Top 20 Lakes around Lessach

Visitors frequently enjoy the Styrian Bodensee, known for its comfortable, flat hiking trail and stunning mountain panoramas. Other highly regarded lakes include Riesachsee, celebrated for its natural beauty and impressive surroundings, and Duisitzkar Lake, often cited as one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Schladminger Tauern.

The lakes around Lessach are set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve "Salzburg Lungau Region," offering crystal-clear waters, lush alpine scenery, and towering peaks. You'll find diverse landscapes, from the dark, moorland waters of Prebersee to the dramatic waterfalls near Riesachsee, and the reflective surfaces of Duisitzkarsee nestled in larch forests. The Giglach Lakes, for instance, are situated in a barren high mountain valley with stunning alpine panoramas.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Styrian Bodensee features a flat, easy trail suitable for baby carriages and offers a pleasant experience for all ages. Riesachsee also offers family-friendly options, including a forest road for easier access. Many areas provide opportunities for picnics and gentle walks.

The region is excellent for hiking and mountain biking. You can find a variety of routes, from easy walks like the 'Witches' Loop' to more challenging trails such as the 'Bacher-Alm – Lower Lanschitz Lake' route. For detailed hiking options, explore the hiking guide for Lessach. There are also specific guides for easy hikes and running trails.

The warmer months, typically late spring to early autumn, are ideal for visiting the lakes, especially for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Autumn is particularly picturesque, with golden-yellow larches reflecting in the water, as seen at Duisitzkarsee. While some trails might be accessible in winter, many alpine huts close, and conditions can be challenging.

Yes, several alpine huts and restaurants are located near the lakes. For example, the Ignaz Mattis Hut is situated directly below the Giglach Lakes, offering overnight stays and serving as a base for summit tours. Near Duisitzkarsee, you'll find the Fahrlechhütte and Duisitzkarseehütte. The Forellenhof at the Styrian Bodensee is a popular restaurant known for its regional specialties and fish.

While many mountain lakes are refreshing for a dip, designated access areas for swimming are available. For instance, you can jump into the water at Riesachsee to cool off. Prebersee, a moorland lake, also has designated access points for swimming, though it's not primarily a bathing lake. Note that swimming is generally not possible at the Styrian Bodensee.

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your pet. However, it's crucial to be aware of specific restrictions. For example, dogs are banned from the alps in the upper Obertal valley, which leads to Duisitzkarsee. Always check local signage and regulations before bringing your dog.

Lessach itself serves as a starting point, and many mountain lakes are accessible after a scenic trek. While some lakes like the Styrian Bodensee are easily reached, others, such as the Giglach Lakes, require more extensive hiking. Parking is often available at trailheads leading to the lakes, but public transport options directly to all remote mountain lakes might be limited, making a car often more convenient for reaching starting points.

Prebersee, a moorland lake near Tamsweg, is unique due to its dark water, which results from dissolved suspended matter from the bog. It is also famous for the traditional "Preber shooting" event held annually in late August, where marksmen aim at the reflection of targets in the water, a tradition dating back to 1834.

The 'Wilde Wasser' theme trail is a spectacular route that leads to Riesachsee. This trail features the impressive Riesach Falls, among the highest waterfalls in Styria, and includes an adventurous gorge walk with ladders and a metal rope bridge, offering breathtaking natural spectacles on the way to the lake.