Ausseerland
Altaussee in the Salzkammergut
The Ausseerland region is one of the most impressive landscapes in Austria's Salzkammergut region. Surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, wooded mountains, and imposing peaks, the region attracts nature lovers, active vacationers, and foodies all year round. Here, traditional culture, alpine nature experiences, and sporting activities combine to create an unforgettable vacation experience.
At the heart of the region lies Altaussee, a picturesque village on the lake of the same name, which delights visitors with its charming village center, breathtaking panoramas, and proximity to the Loser mountain. And right in the middle of it all, the AlpenParks Hagan Lodge Altaussee offers the perfect base camp for your Salzkammergut vacation – whether in summer or winter.
The Salzkammergut region
The Salzkammergut is one of Austria's best-known and most beautiful holiday regions. Characterized by over 70 lakes, rugged mountain ranges, and traditional villages, parts of the landscape—such as Lake Hallstatt with Hallstatt—have even been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The region spans three federal states: Salzburg, Upper Austria, and Styria, with Altaussee considered the cultural and geographical center of the Ausseerland region.
Highlights at a glance:
- Lake Altaussee – crystal clear, ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or walking along the shore.
- Lake Grundlsee & Lake Toplitzsee – natural lakes with spectacular mountain backdrops.
- Lake Hallstatt & Hallstatt – historic panoramic backdrop and UNESCO treasure.
- Bad Aussee – cultural capital of the Salzkammergut with tradition and regional cuisine.
- Loser & Dachstein – alpine hiking and skiing area with panoramic views.
- Salzwelten Altaussee – Austria's largest active salt mine.
Summertime: Hiking, cycling, and adventure
In summer, the Ausseerland region attracts visitors with its numerous hiking trails – from leisurely lakeside circuits to challenging summit tours on the Loser or in the Tote Gebirge mountains. The panoramic views over the lake landscape and the surrounding Alps are among the most beautiful photo spots in Austria.
Cyclists and mountain bikers will find an excellently signposted network of trails for all levels of ability, including e-bike routes along the lakes and mountains. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, lakeside promenades and themed trails invite you to enjoy the scenery.
The lakes around Altaussee offer perfect conditions for:
- Swimming & stand-up paddling,
- Sailing & windsurfing (e.g., on Lake Mondsee and Lake Attersee),
- Fishing & boat tours.
The combination of mountain views and water sports makes the Salzkammergut unique.
AlpenParks Resorts in the Ausseerland region:
Winter magic
When winter arrives, the Ausseerland region is transformed into a fairytale winter paradise. Frozen lakes invite you to go ice skating and curling, while snow-covered forests are perfect for winter hikes and cross-country skiing tours.
The nearby Loser Bergbahnen Altaussee ski area offers:
More winter highlights
- Snowshoe and winter hikes
- Classic cross-country skiing through snow-covered valleys
- Advent and Christmas markets in the region
- Culinary winter events and traditional festivals
Culture & Events in Ausseerland
The region is rich in customs, festivals, and cultural events:
- Daffodil Festival – Austria's largest flower festival in spring.
- Ausseer Fasching – lively carnival by the lake.
- Mountain Bike Trophy – one of the toughest MTB races in Europe.
- Traditional Advent & Krampus events in winter.
The local cuisine also impresses with regional specialties: from fresh lake fish to Styrian and Salzkammergut delicacies to homemade breads and cheese dishes.
Lake landscape in the Salzkammergut
The Ausseerland region is famous for its extraordinary density of crystal-clear lakes, which are among Austria's most beautiful natural gems. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and alpine meadows, they invite you to swim, relax, hike, and enjoy yourself—often with drinking water quality and spectacular panoramic views.
- Lake Altaussee
- Lake Grundlsee
- Lake Hallstätter See
- Lake Wolfgangsee
- Lake Attersee
- Lake Mondsee
- Lake Wallersee, Lake Irrsee, Lake Mattsee, Lake Hintersee, Lake Königssee, and Lake Traunsee
Whether swimming, water sports, walking along the shore, cycling along the lakes or simply pausing to enjoy the view – the lakes around Altaussee make a vacation in the Ausseerland region particularly varied. Guests at AlpenParks Hagan Lodge Altaussee benefit from its central location in the middle of this unique lake landscape.
AlpenParks Hagan Lodge Altaussee – your home in the Ausseerland region
In the heart of Ausseerland, nestled between lakes, mountains, and nature, lies the AlpenParks Hagan Lodge Altaussee—a charming resort in traditional style that combines alpine comfort with nature experiences.
- Quiet location, ideal for families, couples, and active vacationers.
- Directly on hiking, biking, and ski trails—perfect for summer and winter vacations.
- Stylish chalets with cozy, high-quality furnishings.
- Restaurant right in the resort
From the Hagan Lodge, many excursion destinations are “right on your doorstep” – whether it's a leisurely hike around Lake Altaussee or a day of skiing on the Loser. The lodge combines alpine lifestyle with the freedom to plan your day according to your interests.
