Schattensee lake in the mountaineering village of Krakau | © STG | Günther Steininger Schattensee lake in the mountaineering village of Krakau | © STG | Günther Steininger
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Lakeside Holidays

Whether it’s a relaxing lakeside holiday, active days with the family, or a spontaneous getaway by the water – planning a lakeside stay in Steiermark often comes with a few questions, from dog-friendly beaches to the perfect packing list.

On the Swimming Lakes in Steiermark page, you’ll find an overview of the most beautiful lakes in Steiermark. To keep the anticipation pure, we’ve gathered the most important answers about planning, activities, and essentials for a lakeside holiday. This way, you can start your personal Sommerfrische perfectly prepared!

The most popular swimming lakes include Grundlsee, Altausseer See, Stubenbergsee, Putterersee, and Sulmsee. They offer excellent infrastructure, stunning natural scenery, and a wide range of leisure activities.

The water quality of the lakes is tested several times each summer by the health agency AGES, and year after year the results confirm their excellent quality.

Some lakes offer designated dog beaches or bathing areas for dogs – for example at the Soboth Reservoir, the Gleinstätten natural swimming lake, the Erlaufsee, or the Packer Reservoir. Please check the local regulations or lake rules in advance. You’ll find more information on the Holidays with Dogs page.

Many lakes in Steiermark are freely accessible, such as the Altausseer See. Others – like the Stubenbergsee – charge a moderate entry fee for their well-maintained lidos. Details vary depending on the location. The Swimming Lakes in Steiermark page offers a helpful overview.

Depending on the lake, a wide range of activities is available: SUP, kayaking, boating, diving, sailing, hiking, or cycling around the lake. Some locations also offer guided tours or boat rentals. Boat trips are available on lakes such as Altausseer See, Grundlsee, Toplitzsee, Kammersee, Erlaufsee, and Stubenbergsee.

From campsites to hotels with private lake access – Steiermark offers a wide variety of accommodations right on the water. On the Holidays by the Lake page, you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for stays with lake views and direct access to the water.

In addition to swimwear, sunscreen, and towels, we recommend packing:

  • Swimsuit, bikini, or swim trunks; water shoes/flip-flops
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
  • Bath towels, picnic blanket, and beach mat
  • Lounger or folding chair
  • Windbreak or beach tent
  • Sun umbrella with stand
  • Beach toys for kids (and adults!)
  • Boccia set, Frisbee, badminton, football, etc.
  • Beach bag/cooler with drinks and light snacks
  • Swimming gear like pool noodles, air mattresses, or snorkels
  • Inflatable mattress/boat and pump
  • UV-protection clothing (especially for children) and spare clothes
  • Books
  • Smartphone (plus charger and/or power bank)
  • Insect repellent
  • Small travel first aid kit (plasters, etc.)
  • Plastic bag for wet clothes
  • Hiking or cycling gear for excursions

Yes, many lake regions also feature outdoor pools or thermal spas – such as GrimmingTherme near the Grundlsee, Aqualux Therme in Fohnsdorf, Therme Nova in Köflach, or the six spas of the Thermen- & Vulkanland. They’re perfect for rainy days or offer plenty of space and amenities for extra relaxation.

Absolutely. Many lakes feature shallow shorelines, playgrounds, water slides, and family-friendly infrastructure. Stubenbergsee and Putterersee are particularly popular with families, offering a wide range of activities and amenities designed for all ages.

Depending on size, location, and sun exposure, water temperatures vary. The warmer lakes include Wildoner Badesee, Putterersee, Stubenbergsee, Hirzmann Reservoir, and Naturbadesee Gleinstätten. The cooler (refreshing) lakes include Leopoldsteiner See, Grundlsee, and Erlaufsee.

This depends on the lake. Some swimming lakes offer designated barbecue areas, while at others open fires are not permitted. Please check local regulations – and be mindful of nature and fellow visitors.

Yes – from summer concerts and local markets to culinary events with lake views, Steiermark offers plenty of experiences around its waters across the different regions. It’s worth checking the events calendar!

More tips for a lakeside holiday

Lake Grafenberg in the Dachstein Mountains
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