Lunzer See

The Lunzer See lies at the foot of the Dürrenstein in Lower Austria, fed by the Seebach which travels from the Obersee through the Mittersee before reaching the Ybbs. It is the only natural lake in the region and also the coldest, with depths reaching thirty-four metres. The Seebach refreshes the lake’s water three times each year as it flows through. Researchers from the University of Vienna, the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, and the Danube University Krems work at the Biological Station on the eastern shore. The lake supports populations of brown trout, Arctic char, pike, bullheads, gudgeon and perch, while invasive ruffe have reduced the native minnows since the 1980s. Along the western edge, visitors can rent boats or dine at a lakeside restaurant. A floating stage built by artist Hans Kupelwieser hosts summer theatre and music, including the Wellenklänge contemporary arts festival in July and the More Ohr Less festival each year. In winter the stage is flooded and lowered to avoid damage from ice, rising again when the weather warms. The surrounding forests and clear waters offer quiet walks and views across the lake’s one-kilometre length.