Lake Wolfgangsee in Salzkammergut
Bathing and hiking, views from a boat and the Schafberg onto the lake

Lake Wolfgangsee is one of Austria's most famous lakes, located in the Salzkammergut region, spanning the borders of Salzburg and Upper Austria. The larger part lies in Salzburg, while the northern part belongs to Upper Austria. The municipalities of St. Gilgen, Strobl, and St. Wolfgang surround the lake.

Geographically, Lake Wolfgangsee is situated in an idyllic alpine landscape, nestled between the Schafberg to the west and the Zwölferhorn to the east – two prominent mountains popular with families for outings. The views of Lake Wolfgangsee and the surrounding region are stunning.

In summer, Wolfgangsee reaches water temperatures of up to 24°C. The main swimming season is usually between July and August, when the water is at its warmest.

Lake Wolfgangsee combines alpine scenery with a wide range of activities on and around the water. Highlights include rides on the Schafberg Railway, boat trips between the lakeside villages, and swimming areas along the shore.

Wolfgangsee can be reached by train via Salzburg or Attnang-Puchheim stations. From there, bus connections continue to St. Gilgen, Strobl and St. Wolfgang. Within the region, buses and boats connect the different lakeside villages.

Among the best-known attractions are the pilgrimage church in St. Wolfgang, the Schafberg Railway and the Wolfgangsee boat service.

Wolfgangsee, the largest and deepest lake in SalzburgerLand, is also a popular destination for sailing.

Walking trails lead through the surrounding mountains, cycling routes circle the lake, and lakeside beaches invite visitors into the water during summer.

The original name of Lake Wolfgangsee was "Abersee," first mentioned in records around 800 AD. Five hundred years later, it was renamed "Wolfgangsee" after Saint Wolfgang, who turned the area into a medieval pilgrimage site.

Lake Wolfgangsee is renowned for several reasons:

1. Natural Beauty: The lake is known for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by high mountains like the Schafberg and the Zwölferhorn, it offers picturesque views and rich natural surroundings.

2. Recreational Activities: There are many recreational opportunities at Lake Wolfgangsee, including swimming, boating, hiking, and climbing in the summer, and winter sports in the surrounding areas.

3. History and Culture: The region around Lake Wolfgangsee has a rich history and culture. The towns of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl have historic centres with traditional architecture and are known for their cultural events.

4. Musical Heritage: St. Gilgen is the birthplace of Mozart's mother and the home of his sister Nannerl. The idyllic landscape around Lake Wolfgangsee also inspired composer Franz Lehár, who lived and worked nearby.

5. Film and Television: Lake Wolfgangsee has been the location for numerous films and TV series. It is especially famous for the operetta "The White Horse Inn" ("Im Weißen Rössl"), composed by Ralph Benatzky in 1930. The operetta is set in the famous hotel of the same name on Lake Wolfgangsee and was later adapted into several films.