Lakes, rivers, streams and springs: water can be found everywhere on the sunny southern edge of the Alps. In Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost province, this element can probably be experienced with more diversity than anywhere else. From swimming to paddling, from fishing to savouring – what a voyage of discovery!
Small, idyllic bays that can only be reached by steering a rowing boat through branches. The morning "bay hikes" with local boat builder Gottfried Strobl offer a completely different way of experiencing Lake Millstätter See. The 1.5 hour rowing boat tour leads you across the lake to secluded spots and Gottfried has plenty to tell you about each one. Hop on board and allow yourself to be enchanted!
Draupaddelweg
Here a bird call, there the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind and in between only the rhythmic, almost meditative splash as the paddle enters the water. You can’t get closer to nature than canoeing or kayaking along the emerald green waters of Carinthia’s majestic river on the Drau Paddle Route. A total of 13 stages are already open. www.draupaddelweg.com/en/
Net fishing is a fine art and at Lake Millstätter See guests can look over the shoulder of fisherman Peter Sichrowsky. He takes those interested to collect the nets he put out the previous morning. As you help haul in Reinanken, pike and tench, Sichrowsky talks about the lifestyle and environment of the fish. Back on shore you can already smell the fried Reinanken that you then tuck into at Familienhotel Post.
The rockslide region is a unique wilderness at the foot of the Dobratsch that River Gail winds its way through. Level-headed and calm in places, faster and feistier in others. Travelling along this section by guided canoe tour guarantees diversity and breathtaking landscapes below mighty rock faces. The tour ends with a delicious Kärntner Jause at Lisis Almwirtschaft. More information
Wörthersee
A workout with benefits: that is stand-up paddle boarding, known as SUP for short. This trendy water sport is a brilliant way to enjoy nature whilst giving your body a complete workout. From hidden bathing spots to cool beach bars and sunny shores – no matter where you are heading, balance and the forward movement put almost all of the muscles to work. There are SUP offers at most of Carinthia’s lakes, from early morning to sunset.
Weissensee
The shimmering morning water carries the Genussfloß (Pleasure Raft) across Lake Weissensee to where bears, lynx, bearded vultures and griffons roam. Guests learn plenty about the region’s wild animals on this tour that leads through forests and meadows. Zoologist Manuela Siller gives insight into their behaviour, weather instincts and the interaction between flora and fauna around the lake. Finally the raft takes you back to shore, savouring Weissensee fish and fine wine on the way.
A thermal water pool in the heart of the forest. Doesn’t that sound divine? The thermal water comes out of the ground at a temperature of around 29 degrees in a forest near Villach, especially when the snow is melting and after heavy rainfall. These are the ideal days to take a dip in the Villacher Maibachl springs. A wonderfully relaxing and unique bathing experience!
The mountain world surrounding Lake Weissensee has 13 mountain bike trails covering more than 160 km up its sleeve. And it goes without saying that there are countless spots with delightful panoramic views of the lake along the way. Those who would like to get even closer to Lake Weissensee can opt for the Bike & Boat combination, where a ship or boat equipped for bikes transports you back at the end of the trail. More information
Holidays are the ideal time for a change in perspective, such as getting a view of the Carinthian lakes from below. With few exceptions, you can go diving in all of Carinthia’s lakes and each one has its own charm and distinctions. Light green Lake Weissensee, for example, resembles an underwater park. Lake Ossiacher See shows its dark side and mighty fish whilst Lake Millstätter See awaits with an incredible diversity of species.
Downward Dog on the pier? Completely standard at Lake Wörthersee. Since the "Namaste am See" yoga festival has been drawing thousands of guests to the shores of the lake at the beginning of each summer (in 2021 in October because of Covid19 precautions), it has become normal to see yogis here at any time of day. And there is one clear advantage: a completed practice can be rewarded with a dive into the refreshing water. Where else can you find this?
It is the splendour of former times paired with the comfort of the present that makes the Badehaus spas, restaurants and suites at Lake Wörthersee and Lake Millstätter See so special. We are talking about architecturally appealing wellness oases right by the shores that combine the exclusivity of a wellness hotel with the warmth of a spa. The lakes’ ever changing moods contribute to guests’ well-being. If it didn’t already exist, you would have to invent the Badehaus concept!
Wörthersee
You don’t need to book a cruise to enjoy on board holiday moments. There are many ships that cross Carinthia’s lakes and rivers, laden with cultural and culinary impressions. The Neue Bühne Villach always premieres its summer performance on board the Ossiacher See Schiff. There are themed cruises at Lake Millstatt with jazz or Italian flair. The Party Cruise at Lake Wörthersee’s Pink Lake Festival is already legendary, as is Sunday brunch aboard the ship. With this in mind, it’s time to cast off! More information
"Dinner for two" Hotel Koller
An island in the middle of the lake with palm trees, an elegantly laid table, a waiter that brings each course to you by motorboat. This is how they do romance at Lake Millstatt. Hotel Koller’s "Dinner for Two" package doesn’t just score with its truly unique setting for a candlelit date, but also with its gourmet seven-course menu and champagne aperitif. Available in June, July and August, be sure to book early to avoid disappointment!