Carinthia’s unique combination of lake and mountain landscapes conceals many magnificent vantage points and "instagramable" photo spots, lots of which can easily be reached by car or on foot. Here is a Carinthia bucket list for those looking for breathtaking views without the effort.
A majestic spot in two senses. Emperor Franz Josef already enjoyed this magnificent view of Austria's highest mountain during his stay in Carinthia in 1856, albeit on a multi-hour hike. It's far easier to get there today, following the Grossglockner High Alpine Road by car or motorbike. The view of the highest mountain in Austria and the Pasterze below is as breathtaking now as it was back then.
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From Lake Wörthersee to the Nockberge, from the Seental to the peaks of the Karawanken, from Villach and the Dobratsch to Klagenfurt and the Koralm. This 360-degree view of Carinthia's wonderful lake and mountain landscape is truly unique – and within easy reach from the 100 m high wooden viewing tower on the Pyramidenkogel south of Lake Wörthersee. Just 441 steps or an elevator ride and you're at the top.
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The recently refreshed copper roof of Klagenfurt's almost 92 m high parish tower shines in new splendour. Anyone who climbs the 225 steps is rewarded with the most beautiful views of the city and the landscape that surrounds, from Lake Wörthersee to the Karawanken. Incidentally, Klagenfurt is the only city in Austria to have a full time tower keeper, Daniel Hofstätter.
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The Kitzelberg is a spectacular lookout point in Southern Carinthia that can be reached (almost) without effort. Because the 686 m high mountain is an easy and safe climb even for inexperienced hikers along a wide forest road that winds its way idyllically through the trees. The viewing platform offers wonderful views across the Jauntal, the deep blue Lake Klopein, dreamy Lake Turnersee and Carinthia's main river, the Drau. An epic photo opportunity!
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There is certainly no need for a filter when taking a photo of the brilliant turquoise Lake Faak from here. The Taborhöhe lookout point presents you with a magnificent view of the lake, its lovely surroundings and the nearby mountains. The 725 m peak can be reached on an easy one-hour hike from Egg or a short drive. At the top there is also a forest rope climbing park and a little restaurant with outdoor seating area.
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A small, bright white column pavilion on a rock ledge just above Pörtschach: the Hohe Gloriette is a worthwhile photo motif in itself. Those who are willing to take the half-hour walk from the town centre are rewarded with one of the most amazing views across Lake Wörthersee and a delightful, natural south-facing balcony.
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A top spot for the Instagram community in Carinthia and rightly so! The Klagenfurt Basin unfolds at the foot of the Magdalensberg and behind it the impressive peaks of the Karawanken. You can hike or drive up. The view is particularly impressive in autumn when a sea of fog lies below and the sun shines above. Tip: Be sure to include the lovingly restored "Troadkasten" hut on the south side of the summit in your shot.
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On fine, clear days you can look out across the Lavanttal and the Karawanken to Lake Wörthersee and even the Großglockner from here. Namely from the Sky Walk Brandlalm at the Bernsteiner Ofen, 1,447 m above sea level and high above St. Paul. This public viewing platform was built on a ledge and can even be reached by car via the well-developed Brandlalm. A short adventure trail leads around the Sky Walk.
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This viewing platform protrudes over the southern slope of the Lake Millstätter See plateau like the bow of a ship, presenting a unique panorama of lake, mountains and valleys. It is a magical place, particularly at sunset, above Lake Millstätter See.
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Which backdrop will it be? The Hohe Tauern with the Großglockner in the north, the Carnic Alps and Dolomites in the west or the Julian Alps in the south? Skywalk Gartnerkofel in the skiing and hiking area of Nassfeld-Pressegger See offers settings fit for the big screen and is one of the mountain region’s most popular photo points.
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Those with a head for heights should look down: the over 7 m self-supporting viewing platform on the south side of the Dobratsch gives a spectacular view down into the Rote Wand, the reddish-coloured rock face at about 1,500 m above sea level. All others can simply enjoy the delightful panorama from the Gailtal far into the Julian Alps. Easily reached from car park 6 of the Villach Alpine Road.
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A comfortable chairlift ride takes you to the highest summit hut in the Katschberg region and its unique panoramic view at 2,222 m above sea level. On a clear day you can see a whopping fifth of Austria from here. The Adlerhorst is not only known for this impressive view, but also for its regional specialties. Both can be enjoyed from a deckchair on the delightful sun terrace.
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The Danielsberg is a little mountain with a big view in the heart of the Mölltal valley. From the over 900-year-old church on the summit an enchanting panoramic view across the Mölltal, Lurnfeld and lower Drautal to the Karawanken awaits. The rustic Herkuleshof just a few metres further on can be reached by car – or as a stage destination on the long-distance Alpe Adria Trail.
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Strong nerves are required for this viewing platform located on Austria's highest dam, the Kölnbreinsperre in the Maltatal. Standing on a glass surface 200 m above the abyss, the brave can enjoy breathtaking views of the high-alpine landscape of the Hohe Tauern.
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