steep trail that takes about 15 minutes. From there, you can see the whole lake and the surrounding mountains in all their glory.
Trail No. 614 to Adamekhütte
If you are feeling adventurous and have more time, you can continue your hike from the Hinterer Gosausee to the Adamekhütte, a mountain hut that lies at 2196 m above sea level, near the Dachstein glacier. The hike is challenging and takes about 4 hours one way. You need to follow the trail no. 614 that goes through a karst landscape with rocks, caves and sinkholes. The trail is steep and exposed in some parts, so you need to be careful and wear proper shoes. Along the way, you can enjoy amazing views of the Gosau Valley and the Dachstein massif.
The Adamekhütte is a cozy and rustic hut that offers accommodation and food for hikers. You can stay there overnight or just have a snack and a drink before heading back. The hut is open from mid-June to mid-September and from mid-December to mid-April.
We covered the almost 8 km partly in thunderstorms and drizzle, partly also in the scorching sun 😅 The many small waterfalls flowed even faster than on the way there. The sky was mystical, with all the clouds. A really wonderful hike, recommended to imitate. If you would like to cover even more kilometers, you can climb the mountain after the Holzmeister Alm and hike to the Adamekhütte 🥾⛰️🎒
5. Gosauseen
If you are looking for a place to enjoy nature and adventure in Austria, you should visit Gosauseen, a trio of lakes in the Salzkammergut region. The lakes are surrounded by the stunning Dachstein Mountains and offer a variety of activities for all tastes and levels. You can hike around the Vorderer Gosausee, the largest and most accessible lake, and admire its turquoise-green water and glacier views. You can also continue to the Gosaulacke, a small pond that connects to the Hinterer Gosausee, a smaller and deeper lake that lies in a secluded valley.
Alternatively, you can take the cable car to the Zwieselalm, a high plateau with more hiking trails, via ferrata routes and panoramic views. Whether you want to swim, dive, climb, bike or just relax, Gosauseen has something for everyone. You can spend a day exploring the lakes or stay longer and visit the different huts that offer food and accommodation. Gosauseen is a perfect destination for travelers who love nature and adventure. Lets take a look what the area offers:
If you want to see the lake from a different perspective, rent a boat or a stand-up paddle board and paddle on the water. The views from the water are amazing.
6. Gosausee wandern – hiking, trails, huts
Gosausee is a paradise for hikers of all levels and preferences. You can find many hiking trails and huts around Gosausee that offer different challenges and views. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Vorderer Gosausee Trail
As mentioned before, this is an easy and scenic trail that goes around the Vorderer Gosausee. It is suitable for families with children and strollers.
Adamekhütte
This is a challenging hike that goes from the Hinterer Gosausee to the Adamekhütte, a mountain hut near the Dachstein glacier. It takes about 4 hours one way and requires good fitness and equipment.
Simonyhütte
This is another challenging hike that goes from the Vorderer Gosausee to the Simonyhütte, a mountain hut that lies at 2206 m above sea level, on the edge of the Hallstatt glacier. It takes about 5 hours one way and requires good fitness and equipment.
Hoher Dachstein
This is the ultimate hike for experienced mountaineers who want to reach the highest peak of the Dachstein massif at 2995 m above sea level. The hike starts from the Simonyhütte or the Adamekhütte and takes about 3 hours one way. It involves climbing on rocks, snow and ice, using crampons, ropes and harnesses. The hike is only possible with a guide and in good weather conditions.
7. Gasthof Gosause
If you are looking for a place to stay near Gosausee, you can choose the Gasthof Gosausee, a family-run hotel that is located right next to the Vorderer Gosausee. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with lake or mountain views, a restaurant with regional cuisine, a bar with live music, a sauna and a playground. The hotel is open all year round and has a friendly and helpful staff.
8. Cable car Gosaukammbahn
Gosaukammbahn / Zwiesealm is the name of the cable car service and the mountain station that connects the lake Gosausee with the Zwieselalm mountain in the Dachstein West hiking region.
Do you want to go from Gosau to the Zwieselalm mountain station? You can take the cable car Gosaukammbahn. It is a convenient and fun way to travel. Moreover, you can see Gosausee and its surroundings from the cable car. The cable car runs from May to October and from December to March. The round-trip ticket is 19 euros for adults and 9.5 euros for children.
