Tourist Attractions in Hallstatt

 

The Hallstatter See, a spectacular mountain lake in Austria's Salzkammergut region, lies at the northern foot of the mighty Dachstein mountain range. Some eight-and-a-half kilometers long and between one to two kilometers wide, the lake is up to 125 meters deep and is surrounded by steep wooded slopes that give it a fjord-like character. Of the lovely villages that dot its shoreline, the most popular are Obertraun, Steeg, and Hallstatt with its old church and market square. The Hallstätter See is the most significant lake in the Alps in terms of history, and thanks to its many easily accessible beaches and stunning mountain scenery it has long been a draw for artists and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as those simply wanting some peace and quiet. Popular activities include fishing, diving, and boating on traditional flat-bottomed boats. Or you can rent an electric or pedal boat to explore the lake-no motor boats are allowed. The lake is also ringed by many excellent biking and hiking trails, some of which head up into the surrounding mountains. The region is habitat to a variety of diverse flora and fauna, including many rare species such as native orchids, in the wetlands and moors in the south and north.