Nature protection area

Water experience ...

This mountain lake which is a nature reserve is characterised by very cold, clear water which is of drinking water quality. This provides optimum living conditions for numerous fish species.

At the base of the highest mountain of the Austrian region of Salzkammergut, there is one of the most picturesque photo-taking opportunities. This is not surprising, as even the globetrotter and natural scientist Alexander Freiherr von Humboldt described lake Gosau as "God's eye", for he was deeply impressed and overwhelmed by this lake, which is the crowning part of the valley just in front of the mighty walls and impressive heights of mount Dachstein.

Hike to lake Hinterer Gosausee

This hike, which takes half a day, leads though the nature reserve areas of lake Vorderer Gosausee, lake Gosauseelacke and lake Hinterer Gosausee. You are in the World Heritage landscape of "Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut" and experience water in many ways.

• The walk to lake Hinterer Gosausee takes about 1.5 - 2 hours
• 230 metres difference in altitude,
• in parts uneven and stony forestry track;it is recommended to wear hiking or trekking shoes

Theme trail lake Gosau

The walk around lake Gosau is among the very special theme trails. Eleven stations give you a feeling for the unique landscapes of the Austrian region of Inner Salzkammergut.
You can experience the many forces and effects of the water firsthand at the natural well (drinking water), the Pythagoras Cup, the Water Xylophone and the Sound Funnel.

Furthermore, the theme trail is focused on:

• geology
• karst
• fossils
• lake chasm

At elaborate adventure stations, you can experience the energy and properties of water in simple ways.
The walk around the lake is also possible with pushchairs and for wheelchair users and comprises four kilometres.
The walk takes a good hour.