My introduction to Austria happened by chance — and turned into a true love. The Alpine landscapes, silence, and powerful energy of nature completely changed my plans. For more than ten years, I have explored Austria dozens of times: on foot, by bicycle, and even from the air — discovering routes for travelers of all ages and travel styles. Today I help people experience the real Austria and create personalized itineraries that make each journey deeper, more comfortable, and more inspiring. Let Austria become your next unforgettable destination!
Gosau Lakes
The Gosau Lakes sit in a quiet alpine valley where nature feels close, vivid, and surprisingly accessible. Three mountain lakes, glacial-clear water in turquoise and emerald tones, dense forest, and the steep walls of the Dachstein massif create scenery that captures attention in every direction. This is a destination that suits families looking for striking landscapes, fresh air, easy walking routes, and space for children to explore without complicated logistics.
The atmosphere is calm and well organised. Trails are clearly marked, distances are manageable, and the infrastructure blends naturally into the landscape. Rather than rushing between stops, the day tends to move at a relaxed pace shaped by water, forest, and changing mountain light.
Where Are Gosau Lakes Located and How Do You Get There?
Gosau Lakes are in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, a short drive from Hallstatt. The access road leads directly to the front lake, so there is no long approach walk-an important advantage when travelling with children or carrying gear.
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Do you need a rental car?
Yes-having a car is significantly easier than travelling without one. The parking area is next to the lake, moving between nearby places is straightforward, and families can manage the day according to their own timing. Public transport is possible, but it typically involves transfers and requires careful planning for return connections.
Public transport connections include train travel to nearby stations and a local bus to the lake. The overall journey usually takes longer and offers less flexibility for families.
Parking prices near the lake:
- €4 for 2 hours
- €7 for 4 hours
- €10 for a full day
The lakes are open year-round. The Gosaukammbahn cable car operates seasonally depending on weather conditions. Entrance to the lakes is free; payment applies only for parking and cable car tickets.
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Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Arrive before 08:30. The lake is quieter, parking is more available, and reflections are often at their best.
Main spots at Gosau Lakes
These are the key places most travelers combine in one visit, from the easy front-lake walk to the quieter inner valley and panoramic cable car views.
Vorderer Gosausee
Front Lake
Vorderer Gosausee is the natural starting point for a visit. The water is crystal clear, the path around the lake is well maintained, and benches and picnic areas appear regularly along the shore. On calm days, the Dachstein glacier and surrounding peaks reflect across the surface like a mirror.
The walking loop is about 4 km, flat, and suitable for strollers. A relaxed circuit takes 60-90 minutes, depending on photo stops and short breaks.
At the lakeshore you will find a restaurant and café, a small shop and ice cream counter, public toilets, and seating areas facing the water. In summer, paddle boats and SUP boards are available. Shallow access points allow children to play near the water under supervision. The lake is cold, but on warm days it can feel refreshing.
Opening Hours: Open year-round
Entrance free; parking fees apply
Distance/Time: Loop: ~4 km; 60–90 minutes
Gosaulacke
Seasonal Lake along the trail
On the route toward the inner valley lies Gosaulacke, a small seasonal lake fed by snowmelt and underground springs. Water levels change throughout the year, but when the lake is full, its soft green surface creates a peaceful and photogenic pause in the landscape.
Gosaulacke is not a separate destination but a natural mid-route stopping point. It works well for a short rest, a snack break, and a moment to enjoy the quieter side of the valley before deciding whether to continue deeper into the mountains.
Opening Hours: Accessible year-round (conditions vary by season)
Free
Distance/Time: Used as a mid-route stopping point on the inner-valley trail
Hinterer Gosausee
Upper Lake
For families comfortable with moderate hiking, the walk to Hinterer Gosausee is one of the most memorable experiences in the area. The trail passes through forest, alongside small streams, across alpine meadows, and near grazing cows with bells. Step by step, the surroundings become quieter and feel increasingly remote.
