Vorderer Gosausee

Discover Vorderer Gosausee, Austria’s pristine alpine lake. Learn about parking, hiking trails, swimming spots, boat rentals, winter activities, nearby dining at Gasthof Gosausee, and scenic viewpoints like Gosaulacke and Hinterer Gosausee. Plan your perfect trip with insider tips and explore year-round attractions at this breathtaking destination

How to Reach Vorderer Gosausee

Directions to Vorderer Gosausee

Salzburg to Vorderer Gosausee

• Distance: Approximately 75 km (about 1.5 hours by car).
• Route: Take the A10 motorway south towards Golling, then exit towards Abtenau and continue along the B166 road to Gosau. Follow signs for Gosausee.
• Public Transport: To get from Salzburg to Gosau by train, you’ll typically start at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (Salzburg Hbf). First, take a train towards Attnang-Puchheim; this leg of the journey takes about 45 to 50 minutes. Trains from Salzburg to Attnang-Puchheim run frequently throughout the day. After arriving at Attnang-Puchheim, you’ll need to transfer to another train heading to Steeg-Gosau. This segment of the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes. Keep in mind that there may be limited departures, so it’s wise to check the schedule ahead of time​. Then transfer to a regional bus heading to Gosau and continue to Gosausee. Overall, the entire trip can take approximately 2.5 hours, depending on transfer times and train connections.

Hallstatt to Vorderer Gosausee

• Distance: About 15 km (around 25 minutes by car).
• Route: Follow the B166 road west towards Gosau, and from Gosau center, follow signs directing you to Gosausee.
• Public Transport: From Hallstatt, take a taxi or bus via Gosau, with options to arrange a transfer for convenience.

Vienna to Vorderer Gosausee

• Distance: Roughly 300 km (about 3.5 hours by car).
• Route: Take the A1 motorway west towards Salzburg, then transfer to the A10 towards Bischofshofen. Follow the B166 road through Gosau to Gosausee.
• Public Transport: travel from Vienna to Steeg-Gosau Bahnhof by train, you have a couple of options. First, you can take an ÖBB Intercity train from Wien Hauptbahnhof, which typically takes about 3 hours and costs around €50. Alternatively, you can opt for the WEST bahn service from Wien Westbahnhof, which takes approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes, followed by a transfer to another ÖBB train at Attnang-Puchheim that takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes to reach Steeg-Gosau. Then transfer to a regional bus heading to Gosau and continue to Vorderer Gosausee.

Munich to Vorderer Gosausee

• Distance: Around 200 km (about 2.5 hours by car).
• Route: Follow the A8 motorway towards Salzburg, then continue on the A10 south. Exit towards Abtenau and take the B166 road through Gosau to Gosausee.
• Public Transport: You can take a train from Munich to Attnang-Puchheim. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Attnang-Puchheim, transfer to a regional train (REX) that goes directly to Steeg-Gosau. Then transfer to a regional bus heading to Gosau and continue to Vorderer Gosausee. Or go to Hallstatt train station. Note that the train will drop you off across the lake from Hallstatt, requiring a short ferry ride to the town. This ferry operates frequently and offers beautiful views of Hallstatt. From Hallstatt you either take a taxi or use a local bus service to Vorderer Gosausee.

Vorderer Gosausee Parking

Location of Parking Areas

• Main Parking Lot: There is a large parking area located at the entrance to Vorderer Gosausee, close to the lake and the trailheads. It’s easy to spot as you approach the lake.
• Overflow Parking: During peak seasons, additional overflow parking spots may be available along the road leading to the main lot. However, it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot near the lake.

Main Upper Parking Lot #1: 02 min.
Lower Parking Lot #2: 07 min.
Other Overflow Parking Lot #3: 15 min.
Car park #4: 17 min.
Car park #5: 20 min.

Parking Costs

• Free Parking (Limited Availability): Some parking areas further from the lake may be free, especially in off-peak seasons, though they may require a longer walk.

Additional Notes:

• Payment Options: Only coins or cards are accepted; no banknotes.
• New Day Ticket Requirement: A day ticket is now required for hikers heading to Hinterer Gosausee, Adamekhütte or Simonyhütte impacting accessibility for locals and frequent visitors.

