Attractions and Places To See around Erlaufstausee - Top 7

The Erlaufstausee region is rich in natural beauty. The central feature is the Erlaufstausee itself, an artificial lake known for its clear, green waters and surrounding dense coniferous forests. It serves as a key entrance to the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, which offers spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking gorges. The mighty Ötscher mountain provides a magnificent backdrop to the reservoir.

Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The Water Trail at Erlaufklause Reservoir is a pleasant path featuring explanations about native fish species, with great views and resting places. Many hiking paths around the lake are suitable for families, and the area is popular for pedal boating and fishing. There's also a small educational trail for young fishermen.

The Erlaufstausee tavern with a view of the Ötscher, also known as the Staplerhaus, is located at the entrance to the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park. It offers snacks and refreshments with a beautiful terrace providing magnificent views of the Erlauf Reservoir, the Ötscher Mountains, and the Gemeindealpe. It's a recommended stop for its views and local delicacies.

The Spätmann rock and legend near Mitterbach is a striking rock formation associated with a local legend about three boys turned into jagged rocks. Additionally, the Erlaufklause Dam, which created the Erlaufstausee, is historically significant as one of Austria's first large modern dams, built to supply electricity to the Mariazellerbahn.

Numerous beautiful hiking and walking paths surround the Erlaufstausee, catering to various fitness levels. Popular routes include the 'Erlaufstauseerunde klein' (3 km) and 'Erlaufstauseerunde groß' (5.5 km). Longer tours connect to Erlaufklause, Ötschergräben, and Wienerbruck. You can find more detailed hiking routes on the Running Trails around Erlaufstausee guide.

Yes, the Mariazellerbahn, a narrow-gauge railway, runs along parts of the reservoir and offers a scenic way to access different hiking starting points, such as Erlaufklause. This makes it convenient to reach various attractions and trailheads without a car.

Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty, the clear waters of the reservoir, and the magnificent views of the Ötscher Mountains. The well-maintained trails, the opportunity for peaceful walks, and the welcoming atmosphere of places like the Erlaufstausee tavern are frequently highlighted. The region's blend of natural landscapes and accessible outdoor activities is a major draw.

Yes, the area around Erlaufstausee offers various cycling routes. You can find options for road cycling and gravel biking. For instance, there are routes like 'Erlaufsee – Zellerrain loop' for road cycling or 'Hubertussee – Erlaufsee loop' for gravel biking. Explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Erlaufstausee guide and the Gravel biking around Erlaufstausee guide.

Yes, Erlaufstausee is a popular fishing lake, known for its stock of fish. Information on fishing and permits can be obtained from the Mitterbach tourist office. There is also a small educational trail for young fishermen with information boards about fish species.

The Old Bridge at Erlaufstausee is a visible landmark that crosses the lake. While it offers a notable photo opportunity, it is currently dilapidated and closed to visitors for safety reasons. It's best admired from a distance.

The region is beautiful year-round, but late spring through early autumn (May to October) is ideal for hiking, cycling, and water activities like pedal boating. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and facilities like the Erlaufstausee tavern are typically open. Winter offers opportunities for snow-related activities, though some paths might be less accessible.