The full round-trip distance is about 13 km, with steady but gentle elevation gain and no technical difficulty. Walking time is roughly two hours each way at a relaxed family pace, allowing for short stops along the trail.
At the end of the route, the upper lake appears in deep turquoise tones, enclosed by steep mountain walls and untouched alpine scenery. The atmosphere is peaceful and feels far removed from busy tourist areas.
Opening Hours: Accessible seasonally (trail conditions depend on weather)
Free
Distance/Time: Round-trip: ~13 km; ~2 hours each way at relaxed family pace
Gosaukammbahn (Cable Car)
The Gosaukammbahn cable car rises to around 1,500 metres above the valley. In just a few minutes, the scenery changes from lakeside forest to open alpine meadows with short walking paths, panoramic terraces, and mountain dining options.
This is an excellent choice for families who want wide mountain views without undertaking long or demanding hikes. From the top station, views open over the Gosau valley, the Dachstein massif, and the lakes below.
The cable car operates seasonally and depends on weather conditions, so checking availability in advance is important when planning the day.
Opening Hours: Seasonal; depends on weather conditions
Ticketed (prices vary by season and conditions)
Distance/Time: Short ascent; views from ~1,500 m above the valley
Who Gosau Lakes is best for
Families benefit from safe paths, flexible walking options, and natural play space. Photography enthusiasts enjoy strong reflections and shifting mountain light. Travelers seeking calm appreciate quieter inner-valley trails. Nature-focused visitors experience a rare combination of forest, water, and high alpine scenery in a compact and accessible area.
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Suitable For
- ✓ Families
- ✗ Seniors
- ✗ Limited Mobility
Amenities
- ✓ Toilets
- ✓ Cafe
- ✗ Elevator
- ✗ Kids Zone
- ✗ Stroller Friendly
- ✗ Wheelchair Accessible
Activities for children and practical advice
Gosau Lakes offer family-friendly nature experiences without artificial entertainment. Children can move freely, explore safely, and stay engaged without feeling confined to structured attractions.
Available activities include flat lakeside walking paths suitable for strollers, paddle boats and SUP boards in summer, shallow water access for supervised play, watching cows in alpine meadows, picnic areas by the shore, cable car rides to open mountain pastures, and Via Ferrata routes for experienced teenagers with proper equipment.
What should you know before visiting
Fresh spring water is available along trails. Closed walking shoes are recommended, even for the easy lakeside loop. Cows graze freely in the valley, so a safe distance should always be kept. Toilets are available only near the front lake and the cable car station. Mountain weather changes quickly, and temperatures can drop even in summer.
A scenic cliffside path above Lake Gosau, perfect for slow walks and unforgettable views.
What are the main limitations?
The front lake becomes busy on weekends and summer afternoons. The water remains very cold, limiting long swimming sessions. Some trail sections are not fenced, so children require supervision near the shore. In winter, parts of the trails are snow-covered and require suitable footwear.
Family Itinerary - Gosau Lakes
Trip Duration: 3 days
Day 1 - Gentle Introduction to Vorderer Gosausee
10:00 – Arrival at Vorderer Gosausee (Front Lake)
Drive directly to the official parking area located beside the lake. Parking costs €7 for four hours or €10 for a full day. No approach walk is required, which is especially convenient when travelling with children or strollers.
10:15-12:00 – Walk around the lake
A flat 4 km loop circles the entire lake. The trail is well maintained, stroller-friendly, and suitable for all ages. Plan 60-90 minutes at a relaxed pace, including photo stops and short breaks along the shore.
12:15 – Lunch at the lakeside restaurant
Stop for lunch at the restaurant overlooking the lake and surrounding peaks. The menu includes classic Austrian dishes and lighter options.
Average lunch cost: €12-€25 per person.
13:30-15:30 – Free time by the lake
During summer months, paddle boats and SUP boards are available for rent. Children can play near shallow water access points under supervision, while adults enjoy photography or quiet seating areas facing the lake.
16:00 – Drive back to Gosau village
Short return drive of approximately 10-15 minutes.
