Vacation in Austria: hidden lakes, via ferratas, and gorges – 20 tips on what to see

Most people know Austria as a place of beautiful lakes like Wolfgangsee, Attersee, or Lake Constance. But trust me – this Alpine country has much more to offer. Alongside famous destinations, there are quiet corners, hidden via ferratas, majestic castles, and spots where it’s just you and the mountains.

In this article, we’ll look at more than 20 tips for your vacation, combining well-known attractions with less-explored spots. If these aren’t enough, check out my map with nearly 350 tips.

Hallstatt and less-visited waterfalls

Where to stay in Hallstatt?

Finding accommodation directly in Hallstatt at a normal price is a challenge. It’s a UNESCO site, so prices will simply be higher. For example, Fenix Hall Boutique is one of the more affordable yet still nice options. However, I recommend staying outside Hallstatt but still by the lake, for example at Metzgerwirt Vieh Heli.

What to see nearby?

Hallstatt needs no introduction – the view of pastel houses by the lake is all over Instagram. But just outside the village, you’ll find the lesser-known Waldbachstrub Wasserfall, where you’ll encounter very few people. It’s not an ultra-giant waterfall, but it’s a nice walk and you can do a loop with a view of Lake Hallstattersee.

• Tip: There are fewer tourists in the morning and the sun beautifully illuminates the mist over the waterfall; we met so few people in the morning that we could count them on one hand.
• Route: 3 km round trip from the parking lot, but you can also do a loop for the lake view.
• Elevation gain: approx. 200 m
• Difficulty: easy, suitable for children and seniors

Ameisstein – a view of a beautiful lake without the crowds

Forget overcrowded viewpoints – Ameisstein above Lake Almsee offers a magnificent panorama. Plus, you can sleep in your car by the lake, and you’ll find beautiful romantic swings along the way.

• Difficulty: easy – moderate
• Route length: 5 km loop
• Elevation gain: 320 m

Kleiner Ödsee – mountain swimming

This small lake in the Totes Gebirge has turquoise water and a mountain backdrop; you can take a pleasant loop around other nearby lakes. You won’t be completely alone on hot days, but you don’t have to worry about big crowds either, and you can combine the trip with the previous tip.

Traunfall – a forgotten waterfall on the way to the lakes

Traunfall isn’t just one waterfall – it’s a cascade of water steps where the river plunges sharply through narrow rocky gorges.

• Access: parking right by the viewpoint, a short path leads to the waterfalls
• Waterfall height: around 12 m
• Cascade length: several hundred meters

Canyoning and rafting

Schafberg – a panorama of four lakes

One of the most iconic mountains in the Salzkammergut, like an Austrian Seceda. In good weather, you can see not only Wolfgangsee, but also Mondsee, Attersee, and Traunsee. You can choose:

• On foot: from St. Wolfgang, 17 km, moderate – difficult
• Cog railway: price approx. €45 round trip, takes 35 minutes

where to stay nearby?

The highly-rated Grafbauer is an ideal choice around Wolfgangsee.

Schrecksee

For me, one of the most beautiful Austrian lakes. On this trek, you have a choice: either save money and take the more difficult red trail from Tannheim—you probably won’t manage the loop around all the lakes in one day, but the main highlight is Schrecksee, which will simply blow your mind.

Or you can pay 8 euros for the toll road and parking and do a 19 km loop around the lakes (Elevation gain approx. 1,200 m). Note: you can only enter the parking lot until 8:00 AM and leave no earlier than 5:00 PM! Cash only.

Gosausee – the mirror of Dachstein

When the Dachstein mountains reflect in the surface of Gosausee, it’s a sight you won’t forget. You can also combine it with a visit to the nearby Hinterer Gosausee.

• Loop around the lake: 4.5 km or a 13 km loop including the back lake
• Difficulty: easy

Where to stay nearby?

A highly-rated apartment at a reasonable price. There’s also a wellness area in the building, which is always nice after a hike.

Drachenwand & Intersport Via Ferrata

Some of the most famous via ferratas in Austria, but they are truly worth it. You’ll find the Intersport one right by Gosausee.

Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, go in the late afternoon when you’ll have the ferratas almost to yourself. Just be careful during the descent; plan it so you’re walking while it’s still light. Equipment rental is available at Intersport in Mondsee.

• Length: 400 m
• Elevation gain: approx. 300 m
• Difficulty: C/D – for experienced climbers

In my map, you’ll find another 25 tips for via ferratas that are worth it during your vacation in Austria.

Ötschergräben – the Austrian Grand Canyon

This gorge in Lower Austria has earned the nickname “Austrian Grand Canyon” thanks to its steep walls, wild river, and waterfalls lining the route. It’s a paradise for nature lovers who want adventure without extreme effort.

• Tip: It’s best to take the Ötscherhias – Mira Waterfall – Lassingfall route and back, as it combines the most beautiful sections and avoids long returns on asphalt.
• Route length: 9.8 km
• Elevation gain: 419 m

Ötzi’s Cairn

In the Ötztal Valley, you can commemorate the famous iceman, Ötzi. It’s a beautiful trail with breathtaking views of glaciers.

Route: 23 km, 1,300 m elevation gain

Thermal baths Bad Ischl

Where to stay in Bad Ischl: Get away in Bad Ischl offers pleasant accommodation at a friendly price. Bad Ischl combines spa elegance and relaxation. Try the outdoor pools with mountain views at sunset – an atmosphere straight out of a movie.

Hohenwerfen Castle with eagle show

The Gothic castle above the Salzach Valley is like something out of a fairy tale; plus, it’s a center for falconry.

• Tip: Ideal to combine with a visit to Eisriesenwelt.
• Admission: approx. €16 per adult
• Bird of prey show: 11:15 AM and 3:15 PM

Highline 179 – a bridge between mountains

Near Reutte stands the Highline 179 suspension bridge, connecting Ehrenberg Castle and Fort Claudia.

• Bridge length: 406 m
• Height: 114 m above the valley
• Admission: €8 per adult

Tip: It sways a lot in the wind – not for everyone, but the view is unforgettable.

Liechtensteinklamm Gorge

One of the longest and deepest gorges in the Alps. Definitely more crowd-friendly than the Bärenschützklamm.

• Trail length: 1.5 km
• Elevation gain: minimal
• Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket – water sprays everywhere here.

Gollinger Wasserfall

Smaller than Krimml, but more picturesque and less crowded.

• Height: 75 m
• Access: 10-minute walk from the parking lot
• Tip: Ideal to combine with a tour of the town of Golling.

As mentioned, Austria isn’t just about the famous lakes. It was hard to choose from the 350 tips on my map. So if these weren’t enough, go check it out.

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