Looking for a trip idea to a lesser-known lake in Upper Austria? Then take note and plan a trip to Gleinkersee. This year we visited the lake in autumn, and it definitely wasn’t a bad idea. However, save this trip tip for your summer excursions too. You’ll find particularly pleasant refreshment at Gleinkersee during hot days.
Since it’s a mountain lake, the water temperature usually ranges between 18 and 22°C even in summer months. Gleinkersee lies at an altitude of approximately 806 meters, covers an area of nearly 14 hectares, and reaches a maximum depth of about 23 meters, which is ideal for swimming.
The lake is fed by natural springs, so the water tends to be cooler than in lower-lying lakes. However, temperatures can fluctuate depending on weather and the length of sunny days. During hot weeks, the water can reach higher temperatures. In any case, even those less cold-resistant can enjoy renting a boat, walking around the lake, and relaxing on the shore.
On the contrary, if you’re into cold water swimming, you’ll enjoy it here even now, outside the summer season. Gleinkersee is popular among cold water swimmers who come here for pleasant autumn-winter swimming from the pier.
GLEINKERSEE
Today we’ll leave swimming to others and set out for a pleasant family walk around the lake. Gleinkersee is a picturesque spot lying in the heart of Upper Austria, near the town of Spital am Pyhrn. It’s surrounded by mountains, forests, and impressive natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for those who love peace and beautiful nature.
We stayed nearby in Hinterstoder, from where it’s just a few minutes by car. In the vicinity, you’ll find many popular places for trips, both in winter and summer seasons. Nearby are also other popular mountain resorts and lakes, which you shouldn’t forget to read about before your trip:
Accommodation at Gleinkersee
Regarding accommodation at Gleinkersee, there’s a guesthouse with a nice restaurant, but it’s safer to look for hotels around Hinterstoder and Spital am Pyhrn, where there are many more options. Here are some of our verified tips:
- Simple holiday accommodation run by a very nice young family
- Breakfast option available and rooms designed primarily for families with children
- Great location – less than 2 kilometers from Gleinkersee
For more information and to book accommodation click HERE
- Pleasant rural accommodation near the lake
For more information and to book accommodation click HERE
HOTEL EXPLORER HINTERSTODER 3*
- The hotel is our annual certainty in winter and summer
- Offers great services at a good price – suitable for couples
- Modern equipped rooms and breakfast option
- Proven hotel chain
For more information and hotel booking click HERE
None of the above accommodations appeal to you? No problem, find a hotel or guesthouse exactly according to your requirements under this link:
AVAILABLE ACCOMMODATION IN HINTERSTODER AND SURROUNDINGS
GLEINKERSEE parking and restaurant
Around Lake Gleinkersee, there’s a parking lot and a small restaurant that offers both local specialties and light refreshments – during our last trip it was closed, so we can’t personally evaluate the current menu. Try it and let us know.
Access to the lake is easy, you can reach it from the parking lot even with a stroller or wheelchair – consider outdoor wheels. In summer months, there’s also a refreshment stand offering cooling drinks and simple meals. Boat rental is also available.
When visiting Gleinkersee, you should keep in mind that the lake and its surroundings are nature reserves, so it’s important to respect local nature and follow environmental protection rules.
Trail around Gleinkersee
The circular trail around Gleinkersee is approximately 1.6 kilometers long, making it an ideal tip for a short and easy walk. The route is well-marked, slightly undulating, and runs around the lake itself, allowing constant views of beautiful scenery. The surface is uneven in places.
You can usually complete this route in 30 to 40 minutes of leisurely walking, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the surroundings or take photos. The trail is accessible for most visitors, including families with children.
What to do at Gleinkersee?
Lake Gleinkersee and its surroundings offer many activities that both families with children and couples, individuals, or seniors will appreciate. Here are the most popular ones:
- Swimming: In summer months, the lake is ideal for swimming. The water is clean and pleasantly cool, which you’ll appreciate especially on hot days. There are grassy beaches around the lake where you can rest and sunbathe.
- Hiking: For hiking enthusiasts, the lake’s surroundings offer several trails of varying difficulty. There’s a family circular route around the lake that’s easy and suitable for families with children. For more experienced hikers, there are trails leading to nearby peaks that offer unique views of the lake and the entire valley. Consider your fitness level and physical strength carefully.
- Boat Rental: You can rent a boat on the lake and go for a short trip on the water. This is a popular activity not only among families but also couples who want to enjoy a romantic ride amid breathtaking nature.
- Fishing: Gleinkersee is a popular spot for anglers, though a local fishing permit is required – we haven’t yet verified if fishing is possible for foreign tourists. If you manage to find out, we’d appreciate if you let us know.
- Photography: The beauty of the lake and its surroundings is an inspiring place for photographers. Gleinkersee offers numerous spots to capture unique shots, whether it’s mountain panoramas, sunsets, or crystal-clear water. Nature particularly paints here in autumn.
