Best attractions and places to see around Altausseer Lake are found in the Styrian Salzkammergut region of Austria. The lake is known for its crystal-clear, deep blue waters, often referred to as the "dark blue inkwell." It is framed by mountains such as the Loser, Trisselwand, and Tressenstein, offering a diverse natural landscape. The shores of the lake are largely undeveloped and have been under nature conservation since 1959.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Sorry, it's for recovery. The word "grading" is derived from "grading brine"...healing from the depths, a healing spring with the healing properties of the spring. The round graduation tower: In 1956, an open-air graduation tower was built near the Seeklause, where brine from the Altaussee salt mine is used. This brine drips over the fir branches of the graduation tower, and the atomization of the dripping brine releases essential oils, providing immediate relief for those suffering from bronchial congestion and asthma. The structure itself consists of a wooden frame that is filled with fir branches once a year. The filling of the graduation tower is entirely manual labor. The annual cleaning of the facility, chopping the fir branches in the forest, and filling it with the brine require approximately two weeks of work! These activities are carried out primarily by volunteers from the local community! The square graduation tower: This structure is covered with fir shingles, over which the brine trickles. Wind and sun contribute to the evaporation of the water in the brine. The trickling brine enriches the air in the graduation tower with salt, and the water droplets bind particles in the air. Effect: A stay in the graduation tower has a positive effect similar to that of sea air, for example, for people with pollen allergies, asthmatics, and others. The airways are moistened and the walls of the respiratory organs are positively influenced. The fine salt crystals have a secretion-loosening effect, intensively cleanse the airways of bacteria, and reduce swelling of the mucous membranes. This can not only provide relief and health benefits, but can also have a preventative effect. Regular use is therefore very beneficial. (https://www.altaussee.at/gradieranlage)
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How do you breathe in the graduation tower? Generally, simply being in the brine- and resin-rich air and breathing freely through your nose and mouth while walking casually is sufficient. The effect is enhanced by conscious, deep chest breathing. Pushing the chest orb forward while inhaling and exhaling completely while lowering the chest orb. The breathing techniques prescribed by your doctor apply in detail.
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The Graduation Tower as a Meal The Round Graduation Tower In 1956, an open-air graduation tower was built near the Seeklause, using brine from the Altaussee salt mine. This brine drips over the graduation tower's fir branches, and the atomization of the dripping brine releases essential oils that provide immediate relief for those suffering from bronchial congestion and asthma. The structure itself consists of a wooden frame that is filled with fir branches once a year. The filling of the graduation tower is entirely manual. The annual cleaning of the facility, chopping the fir branches in the forest, and filling the spaces require approximately two weeks of labor! These activities are primarily carried out through voluntary labor from the local community. The Square Graduation Tower This structure is covered with fir shingles, over which the brine trickles. Wind and sun contribute to the evaporation of the water in the brine. As the brine trickles down, the air in the graduation tower is enriched with salt, and the water droplets bind particles in the air. Effect: Spending time in the graduation tower has a positive effect similar to that of sea air, for example, for people with pollen allergies, asthmatics, and others. The airways are moistened and the walls of the respiratory organs are positively influenced. The fine salt crystals have a secretion-loosening effect, intensively cleanse the airways of bacteria, and reduce swelling of the mucous membranes. Regular use has a very beneficial effect. This can not only provide relief and health benefits, but can also have a preventative effect. Regular use is therefore very beneficial.
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The path is very easy to walk
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The centerpiece is Lake Altaussee itself, known for its crystal-clear, deep blue waters, ideal for swimming and boating. The lake is framed by impressive mountains like the Loser, Trisselwand, and Tressenstein. You can also discover the small Ostersee, a unique dead ice hole connected to the lake's water level.
Yes, a charming 7.4 km Lakeside Trail at Lake Altaussee encircles the lake, offering continuous views of the surrounding mountains, including the Totes Gebirge and the Dachstein Massif. For more extensive hiking, the region offers routes of varying difficulty, such as the 'View of Trisselwand – Seewiese Hunting Lodge, Altaussee loop' which is considered easy. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Altausseer Lake guide.
Just above Altaussee, the historic Altaussee Salt Mine (Salzwelten Altaussee) offers fascinating tours deep into the mountain. On the northeastern shore of the lake, you'll find the Seewiese Hunting Lodge, a former hunting lodge that now functions as an inn and was a filming location for a James Bond movie. The village of Altaussee itself is a climatic spa with traditional wooden houses, and the Altaussee Literature Museum documents the area's influence on writers and artists.
Visitors highly recommend the View of Trisselwand, which provides stunning vistas of the mighty rock faces and the lake. Another must-see is the View of the Dachstein, offering a wonderful natural spectacle of the glacier and mountains.
Yes, the Lake Altaussee itself is family-friendly, with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and boat rides. The Lakeside Trail is suitable for leisurely strolls with children. The Altaussee Salt Mine offers fun tours, including a miner's slide, which is popular with families. In winter, the Altaussee ski area on Loser mountain is suitable for families.
The pristine waters of Lake Altaussee are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and boat trips. You can explore the lake on Austria's first solar-powered catamaran, which departs from the Madlmaier landing stage, or rent rowboats and electric boats. The calm morning hours are particularly popular for paddleboarding.
Altausseer Lake offers attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking, with pleasant weather conditions. The region also hosts the Daffodil Festival every third year, featuring a boat parade of flower-covered sculptures. In early September, the traditional Kiritog Beer Tent festival takes place. Winter provides opportunities for quiet skiing at the Altaussee ski area on Loser mountain.
Several restaurants and cafes offer local specialties and fresh fish with beautiful lake views. The Seewiese Hunting Lodge, now an inn, is a popular stop for hikers, offering regional dishes. The Strandcafé Altaussee is another option for enjoying local gastronomy by the water.
Yes, the region offers road cycling routes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Loser Panoramic Road loop from Altaussee' or the 'Grundlsee loop from Kendl'. More details on cycling opportunities can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Altausseer Lake guide.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, particularly the crystal-clear, dark blue waters of Lake Altaussee and the dramatic mountain backdrop. The peaceful atmosphere, the scenic Lakeside Trail, and the regional specialties at places like the Seewiese Hunting Lodge are also highly appreciated.
Yes, the nearby town of Bad Aussee is considered the cultural capital of the Salzkammergut and is home to the Kammerhof Museum. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Hallstatt, with its Skywalk and salt mine, is also only about 30 minutes away, making it an excellent option for a day trip.


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