This change has sparked frustration among locals who feel that rising fees and tourism-focused policies make Austria’s beautiful lakes less accessible to residents, turning popular spots like Vorderer Gosausee into primarily tourist destinations.

Proximity to the Lake and Accessibility

• Close Access to the Lake: The main parking area is less than a 5-minute walk to the lake, making it easy to reach Vorderer Gosausee, hiking trails, swimming and boat rental areas. This proximity is ideal for families, as well as visitors with limited mobility.
• Accessibility for All: The path from the parking area to the lake is flat and well-maintained, making it wheelchair-accessible and suitable for strollers.

Activities at Vorderer Gosausee

Vorderer Gosausee offers a variety of outdoor activities for every adventurer. Swimmers can dive into the crystal-clear alpine water, while those looking for a leisurely day on the lake can rent boats that provide breathtaking views. Hikers will discover trails suitable for all skill levels, ranging from gentle lake paths to more challenging routes. If you’re ready for an adrenaline rush, tackle the Laserer Alpin Klettersteig, or take the scenic route to Gosaulacke and Hinterer Gosausee, where you can fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Swimming in Vorderer Gosausee

• Water Conditions: Vorderer Gosausee, sitting at an altitude of 933 meters, is renowned for its pristine, clear water. The lake’s maximum depth reaches 69 meters in summer but can be as low as 36 meters during winter due to seasonal water level fluctuations. This clarity, especially in the summer months, makes it popular with divers who appreciate its visibility.
• Best Months for Swimming: The ideal time for swimming is from late June to early September when the water is warmest and the lake reaches its highest level and surface area. However, even in peak summer, the alpine water can be quite chilly, so it’s best suited for a quick dip or a refreshing swim rather than prolonged swimming.

Boat rental Vorderer Gosausee

Gosausee offers a delightful selection of boats, including electric boats or pedal boats for ride, swimming or just to relax.. Advance reservations for boats are not available. Stand-up paddleboarding is another exciting option, allowing paddlers to glide across the tranquil waters against the stunning backdrop of the Dachstein massif. Remember to follow boating rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable time on this beautiful, natural lake.

Here’s a table summarizing the boat rental prices at Gosausee:

For more details, visit Gosausee Boats.

Gosausee stand up paddle

Gosausee stand up paddle – paddleboarding (SUP) on Gosausee offers an incredible experience with serene waters and views of the Dachstein Mountains. The lake’s calm waters make it ideal for all skill levels, and it’s particularly enjoyable for beginners who are getting used to balancing on the board.

Hiking Trails Around Vorderer Gosausee

Around Vorderer Gosausee: Enjoy easy, scenic paths with stunning lake views, perfect for families and leisurely walks. The hike around Vorderer Gosausee is approximately 4.5 kilometers in length. It generally takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, making it a relatively easy and popular trail. The scenery around the lake is stunning, especially along the northern shore

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Vorderer, Gosaulacke, and Hinterer Gosausee: A scenic route that connects the three lakes, offering breathtaking landscapes and great photo opportunities. If you’re interested in a longer trek, you can combine this hike with a visit to Hinterer Gosausee (Upper Lake Gosau), which extends the route to about 13.8 kilometers and typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours

Gosau Lake to Adamek Hut and Simony Hut: The trail to Adamek Hut is a challenging 22.5 km out-and-back route near Gosau, Upper Austria. It begins as an easy hike on a wide forest road but becomes steeper as you approach the glacier forefield of the Great Gosau Glacier. This popular area for hiking, rock climbing, and via ferrata sees many visitors, especially from July to October. The well-marked paths lead through beautiful mountain terrain and culminating in stunning views at the hut.

Hiking to Zwieselalm: An adventurous trail featuring panoramic vistas, ideal for experienced hikers.

Gablonzer Hut: A rewarding hike that offers delightful cuisine and stunning surroundings.

Via Ferrata – Laserer Alpin Steig

Via Ferrata Laserer Alpin at Gosausee offers an exciting climbing adventure in the heart of Austria’s Dachstein Salzkammergut region. It combines scenic route, spectacular views, and thrilling challenges, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced climbers. We have been there with our kids and they loved it.