9. Zwieselalm
The Zwieselalm is a high plateau at an altitude of about 1500 m, where you can find several mountain huts, hiking trails, via ferrata routes and panoramic views of Gosausee, the glacier and the mountain range.
Zwieselalmhütte
- The Zwieselalm Hut is a cozy and rustic alpine hut that is located on the Zwieselalm mountain at 1440 m above sea level, in the Dachstein West hiking region. It offers food, drinks and accommodation for hikers and bikers .
- The hut is open from mid-June to late September and has 20 beds and 10 mattresses in shared rooms. The prices range from 15 to 25 euros per person per night, depending on the season and the membership of the Alpine Club .
- The hut serves traditional and regional dishes with organic and local ingredients. It also participates in the campaign “Frühstück auf der Alm” (Breakfast on the Alm), where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with fresh products from the alpine pastures .
- The hut is a perfect starting point for various activities in the Dachstein West hiking and biking region. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Gosau Valley, the Dachstein massif and the Hallstatt glacier. You can also access several hiking trails, via ferrata routes and ski slopes from the hut .
- The hut can be reached by taking the cable car Gosaukammbahn from Gosau to the Zwieselalm mountain station, where the hut is located just a few minutes away. Alternatively, you can hike up from Gosau or from other huts in the area
10. Gablonzer hütte
The Gablonzer Hut is a traditional alpine hut that is located on the Zwieselalm mountain at 1520 m above sea level, near the top station of the Gosaukammbahn cable car. It offers food, drinks and accommodation for hikers and skiers .
- The hut is open all year round and has 40 beds and 20 mattresses in shared rooms. The prices range from 15 to 25 euros per person per night, depending on the season and the membership of the Alpine Club.
- The hut is part of the campaign “So schmecken die Berge” (This is how the mountains taste) and has received the award “Genießerhütte” (connoisseur’s hut). The meals are always freshly prepared with organic and local ingredients .
- The hut is a perfect starting point for various activities in the Dachstein West hiking and skiing region. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Gosau Valley, the Dachstein massif and the Hallstatt glacier. You can also access several hiking trails, via ferrata routes and ski slopes from the hut .
- The hut can be reached by taking the cable car Gosaukammbahn from Gosau to the Zwieselalm mountain station, where the hut is located just a few minutes away. Alternatively, you can hike up from Gosau or from other huts in the area .
www.gablonzerhuette.at, Gosau 445 · 4825 Gosau
11. Klettersteig Donnerkogel
If you are looking for a thrilling and scenic adventure on the Zwieselalm, you might want to try the Klettersteig Donnerkogel, a via ferrata route that leads to the top of the Donnerkogel mountain at 2054 m above sea level. This route is not for the faint-hearted, as it is rated C/D+ and requires good fitness and equipment. However, if you are up for the challenge, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Gosau Valley and the Dachstein glacier from the summit. The route takes about 2-3 hours and offers some exciting features, such as a 40-meter-long ladder that spans a deep gorge, a rock formation that looks like an eagle’s nest, and a steep and exposed climb along the northwest ridge.
Klettersteig Donnerkogel Route
The Klettersteig Donnerkogel is a via ferrata route that climbs up the Donnerkogel mountain above the Gosausee lake in Upper Austria. It is rated C/D and requires good fitness and equipment .
- The route starts at the Gablonzer Hutte, which is located at the top of the Gosaukammbahn cable car. The cable car operates from May to October and from December to March. The round-trip ticket costs 19 euros for adults and 9.5 euros for children .
- The route has four sections with different difficulties and highlights. The first section is the hardest one, as it requires a steep and strenuous climb up the Kaiser-Verschneidung (C/D). Then, the second section features the famous 40-meter-long Stairway to Heaven, a giant ladder that spans a deep gorge (B). Next, the third section involves a short and exposed ascent to the Donnermandl (C/D), a rock formation that marks the summit of the Kleiner Donnerkogel. The fourth section follows the former Preuß-Route along the northwest ridge to the summit of the Grosser Donnerkogel .
- The route takes about 3 hours to complete and offers amazing views of the Gosau Valley, the Dachstein massif and the Hallstatt glacier .
- The route can be done in both directions, but most people prefer to start from the Gablonzer Hutte and end at the Zwieselalm, where they can take another cable car down to Gosau. Alternatively, they can hike back to the Gablonzer Hutte on a normal hiking trail .
- The route is open from mid-June to mid-September and from mid-December to mid-April, depending on the snow conditions. It is recommended to check the weather forecast and the route conditions before attempting it.
12. Gosausee in winter
Winter is another wonderful season to visit Gosausee, when the lake freezes over and the snow covers the landscape. Winter is also less crowded and more affordable than summer, but you need to be prepared for cold temperatures and limited services. Some facilities, such as the cable car or the boat rental, may be closed or operate on reduced hours. You should also be aware of the avalanche risk and follow the safety signs and rules.
Winter is a perfect time to enjoy the snow activities at Gosausee, such as skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding or ice skating. You can access some of the ski slopes and trails from the lake shore. Or take the cable car to the Zwieselalm for more options. You can also rent skis, snowboards, snowshoes or sleds at the lake shore or at nearby ski resorts.
13. Webcam Gosausee
If you want to see the current view of Gosausee, you can check out some webcams that show the lake and the mountains. Here are some webcams that you can access online:
- Webcam Gasthaus Gosausee: This webcam is located at the Gasthaus Gosausee, a hotel and restaurant next to the Vorderer Gosausee (the front lake). It shows the lake and the Dachstein glacier in the background. You can see the webcam here.
- Webcam Zwieselalm: This webcam is located at the Zwieselalm mountain station, where you can take the cable car Gosaukammbahn from Gosau. It shows the panoramic view of the Gosau Valley, the Dachstein massif and the Hallstatt glacier. You can see the webcam here.
14. Accommodation near Gosausee
Gosausee has many accommodation options for different budgets and tastes. You can choose from hotels, guesthouses and apartments that are close to the lake. Some of the best accommodation options near Gosausee are:
Hotel Sommerhof
Hotel Sommerhof: This is a luxurious and relaxing accommodation near Gosausee, you might want to consider this 4-star hotel. It has cozy rooms with balconies where you can enjoy the views of the mountains and the valley. Moreover, it has a spa area with indoor pool and sauna where you can pamper yourself and unwind. Additionally, it has a restaurant with regional cuisine where you can taste the local specialties and a children’s playground where you can have fun with your family. Furthermore, it is situated about 4 km from Gosausee and has a free shuttle service to the cable car station. The prices are also reasonable, starting from 120 euros per night for a double room with breakfast. You can book online at www.sommerhof.at or call +43 6136 8229 for more information.
Gästehaus Wallmann
Gästehaus Wallmann: You might want to consider this family-run guesthouse. It has comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge where you can socialize with other guests. Moreover, it has a garden with barbecue facilities where you can enjoy the fresh air and the views. Additionally, it has free Wi-Fi and a free parking space. Furthermore, it is situated about 2 km from Gosausee and has reasonable prices, starting from 60 euros per night for a double room with breakfast. You can book online at www.gaestehaus-wallmann.at or call +43 6136 8255 for more information.
Ferienwohnung Laserer
Ferienwohnung Laserer: If you are looking for a comfortable and spacious accommodation near Gosausee, you might want to consider this apartment. It has fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and balconies in each room. Moreover, it can fit up to 6 people and has amenities such as a washing machine, a dishwasher, a TV and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, it is situated about 3 km from Gosausee and has a free parking space. Furthermore, the prices are reasonable, starting from 80 euros per night for the whole apartment. You can book online at www.laserer.at or call +43 664 7363 1630 for more information.
Conclusion
Gosausee is a stunning destination for travelers who love nature and adventure. Whether you visit in summer or winter, you will find plenty of things to do and see at this beautiful lake and its surroundings. You will also experience the culture and history of this region, which is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gosausee is a place like no other, where you can admire the views of the Dachstein glacier from different angles and perspectives. It is a place where you can connect with yourself and with nature in a peaceful and relaxing way. I hope you enjoyed reading this article and found it useful for your trip to Gosausee. If you have any feedback or questions about this article, please feel free to share them with me.
You can also explore the nearby villages and towns, such as Hallstatt, Obertraun or Bad Goisern, and discover their rich history and charm. Gosausee is one of the best places to see near Hallstatt.