Austrian Lakes Walk

On arrival in Bad Ischl, make your way to your hotel. This charming town rose to fame in the mid-19th century when Emperor Franz Joseph chose it as his summer retreat, turning it into one of Europe’s most fashionable holiday destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Salzkammergut region, Bad Ischl has been known as a health resort since 1906 and serves as the perfect starting point. You may like to unwind at the town’s spacious thermal baths, or enjoy a sweet treat at the historic Café Zauner, a local institution known for its traditional Austrian pastries.

Today’s walk begins in Bad Ischl, following a scenic route to Kalvarienberg Church and continuing along the Elisabeth Forest Trail – named after Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi), who once rode these woodland paths. The trail leads through the hamlet of Pfandl, known for its early salt production dating back to the 12th century, then continues via Russbach to the tranquil shores of Schwarzensee. From here, you’ll follow gentle meadow paths to Burgau on Lake Attersee, before walking the lakeside trail to your accommodation in either Weissenbach or Steinbach. Note: At times 3km of the morning's trail must be by bus as the trail can be affected if there is heavy rain or storms. In this instance a bus ticket is included. Walking: 24km/14.9mi, ascent/descent 584m/1916ft The walk can be shortened by taking a bus from Bad Ischl to Russbach or Pfandl to Russbach (walk 12km/7.45mi less)

This morning begins with a short bus transfer (included) to the entrance of Burggraben Gorge, where your walk starts. The trail leads you over the Eisenau alpine pasture, the highest point of today’s walk, offering panoramic views. Along the way, you’ll pass a series of wayside crosses, inviting moments to take in the landscape above Lake Mondsee. From Scharfling, the path descends past Krottensee and continues to the lakeside village of St Gilgen, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Wolfgang. You’ll stay overnight here, or continue a little further along the lake to the small town of Abersee – either on foot via the scenic lakeside promenade or by local bus from St Gilgen. Walking: 23km/14.5mi or 16.6km/10.3mi, ascent 700m/2296ft, descent 650m/2132ft

A change of pace this morning, starting with a relaxing boat ride across Lake Wolfgangsee, the most iconic lake in the Salzkammergut region. Disembark in the charming village of St Wolfgang, where you may like to explore the historic church or take the cogwheel, operating since 1893 using historic steam locomotives, some of which are among the oldest still operating in the world to the summit of Schafberg (1782m) for sweeping panoramic views over the lakes and surrounding peaks*. Walking: 7.5km/4.6mi, ascent 164m/538ft, descent 141m/463ft *Option to hike to the summit of the Schafberg from St Wolfgang, return by cogwheel train. Walk or bus/ferry to Strobl.

Today’s walk from Weissenbach to Bad Goisern follows the scenic Bear Trail – a route that winds through a wild, almost primeval landscape shaped by flowing water. Expect a mix of gorges, forested paths, deep pools and bubbling streams, creating a peaceful and atmospheric walk. Passing the rustic Kammersbach Hut, the trail climbs steadily to the Bärenpfadsattel, the high point of the day. On the descent, you’ll have the chance to visit the Chorinsky Klause, a remarkable 19th-century industrial lock once used to float timber downstream – a unique historical feature tucked into the forest. Continue along the trail to Bad Goisern, where you’ll stay overnight. Walking: 21km/13.4mi, ascent 895m/2936ft, descent 977m/3205ft Note: if you would like to avoid today's steep descent, you can take a bus to Bad Ischl and walk an alternate route to Bad Goisern (10km/6mi)

As you make your way towards Lake Hallstatt, today’s walk takes you across the Traun River several times – a vital waterway that flows through the heart of the Salzkammergut, originating in the Totes Gebirge mountains of Styria. The next section follows the eastern shore of Lake Hallstatt, offering uninterrupted views of the dramatic Dachstein mountain range. This stretch is a true highlight, with hanging bridges that create the sensation of walking above the water, and panoramic vistas around every bend. Continue through Obertraun, then arrive in Hallstatt, where you’ll spend the night. With its maze of narrow laneways, traditional alpine houses, serene lakeside setting, and deep cultural roots dating back to the Hallstatt era, it’s no wonder this town is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking: 19km/12mi, ascent 127m/416ft, descent 102m/334ft You can shorten today's walk by approx. 8km/5mi by taking the ferry from Hallstatt train station to Hallstatt town (payable locally).

From Hallstatt, return to Obertraun, where the Koppentraun River flows into Lake Hallstatt, before entering the scenic and secluded Koppen Valley. Along this peaceful trail, you’ll encounter several interpretive adventure stations, bringing the landscape to life. Highlights include the Koppenbrüller Cave, a dramatic stalactite-filled cavern with active water flow, an old railway tunnel, and the striking avalanche gullies tumbling down from Hoher Sarstein (1975m). You’ll also cross a suspension bridge that spans the wild Koppentraun – a memorable feature of the day’s walk. As you reach Sarstein, the gorge opens into a wider valley, revealing your destination: Bad Aussee. Surrounded by lakes, forest and alpine peaks, this historic market town is often called the "green heart" of the Salzkammergut, known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic setting. Walking: 17km/12.4mi, ascent 414m/1358ft, descent 277m/909ft You can shorten the route by taking a ferry to the other side of the lake (Hallstatt stop) (10mins, approx EUR4), then walk to Bad Aussee, or shorten the walk further by taking the train between Hallstatt Stop and Bad Aussee (25mins, approx. EUR10).