Waarom is de Achensee een must-visit?
The Achensee, also known as the “Sea of Tyrol,” is the largest and most iconic lake in Tyrol. With its turquoise waters, breathtaking mountain scenery, and countless activities, it’s one of Austria’s most beloved destinations. The lake is just a 15-minute drive from Haus Casimir, making it the perfect excursion during your holiday in this stunning region.
Whether you enjoy swimming, water sports, hiking, biking, or simply relaxing, Achensee has something for everyone. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the most beautiful spots, activities, hiking trails, and boat rentals around this gem of the Alps.
How do you get to Lake Achensee?
The Achensee is just a 15-minute drive from Haus Casimer.
By bike
- Bicycle route: From Reith im Alpbachtal, you can cycle to the lake via a bike-friendly route (approx. 30–45 minutes).
Watersports: surfing, sailing, kitesurfing & more
Lake Achensee is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts thanks to its steady winds and vast expanse of water. Here are the best options:
Water sports hire & lessons
- Achenkirch:
- Achensee Surf School: Surf lessons, SUP board rentals, and kitesurfing.
- Boat rentals: Kayaks, rowboats, and SUP boards.
- Maurach:
- Seenland Achensee: Sailboats, catamarans, and paddleboats.
- Pertisau:
- Boat Rentals in Pertisau: Kayaks, rowboats, and electric boats.
Popular watersports
| Sport | Description | Best location |
|---|---|---|
| Surfen | Lake Achensee is one of the best places in Austria for surfing. | Achenkirch, Maurach |
| Kitesurfing | Consistent winds make it perfect for kitesurfing. | Achenkirch |
| Sailing | The lake is large enough for sailing trips and regattas. | Maurach, Pertisau |
| Wakeboarden | You can go wakeboarding at the Achensee Wakeboard Park in Maurach. | Maurach |
| Diving | Lake Achensee has a rich underwater world and is popular with divers. | Everywhere |
**Tip:** Book in advance if you want watersports lessons or hire, especially during the peak season (July–August).
Walking and cycling: Around the lake and the surrounding area
Lake Achensee is surrounded by extensive hiking and biking trails. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a multi-day hike, you’ll find inspiration here:
Walking trails around Lake Achensee
- Around the lake (22 km):
- Length: 22 km (can be shortened to 8–15 km).
- Duration: 5–7 hours (leisurely pace).
- Elevation gain: Minimal (ideal for beginners).
- Highlights:
- Dalfazer Waterfall (the lake’s highest waterfall, 60 meters).
- Bärenkopf (1,991 meters, beautiful views).
- Gaisalm (mountain pasture serving traditional Tyrolean dishes).
- Route: Start in Pertisau or Achenkirch, walk via Scholastika and Seespitz.
- Tip: Take the boat back if you don’t want to walk the entire route (e.g., from Pertisau to Scholastika, 8.8 km).
- Short hikes:
- Pertisau – Scholastika (3.5 km): Easy, child-friendly.
- Maurach – Buchau (5 km): Peaceful, along the water.
- Achenkirch – Dalfazalm (2 hours): Slightly uphill, with views of the lake.
Cycle routes
- Around the lake (approx. 40 km):
- A flat route along the water, suitable for all cyclists.
- Bike rentals available in Jenbach, Achenkirch, and Maurach.
- Mountain routes:
- Alpbachtal – Achensee (approx. 30 km): Via Brandenberg and Kramsach, with stunning views.
Tip: Use the Alpbachtal Card (included with many accommodations) for free entry to local attractions, including bike hire and cable cars.
Boat hire & guided tours: Discover the lake up close
One of the best ways to experience Lake Achensee is by boat. Whether you’d like to take a cruise or hire a boat yourself:
Boat tours & ferries
- Achensee Ferry Service:
- Route: Achenkirch – Pertisau – Maurach – Seespitz.
- Duration: 1–2 hours each way.
- Tip: A boat tour is a relaxing way to see the lake, especially if you don’t want to row yourself.
- Achenseebahn (steam train):
- Route: Jenbach – Achenkirch – Pertisau.
- Duration: 45 minutes.
Wellness and relaxation
- Atoll Achensee (Maurach): A large swimming complex with saunas, water slides, and an outdoor pool overlooking the lake.
Practical tips for your visit
The best time to visit Lake Achensee
- May–June: Less crowded, beautiful spring flowers.
- July–August: Warmest temperatures, but also busier.
- September: Quieter, beautiful fall colors.
- October: Ideal for hikers and photography enthusiasts.
Safety & rules
- Swimming: Only on designated beaches.
- Trash disposal: Take your trash with you—the lake is a nature reserve.
- Boat rentals: Make sure you have a valid boating license if you rent a motorboat.
- Use the Alpbachtal Card to enjoy free activities.