Dining and Refreshment Option at Vorderer Gosausee

Gasthof Gosausee – Lakeside Dining Experience

At Gasthof Gosausee, diners can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine while taking in stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for families and groups. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a table with the best views.

Scenic Spots and Nature Highlights

Gosaulacke – Along the Trail to Hinterer Gosausee

Gosaulacke is a stunning, shallow lake situated between Vorderer and Hinterer Gosausee, renowned for its vibrant colors that change with the seasons. In the warmer months, its surface reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for photography. The trail leading to Gosaulacke offers several vantage points, making it an ideal spot for capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Salzkammergut region.

Hinterer Gosausee – The Pristine Upper Lake

Hinterer Gosausee, or Upper Lake Gosau, captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The hike to this stunning lake typically takes 4 to 5 hours round-trip, depending on your fitness level. As you ascend, you’ll enjoy spectacular views that unfold with each step. Hikers often express their awe, with one enthusiastic visitor stating, “Oh my God, what a place!” Along the trail, you can take breaks on benches and even spot grazing cattle, enhancing the charming alpine experience. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as some sections can be a bit challenging.

Upon reaching the lake, the striking alpine waters framed by towering peaks create an unforgettable scene. After soaking in the views, head over to Holzmeister Alm, a cozy retreat offering delicious meals. This popular restaurant boasts an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5, making it a favorite among hikers looking to refuel. The combination of stunning scenery and delightful dining ensures that your visit to Hinterer Gosausee will be both memorable and fulfilling

Vorderer Gosausee in Winter

In winter, Vorderer Gosausee becomes a captivating landscape, drawing outdoor enthusiasts eager to embrace the season’s offerings. Popular activities include snowshoeing and winter hiking, which allow visitors to traverse the serene, snow-blanketed terrain while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Ski Gosau as part of Dachstein West Ski Resort offers excellent skiing opportunities, catering to all skill levels.

The unique charm of Vorderer Gosausee during the winter months includes the enchanting scenery created by the snowy surroundings and the frozen lake, which offers a picturesque backdrop for winter sports and leisurely strolls. For those looking to gear up for their winter activities, various rental options for snow sports equipment are available in the area, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning winter landscape​

Visitor Reviews

Travelers consistently praise Vorderer Gosausee for its breathtaking natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors share unique experiences, such as encountering local wildlife along the trails and marveling at the stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks in the lake’s waters. In addition, reviewers often highlight the area’s tranquility, noting it as an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Phrases like “the views are simply mesmerizing” and “a hidden gem in the Alps” capture the sentiments of those who have explored this stunning location.

Beautiful, swimming very pleasant. When you stand in the water for a while, perch will come to perch 😉 A beautiful, peaceful walk to the upper lake.

A fantastic place that everyone who loves nature and mountains must visit. A place literally like a fairy tale. Those who have not seen it will not believe it.

The lake is very pretty and is surrounded by impressive mountains. There is a pedestrian path around the lake and it is possible to go around it entirely. The length of the walk is about 5 kilometers. The trail is flat with a gravel surface. You can pass with a stroller or a disabled person in a wheelchair without any problems. There are several parking lots near the lake that are free in the summer, so you shouldn’t have a problem parking. There is also a “GosauKammBahn” cable car station by the lake, which you can take for about €20 to the ridge, where you can take an easy walk with great views of the surrounding

Conclusion: Why Vorderer Gosausee Should Be on Your Travel List

Vorderer Gosausee is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and serene landscapes. With its stunning alpine backdrop and a wide range of activities – such as hiking, swimming, and winter sports – it appeals to every type of traveler. Moreover, visitors consistently rave about the lake’s pristine waters and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, which create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely day by the water, tackle challenging hiking trails, or immerse yourself in the tranquility of the area, Vorderer Gosausee has something special to offer.

In addition to its natural allure, the rich biodiversity and peaceful atmosphere enhance the overall experience. With nearby dining options and winter activities readily available, it’s clear that Vorderer Gosausee deserves a prominent spot on your travel itinerary. By planning your visit during the right season and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a memorable adventure in this stunning location. Therefore, don’t miss the chance to Vorderer Gosausee; it might just become the highlight of your trip.