18:00 – Dinner in Gosau
Dinner at a traditional local restaurant serving regional Austrian cuisine.
Average dinner cost: €20-€40 per person.
A peaceful lakeside bench inviting travelers to pause and admire the mountain scenery.
Overnight Location: Gosau
Day 2 - Hike to Gosaulacke and Hinterer Gosausee
10:00 – Start hiking from Vorderer Gosausee
Begin the hike directly from the front lake, following the clearly marked trail into the inner valley. The path gradually leaves the busier lakeside area and enters a quieter alpine landscape.
Total round-trip distance to Hinterer Gosausee (Upper Lake): approximately 13 km.
12:30 – Stop at Gosaulacke (Seasonal Lake)
Reach the small green-hued lake and take a short break for snacks, water, and photos. This is a natural decision point for families to assess energy levels before continuing.
14:00 – Arrival at Hinterer Gosausee (Upper Lake)
The trail opens onto a quiet alpine lake surrounded by steep mountain walls and untouched scenery. Fewer visitors reach this point, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Plan 30-40 minutes to rest, explore the shoreline, and take photos.
16:30 – Return hike to Vorderer Gosausee
Follow the same trail back at a relaxed pace, enjoying changing light and familiar scenery from a new perspective.
18:00 – End of hiking day
Hidden mountain lake wrapped in morning mist and untouched wilderness.
Day 3 - Gosaukammbahn Cable Car and Alpine Meadows
10:00 – Ride the Gosaukammbahn (Cable Car)
Board the cable car for a short scenic ascent. Within minutes, you move from the valley to open alpine meadows, fresh mountain air, and wide panoramic views.
11:00-13:00 – Mountain walks and viewpoints
From the upper station, follow easy, well-marked trails designed for relaxed exploration. These short walks suit families and casual hikers and lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Gosau Valley and surrounding peaks.
13:30 – Lunch at a mountain hut
Enjoy lunch at a traditional mountain hut near the upper station, with alpine dishes and scenic terrace seating.
15:00 – Return by cable car
Descend comfortably back to the valley.
18:00 – End of itinerary
Turquoise alpine waters surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forest silence.
Traveler reviews
Daniel Parker
July 2024
I visited Vorderer Gosausee with my two kids (6 and 10). The lakeside loop was perfect with our stroller and provided easy, safe walking. The water color was unbelievably vibrant in the morning light, and the paddle boats kept the children engaged. Only downside: parking fills up quickly after 11:00, so we arrived early.
Sophie Laurent
September 2023
We hiked to Hinterer Gosausee as a family, and the trail was longer than expected but well marked. After about an hour, the crowds faded and we heard only forest sounds. I packed plenty of sandwiches and water, which was essential since there’s nothing to buy on the way. A quiet and memorable day.
Michael Turner
June 2019
Visiting after a light rain brought mist drifting over the lake, changing the view every few minutes. The loop around the front lake was easy and clearly signed, but I stayed very close to my children near the water – some sections have no fences. Still one of our favorite nature walks.
Emma Rodriguez
August 2022
Our family spent a relaxed afternoon at Vorderer Gosausee. Lunch at the lakeside restaurant was simple but pleasant, and the view was the main attraction. The kids later played at the shallow water edges while we took photos. Swimming felt refreshing but quite cold.
Oliver Bennett
October 2021
Autumn here was surprising – golden foliage, fewer people, and gentle reflections everywhere. We walked slowly with warm drinks in hand. The peaceful atmosphere made the route feel almost private. The only challenge came when the wind picked up in the late afternoon.
Isabella Rossi
May 2018
Taking the Gosaukammbahn cable car with my children was a highlight. The ride was short but dramatic, and up top we found easy grassy trails. The kids loved running around while we enjoyed hearty soup at the mountain hut. Always check if the cable car is running before you plan your day.
Lucas Meyer
September 2025
We stayed overnight in Gosau, and waking up early to watch the sunrise at the lake was unforgettable. The Dachstein reflections were perfect before any boats came out. Getting there at first light made all the difference in avoiding crowds and catching perfect photos.
