Vorderer Gosausee
A stunning alpine lake in Austria, famous for its crystal-clear waters reflecting the majestic Dachstein Glacier.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet atmosphere
Vorderer Gosausee
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in Austria, famous for its crystal-clear waters reflecting the majestic Dachstein Glacier.
"This is one of those places that even the photos can't do justice. Absolutely spectacular."
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Experience the magic without crowds. Perfect for photos and peaceful moments.
👟 Easy Lake Loop
The 4.5km trail is flat and scenic, suitable for all.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Dachstein View
Vorderer Gosausee shoreline
Crystal-clear lake waters perfectly mirroring the majestic Dachstein Glacier. A truly postcard-perfect scene.
The Serene Lake Loop
Around Vorderer Gosausee
An easy, flat 4.5km walk offering breathtaking views at every turn. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Hinterer Gosausee's Wild Beauty
Beyond Vorderer Gosausee
A quieter, more wild lake experience for those seeking a bit more adventure after the main loop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Trail Options & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Experience the magic without crowds. Perfect for photos and peaceful moments.
👟 Easy Lake Loop
The 4.5km trail is flat and scenic, suitable for all.
🚗 Parking Fees
Expect around €2 per hour, max €8 for 8 hours.
🏞️ Beyond the Main Lake
Hinterer Gosausee offers a wilder, quieter experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Experience the magic without crowds. Perfect for photos and peaceful moments.
👟 Easy Lake Loop
The 4.5km trail is flat and scenic, suitable for all.
🚗 Parking Fees
Expect around €2 per hour, max €8 for 8 hours.
🏞️ Beyond the Main Lake
Hinterer Gosausee offers a wilder, quieter experience.
📸 Capture the Reflection
Calm mornings offer the best mirror-like reflections of the mountains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Vorderer Gosausee as an absolutely spectacular and breathtakingly beautiful location, often described as one of the most beautiful places in the region. The easy walking trails and stunning reflections of the Dachstein Glacier are major highlights, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Some visitors note that the extended hike to Hinterer Gosausee is challenging, and while the lake can be icy, it's manageable for a dip in peak summer.
"Breath taking beautiful ❤️. Lovely cows with bells are walking around there. Time it's standing still there 🧘🏼♀️. Advice to be there around 08.00 or earlier then it's nice and quiet."
Gizem Luna
"I visited Gosausee in early May, and although the weather wasn’t great—it had been raining the whole week—the view was still absolutely stunning. The mist hanging over the mountains gave the whole place a magical, almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere. The water level in the lake was still quite low at that time, but it didn’t take away from the beauty of the surroundings.
There’s parking nearby for €2 per hour, up to a maximum of 8 hours. The hiking trail around the lake is relatively easy and takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace. During my visit, there were very few tourists, which made the experience even more peaceful and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic escape into nature, Gosausee is definitely worth a visit—even in rainy weather!"
Drayang Chua
"Perfect lake! An easy tour hike will definitely chill your summer!"
Zg Rao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take bus 150 from Salzburg Hbf to Bad Ischl, then a train to Hallstatt station, followed by a ferry. Alternatively, you can drive directly to Gosau.
It's ambitious but potentially feasible with careful planning. The routes involve multiple bus and train transfers.
Navigate towards Gosau in Upper Austria. There is parking available near the lake. +1
While the description mentions a cable car, the primary access to Vorderer Gosausee is via road or public transport to the lake itself. The cable car might refer to access to higher hiking areas in the Dachstein region.
From Vienna, you would typically take a train to Salzburg or Linz, then connect to buses and trains towards Gosau. It's a longer journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the lake itself. However, parking fees apply if you are driving.
Vorderer Gosausee is a natural attraction and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. Visitor facilities like cafes may have specific hours. +1
No advance booking is required for accessing the lake or the surrounding trails.
The hiking trails around Vorderer Gosausee are free to use.
Parking costs approximately €2 per hour, with a maximum charge of €8 for an 8-hour period.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visiting early in the morning, before 8 AM, is highly recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
The loop trail around Vorderer Gosausee is about 4.5 km and takes approximately 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace.
Yes, the trail is mostly flat and easy, making it suitable for families with children.
Swimming is permitted in Vorderer Gosausee, and there are many spots with easy entry into the water. The water temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius in summer.
You might see lovely cows with bells walking around the area, adding to the idyllic alpine atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are great food options available at the start and end of the lake loop.
Expect traditional Austrian cuisine and local specialties, perfect for refueling after a hike.
Yes, picnicking is a great option, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
While not explicitly stated, many Austrian restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. It's best to check with individual establishments.
Absolutely! Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea, especially for longer hikes or if you prefer to dine with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer the best light for capturing the reflections of the Dachstein mountains in the calm water. +1
The entire shoreline offers stunning views, but look for spots with clear reflections and the iconic Dachstein backdrop. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery, but a standard zoom lens will also work well.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or national parks. Always check local regulations before flying.
A camera with good low-light performance and a sturdy tripod for morning shots would be ideal. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are also good food options available near the lake, making it easy to refuel after a day of exploring. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
This path offers a more rugged, wilder experience for those seeking to escape the main tourist paths. Nature lovers will be captivated by the pristine alpine environment, the clear waters, and the dramatic mountain backdrop. Even in less-than-perfect weather, the scenery can be magical.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the mountains and lake. Don't overlook the opportunity to photograph the charming cows with bells that often roam the area, adding a touch of alpine life to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Vorderer Gosausee
The easy, 4.5km loop trail around the lake is a major draw, offering accessible natural beauty for all visitors. It's a gentle walk, perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed experience in nature. Along the path, you'll encounter lush forests and alpine meadows, with the constant, awe-inspiring presence of the Dachstein.
While Vorderer Gosausee is a hub of activity, arriving early is key to experiencing its true tranquility. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for more strenuous hikes, leading to other beautiful, less-visited spots like Hinterer Gosausee for those who wish to explore further.
Hiking Trails and Accessibility
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the hike to Hinterer Gosausee is a rewarding option. This trail involves a significant uphill climb and is considered more demanding. It leads to a wilder, more secluded lake, offering a different kind of natural beauty away from the main tourist crowds.
It's important to note that while the main loop is easy, the extended hike to Hinterer Gosausee requires good physical condition and appropriate footwear. Always check weather conditions before embarking on any hike, especially the more challenging routes.
Photography Tips for Vorderer Gosausee
Wide-angle lenses are excellent for encompassing the vastness of the landscape, from the lake's surface to the towering peaks. However, a standard zoom lens can also capture beautiful details. Consider bringing a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and water and reduce glare.
Don't forget to explore different vantage points along the lake's perimeter. Even on overcast days, the mist hanging over the mountains can create a magical, moody atmosphere, as noted by visitors in early May.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit