Category: Lakes & swimming

The Faaker See near Villach is known for its especially intense turquoise-blue, which has earned it the nickname Caribbean flair. The striking Mittagskogel of the Karawanken rises before the southern shore. A small island in the lake and well-kept lidos make it a popular summer destination.HighlightsIntensely turquoise-blue waterMittagskogel of the Karawanken as a backdropSmall island…

The Weissensee in the Gailtal Alps is the highest of Carinthia’s large bathing lakes and known for its near-natural, strictly protected surroundings. In summer the water is of drinking quality; in winter it freezes over widely and forms the largest prepared natural ice surface in Europe for skating.HighlightsNear-natural lake with drinking-water qualityLargest natural ice surface in Europe in…

Évian-les-Bains on the French southern shore of Lake Geneva is famous worldwide for its mineral water and an elegant Belle Époque spa town. The lakeside promenade, thermal baths and boat trips across the largest alpine lake shape the resort, with the Savoy and Swiss Alps greeting in the background.HighlightsWorld-famous Évian mineral waterBelle Époque spa town on Lake GenevaLakeside promenade and boat tripsView across the largest alpine lakeGood to…

The Lac d’Aiguebelette in western Savoy is one of the largest natural lakes in France and known for its emerald-green water, pleasantly warm in summer. To protect nature, motorboats are banned. Two small islands and quiet bathing bays make it a tranquil destination away from the crowds.HighlightsEmerald-green, warm waterMotorboats banned to protect natureTwo…

Kranjska Gora in north-western Slovenia is the country’s best-known winter sports resort and host of Alpine Ski World Cup races at Vitranc. Nearby lie the Planica ski-flying hill and the idyllic mountain lake Jasna. In summer the resort is a starting point for the Vršič Pass and tours in the Triglav National Park.HighlightsSlovenia’s best-known ski resort (Vitranc World Cup)Near the Planica ski-flying hillJasna mountain lakeStarting point…

South of Munich, the Tegernsee is one of Bavaria’s most popular and fashionable pre-alpine lakes. Well-kept lakeside villages, the former monastery with the Ducal Bräustüberl and the local peak Wallberg shape the region. Swimming, sailing, boat trips and hiking all lie close together here.HighlightsFashionable pre-alpine lake near MunichDucal Bräustüberl in the monasteryWallberg peak with cable carSwimming, sailing and boat tripsGood…