Chloe Wilson
July 2022
We walked only as far as Gosaulacke with our younger child. It was a perfect compromise – a real hike that wasn’t exhausting. The small green lake was a lovely picnic stop. My advice: bring snacks and a light blanket. Once you head into the trail, there are no shops.
Tips from the Itinerary Expert
- I always arrive at Vorderer Gosausee before 08:30. Parking is still available, the lake is calm, and reflections of the Dachstein peaks are at their sharpest. Later in the day, both the path and parking area become noticeably busier.
- I begin the lakeside walk clockwise. The second half of the loop has more shade and benches, which makes the return walk easier once children start to slow down.
- I use Gosaulacke as a natural turning point. If the family still has energy, we continue toward Hinterer Gosausee. If not, we return here and still complete a satisfying nature walk.
- I always pack water and snacks before hiking to the upper lake. There are no cafés or shops along the trail, and having food ready prevents unnecessary stress mid-hike.
- I bring a light picnic blanket. Sitting by the shore of Vorderer Gosausee while children play nearby creates one of the most relaxing moments of the day.
- I check in advance whether Gosaukammbahn is operating. The cable car is seasonal, and planning a day around it without checking can lead to disappointment.
- I carry a warm layer even in summer. Weather in the valley changes quickly, and temperatures drop fast when clouds arrive.
- I stay close to children near the shoreline. Some parts of the lakeside paths have no fencing, and supervision keeps the walk calm and safe.
- I plan at least one overnight stay in Gosau village. Reaching the lake early in the morning completely changes the experience and avoids peak crowds.
- I give children a simple “nature mission” – spotting cows, streams, or unusual stones. It turns walking into an engaging game rather than “just another trail”.
Insights from the Itinerary Expert
I visited Gosau Lakes (Gosau Lakes) in September 2023, and from the first moments at Vorderer Gosausee I understood why this valley feels so special. The water was perfectly still, reflecting the Dachstein peaks like glass. Children walked freely along the flat lakeside path, stopping naturally to explore stones, trees, and the shoreline. It is rare to find a place that feels this wild yet remains so comfortable for families.
The hike toward Hinterer Gosausee impressed me most. Step by step, the surroundings became quieter, and after halfway the landscape felt almost private. Forest, streams, and open alpine meadows created a true nature immersion. At the same time, I learned an important practical lesson – there are no cafés along the trail, so water and snacks must be packed in advance. Weather also changes quickly, even on warm days.
Adding the Gosaukammbahn cable car completed the experience, giving panoramic views without physical strain – a perfect balance for mixed-age families.
Gosau Lakes is a remarkable alpine destination where scenery, comfort, and family-friendly nature come together naturally. I invite you to create a personalized route here – and across Austria – shaped to your family’s pace, interests, and travel style.
Price Table - Gosau Lakes
| Name | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget hotels (double room) | 90–150 EUR | per night; Basic hotels and guesthouses in Gosau |
| Mid-range hotels (double room) | 150–300 EUR | per night; 3-4 star hotels in Gosau and nearby villages |
| Luxury hotels (double room) | 300+ EUR | per night; Scenic hotels with high service level |
| Family apartment (5 people) | 90–145 EUR | per night; Holiday apartments and family-friendly rural stays |
| Rental car | 40–100+ EUR | per day; Average cost for a rental car in the region |
| Public transport | 10–25 EUR | per trip; Train + bus connection to Gosau |
| Restaurant (lunch) | 12–25 EUR | Average lunch prices in restaurants in Gosau and near the lake |
| Restaurant (dinner) | 20–40 EUR | Average dinner prices in restaurants in Gosau and near the lake |
| Parking near the lake | 7 EUR | for 4 hours; Official parking at Vorderer Gosausee |
| Basic supermarket shopping (for 2 people) | 30–45 EUR | per day; Groceries for light meals and snacks |
Common Questions About Gosau Lakes
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