Travelling from Vienna or Munich to Salzburg, look out for Mondsee, a magical spot in the south of the Salzkammergut, sometimes shrouded in mist, but more often glistening in the sun with a deep azure blue. Surrounded by cliffs, the lake is considered one of the warmest and cleanest bodies of water in Austria and is a popular family and children's holiday destination.
On one side of the lake is the mighty Drakensberg, and on the other side are picturesque, green mountains. The blue alpine wonder is also known as the Moon Lake because of its crescent shape, which can be clearly seen in photos of the Mondsee taken from above by drones.
On the lakeside, the spa towns of St. Lorenz and Mondsee welcome tourists.
St. Lorenz lies just below Drakensberg, famous for its trekking routes and viewing platforms that offer travellers panoramic views of breathtaking beauty.
In 1972 the remains of pile dwellings dating from 3600-3300 BC were discovered on the lake bed at a depth of only 2-4 metres, and can still be seen today.
In Mondsee is the medieval church of St Michael, built in the Gothic style with a Baroque façade. Many visitors come not only to admire the architecture and interiors, but also to see where the wedding scene from the legendary film 'The Sound of Music' was filmed.
The basilica is one of Upper Austria's most famous landmarks. Also worth a visit are the Salzkammergut Railway Museum, the Market Square, the National Museum and the Village Hall.
Recreation and entertainment at the lake
Both resorts offer a wealth of activities to suit all tastes. Mondsee's huge 20,000 km2 sandy beach complex, Alpenseebad Mondsee, attracts visitors stopping off on their way to other Austrian cities as well as those who come for a weekend, week or two.
There is plenty for children and teenagers to do here — trampolines, diving platforms, an outdoor swimming pool, 45 m and 108 m slides for children of all ages. You can even do an obstacle course on the water, guided by an instructor.
In the northern part of the lake there is a park with a beautiful promenade. It is a great place to relax on a hot day with the whole family, especially the children.
There's a playground, toilets and plenty of shade for the little ones.
There are snack bars in the park with an impressive list of dishes on the menu, and those who prefer a more refined and healthy cuisine can go to the restaurant for lunch.
In summer the lakes of St. Lorenz and Mondsee are a paradise — the breeze is refreshing, the water is warm from early morning (maximum temperature +26°C) and swimming is pleasant and easy, no more difficult than in the sea.
Adults can try their hand at a variety of water sports (sailing, windsurfing, diving, water skiing) or take their children on a group trip in a small boat.
The lake also offers a variety of fishing opportunities, with a number of spots for the more adventurous.
For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, there's also plenty of entertainment - bowling, archery, trekking, horse riding and mountain biking. Outdoor activities include golf, crazy golf, tennis and squash.
Cultural events such as concerts, music evenings and theatre productions are often held in the areas around the lake and in the resorts on its shores.
The annual Seefest, a lake festival with a big concert and fireworks, is a particularly popular attraction. It attracts up to 20,000 visitors each year and is the highlight of the tourist season.
Tourist Information
The many positive reviews of Mondsee point to the high quality of service, cleanliness and well-thought-out infrastructure of the resort. What characteristics and advantages do those who have already visited the lake mention?
- It is better to come in the warmer months as it is not a ski resort and there is little to do in the winter.
- There are 56 hotels around the lake and it's also possible to rent a small cottage.
- There is free Wi-Fi throughout the park.
- Parking is free.
- There's also a Ski Nautique and Super Air Nautique boat hire, which are modern, fast and comfortable pleasure boats.
- There is a charge to use the beach, but it is very clean and spacious, with plenty of room for everyone, even in high season.
- There are showers and changing facilities on site.
- The lake is only a short walk from the centre of each resort.
Having a coffee or dinner on the shores of Mondsee in Austria, admiring the rocks and the setting sun, experiencing the romantic atmosphere of St Michael's Basilica, dipping into the refreshing waters at dawn — all this is a beautiful and immediate reality available to any tourist planning a trip to this picturesque spot.
