Top 20 Lakes in the Mostviertel

Visitors frequently praise Lake Lunz for its alpine idyll and impressive mountain backdrop, making it perfect for swimming. Erlaufsee is also highly regarded for its clear water and scenic reflections of surrounding peaks. The Greifenstein Danube Oxbow is popular for swimming and relaxing in nature.

The summer months are ideal for visiting the lakes, especially for swimming and water sports, as temperatures in lakes like Erlaufsee reach 19-22°C. Spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions for hiking around the lakes, with changing seasonal scenery. Some lakes, like Lunzer See, also host cultural events during summer evenings.

Erlaufsee is excellent for swimming with its crystal-clear, drinking-water-quality water, natural beach, slides, and jumping areas. You can also rent pedal, rowing, and electric boats there. Lake Lunz, Lower Austria's only natural swimming lake, is also very popular for swimming and boating. The Viehofner Lakes and Greifenstein Danube Oxbow also offer good swimming and relaxation opportunities.

Yes, many lakes offer scenic walking and hiking paths. Erlaufsee has a 3.5-kilometer circular path suitable for walkers and cyclists. Lake Lunz features an easy 3.5 to 4-kilometer loop trail, and is also the starting point for the scenic 'Drei-Seen-Tour' to Mittersee and Obersee. The Danube Oxbow Loop is a popular, well-prepared circular route for walking, hiking, or running.

Yes, Erlaufsee is a popular spot for both fishing and diving. Its clear visibility and depths attract divers, with an affiliated diving school available. Anglers can find various fish species, including perch, pike, char, and trout. Fishing permits may be required.

Many lakes in the Mostviertel are family-friendly. Erlaufsee offers a natural bathing beach with slides and a jumping area. Lake Lunz has a public beach (Seebad) with grassy areas and diving boards. The Viehofner Lakes in St. Pölten are also a popular local recreation area with lawns and swimming spots. Ebersdorfer Lake is freely accessible and offers a recreational area with activities.

The lakes in the Mostviertel are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. Erlaufsee is known for its reflective mountain peaks and wooden huts. Lake Lunz is nestled among impressive mountains, offering emerald green water and seasonal beauty from blooming daffodils to snow-covered peaks. The Kleiner Viehofner See is a nature reserve with reed beds and bird breeding grounds, while the Danube Oxbow Loop leads through diverse meadow and alluvial forest landscapes.

Beyond swimming and boating, the Mostviertel lakes are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, from easy walks to more challenging mountain hikes. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'View of Lake Erlaufsee' loop near Erlaufsee, or more difficult mountaineering routes in the wider region. You can explore more options in our guides for Easy hikes in the Mostviertel, Hiking in the Mostviertel, and Mountain Hikes in the Mostviertel.

Yes, Lake Lunz is home to the renowned Lunzer Seebühne (lake stage), which hosts cultural events and festivals like 'wellenklaenge' during the evenings, offering a unique backdrop for performances. Additionally, Erlaufsee can be reached by the historic Mariazell-Erlaufsee museum tram in summer, providing a unique experience.

Many lakes offer amenities for visitors. Erlaufsee has wooden huts and an excursion boat. Lake Lunz has lakeside restaurants and a snack bar at its public beach. The Großer Viehofner See features lawns, swimming areas, and restaurants. Ebersdorfer Lake is freely accessible and includes a lakeside restaurant and public toilets.

Access varies by lake. Erlaufsee can be reached by the Mariazell-Erlaufsee museum tram in summer. For other lakes, car access is generally good, and parking is often available. For instance, the Danube Oxbow Loop offers free parking in the town center or by the Danube. It's advisable to check specific lake information for detailed public transport options and parking availability.

While popular lakes like Erlaufsee and Lunzer See can attract crowds, the Mostviertel region also offers quieter spots. The Kleiner Viehofner See, for example, is a nature reserve, providing a more serene environment. Lakes like Moar-Lacke also offer a tranquil setting, often appreciated for their natural beauty away from the main tourist hubs.