Top 19 Lakes around Zell am Ziller

The Zillertal region, accessible from Zell am Ziller, features several impressive reservoirs. Among the most popular are Reservoir Pond at Penkenjoch, known for its heart shape and stunning views of the Zillertal Alps, and Penkenjoch Reservoir and Granat Chapel, which offers crystal clear water and a unique chapel. Other significant reservoirs include Durlaßboden Stausee, Schlegeis Stausee, Speicher Zillergründl, and Speicher Stillup, all offering distinct experiences.

Zell am Ziller itself does not have large natural lakes directly within the town. However, the surrounding Zillertal region is home to several impressive reservoirs and smaller alpine ponds that are easily accessible and offer a variety of outdoor activities and scenic beauty.

Several locations are excellent for families. Ahorn Lake is perfect for cooling off feet after a hike and has a great playground. The Durlaßboden Stausee is a summer highlight with a designated sunbathing area, a large playground, and barbecue facilities. The Reservoir Pond at Penkenjoch also features a great playground for all ages.

Durlaßboden Stausee is particularly well-suited for water sports. Its fresh mountain water warms up to a pleasant 21°C in summer, making it ideal for swimming, surfing, stand-up paddling, kayaking, and pedal boating. Fishing is also popular, with permits available locally.

The region offers numerous hiking trails. A 10-kilometer trail circles the Durlaßboden Stausee, providing beautiful panoramic views. Schlegeis Stausee is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging alpine tours, including routes to the Olperer and Pfitscher-Joch. Speicher Zillergründl is a great starting point for hikes to the Plauener Mountain Hut. For more options, you can explore easy hikes or mountain hikes in the area.

Yes, Durlaßboden Stausee is known for its pleasant water temperatures in summer, reaching up to 21°C, making it ideal for swimming. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip.

Near the Penkenjoch Reservoir, you'll find the Granat Chapel, known for its interesting construction and interior. At Durlaßboden Stausee, you can try a golf driving range where special golf balls that dissolve in water are used, becoming fish food. Schlegeis Stausee offers guided tours inside its massive dam wall, providing unique insights into its engineering.

The summer months are generally the best time to visit. During this period, the mountain water at Durlaßboden Stausee warms up for swimming, and the high-alpine reservoirs like Schlegeis and Stillup become popular destinations for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the stunning mountain scenery.

Many reservoirs are accessible via scenic roads. The Schlegeis Alpine Road leads to Schlegeis Stausee, though it may have height restrictions for vehicles. Speicher Zillergründl is reached via an 18 km toll road from Mayrhofen, with public transport ending at Bärenbad, from where you can walk, bike, or take a shuttle. Speicher Stillup is also accessed via an 8 km toll road from Mayrhofen. Parking is generally available at these locations, often associated with the toll roads or designated areas.

Yes, the Stillup Valley, where Speicher Stillup is located, is a popular destination for cyclists in the summer. While specific lake-side cycling routes vary, the scenic roads leading to these reservoirs offer challenging and rewarding rides. You can find various road cycling routes in the broader Zell am Ziller area that incorporate views of the region's water bodies.

The lakes are set amidst breathtaking high-alpine landscapes. You'll encounter impressive dam walls, lush flower meadows, and dense forests. Many areas, like the Stillup Valley, are within the Zillertal Alps Nature Park, offering rich biodiversity, including chamois, marmots, and numerous butterfly species. Waterfalls are also a common sight, especially around Speicher Stillup.

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent panoramic views of the Zillertal Alps, the crystal clear water of the reservoirs, and the peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the variety of activities available, from relaxing by the water to challenging hikes, and the family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and barbecue areas. The unique engineering of the dams and the natural beauty of the surrounding valleys are also highly valued.