Obertraun & the bathing area at Lake Hallstatt
Where tranquillity meets nature
Only a few minutes away from Hallstatt is Obertrauna quiet place on the eastern shore of Lake Hallstatt. Here, the Salzkammergut shows its most tranquil side – with mountains reflected in the clear water and a serenity that is often missed in lively Hallstatt.
While streams of visitors fill the opposite shore of the lake, Obertraun remains a place to take a deep breath. Between meadows, lake and mountain views, you will find space for real relaxation – whether swimming, walking or simply sitting on the shore.
Especially in summer, the well-kept Obertraun bathing area attracts families, locals and those seeking peace and quiet in equal measure.
Crystal-clear water, open sunbathing areas and the view across the lake to Hallstatt make it one of the most beautiful places to experience Lake Hallstatt in all its tranquillity.
The Obertraun lido
Nature, comfort & views of the Dachstein
Directly on the south-eastern shore of Lake Hallstattonly a few minutes away from the center of Obertraun, lies the Obertraun lido – one of the most beautiful and well-kept bathing spots in the entire Salzkammergut. Peace, nature and comfort come together here.
A spacious sunbathing lawn offers plenty of space even on warm days. Access to the water is shallow and safe – ideal for
The facilities include Changing rooms, showers, toilets and a small playground. If you want to enjoy something in between, the Café with terrace Drinks, ice cream and snacks – with a direct view over the lake. Admission is free, parking is available in the immediate vicinity – sometimes for a fee, depending on the season.
The lido is not just a place to swim, but also a place to relax. Paths lead along the shore, benches invite you to linger, and when the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, the light reflects like liquid gold on the surface of the water.
A place where time seems to stand still – quiet, friendly and genuinely Upper Austrian.
Winkl natural bathing area & Kessel bathing area
The quiet shores of Obertraun
Those who prefer the quiet side of Lake Hallstatt you will find around Obertraun two special places: the Winkl natural bathing area and the Kessel bathing area. Both are just a few minutes away from each other – and show how different the atmosphere can be on the same lake.
The Winkl natural bathing areasouth of the village center, is natural and freely accessible. There is no music or large facilities here – just lake, forest and silence. The shore is shallow, the water is clear and the surrounding trees provide pleasant shade.
The place is particularly magical in the early hours of the morning or in the evening: mist over the water, birdsong, the gentle lapping of the waves. A place where nature sets the pace.
A little further towards Hallstatt is the bathing place Kessel – Small, well-kept and easily accessible. Located directly on the road and close to the P4 parking lot, it offers a lawn for sunbathing, benches and a breathtaking view over the lake to Hallstatt.
When the sun disappears behind the mountains in the late afternoon, the light bathes the surface of the water in warm golden tones – a tranquil moment that is hard to forget.
Both places are quiet alternatives to the somewhat livelier Obertraun lido. Here you can swim in the middle of nature – with space, tranquillity and a view that surprises even in a region full of postcard motifs.
Tips for visitors & conclusion
A visit to Obertraun is not only worthwhile as a complement to Hallstatt, but as an experience in its own right. The town is easy to reach – by car, bus or train – and offers plenty of parking near the bathing areas.
If you are on foot, you can walk along the picturesque Ostuferwanderweg from Hallstatt to Obertraun (around 45 minutes) and step directly into the water at several small points along the way.
The best time for a day of swimming is from June to Septemberwhen Lake Hallstatt reaches pleasant temperatures and the weather remains stable. In the morning it is usually calm, while in the afternoon the sun glistens over the mountains – perfect for photos and relaxing hours on the shore.
Obertraun is a place where you can experience the Salzkammergut from its quiet side: clear, natural, decelerated. Between lake, mountain and sky, there is a peace here that you don’t have to look for – you can feel it immediately.
Anyone who has seen Hallstatt should not miss the view from the other side. Here, in Obertraun, Lake Hallstatt shows itself as it really is: timelessly beautiful.
Experience Hallstatt & Obertraun like a local!
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