Discover the beautiful lake below the Drachenwand
Mondsee lies not far from Salzburg, a fine lake visible from the A1 motorway, and it would be a shame to drive straight past it.
Mondsee in winter: cross-country skiing, winter walks and Advent
Mondsee is not a ski resort. The only lift the regional tourist board names in the area is the Hochplettlifte Oberaschau – suitable for families and beginners.
The lake itself freezes only once every few years, and usually not all over, so skating on it is barely an option. From November to February people skate in the ice rink instead, whatever the weather.
Around Oberaschau run the Lichtenbuch (4 km), Union (5 km), Kapellen (5 km) and Moor (5 km) cross-country trails, all classic; there are more on the Mondseeberg and in Tiefgraben, Oberhofen and St. Lorenz. Marked winter walks run from 2.4 km to 8.5 km. The Advent market is held on the Advent weekends on the square in front of the basilica and in the cloister.
In summer the water temperature at Mondsee is the draw
Mondsee lies at almost 500 m above sea level and covers 16.4 km2. The first thing you notice is the Drachenwand, which rises right beside the lake and gives the landscape a magical air. You can admire the scene from one of the many beaches along the shore – the swimming really is worth it. Mondsee is among the warmest lakes in Austria. In season the water reaches an astonishing 27 °C, which families with small children appreciate most. Children also love the water slides and climbing frames built in the town of Mondsee. The town holds the 12th-century Basilica of St Michael, one of the largest Gothic churches in Austria. Adults have a wide choice of water sports. You can try sailing, kiting or water-skiing.
Cycling, hiking and golf too
Like other parts of the Salzkammergut, Mondsee offers ideal conditions for cycling and hiking. The routes and trails come in every level of difficulty, so every sportsperson finds something. Golf is a popular pastime at Mondsee. The eighteen-hole course lies right on the lake shore. Taken with the game? Then do not hesitate and go and play – Mondsee and the Alpine peaks around it make a backdrop you will remember.
Mondsee: accommodation cheap or luxurious
The area around the lake offers a range of places to stay, from luxury hotels and family Pensionen to private rooms. The widest choice is in the town of Mondsee itself. Campsites right on the shore are the cheaper option and provide all the facilities you need.
Typical dishes around Mondsee
At Mondsee, as at the other lakes of the Salzkammergut, one of the fresh freshwater fish is worth trying. Besides the typical char you can get trout, carp or pike-perch.
Where it is: