Nestled in Austria's Salzkammergut region, this alpine village is known for its emerald Lake Gosau, reflecting the Dachstein mountains. Hiking trails and a cable car offer scenic mountain views.
Gosau, a village in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region, sits amidst alpine scenery. The area's centerpiece, Lake Gosau, reflects the Dachstein mountains in its green waters. You can walk the lakeside trail, ride the Gosaukammbahn cable car for mountain views, or swim in the clear alpine lake. Gosau's proximity to Hallstatt and other Salzkammergut locations makes it a practical starting point for exploring this part of Austria.
Location and Natural Setting
Gosau is situated in the district of Gmunden, Upper Austria, at an elevation of 767 meters (2,516 ft) above sea level. The village lies along the Gosaubach stream, surrounded by the Alps. Nearly 59% of the municipality is covered in forests, creating a green landscape. The southern end of Gosau leads to Vorderer Gosausee, the first of three mountain lakes in the area.
Lake Gosau and Hiking Trails
Lake Gosau (Vorderer Gosausee) is a focal point of the area. A trail circles the lake, providing views of the water and surrounding mountains. This 3.5 km (2.2 mile) loop takes about 1.5 hours to complete and is suitable for all skill levels. For more challenging walks, a trail continues past Gosaulacke (the middle lake) to Hinterer Gosausee (the upper lake). This extended hike is about 7 km (4.3 miles) round trip and takes approximately 3 hours.
Gosaukammbahn Cable Car
The Gosaukammbahn cable car, located near Lake Gosau, takes you up to the alpine meadows of Zwieselalm. From the top station, you can see the Dachstein mountains and access additional hiking trails. The Gablonzer Hütte, near the cable car's upper station, serves local cuisine and drinks. In winter, this area transforms into a ski resort.
Accommodations and Dining
If you want to stay near the lake, Gasthof Gosausee has rooms with lake views and a restaurant serving local dishes. In the village center, you'll find more hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Many places to stay in Gosau have traditional Austrian architecture, adding to the area's character.
Nearby Places of Interest
Gosau is a 30-minute drive from Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its salt mines and lakeside setting. The Dachstein Krippenstein area, about 40 minutes away, has ice caves, viewing platforms, and more hiking trails. These nearby sites make Gosau a good base for exploring the Salzkammergut region.
Getting There and Best Times to Visit
The nearest major airport is in Salzburg, about an hour's drive from Gosau. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the village and explore the surrounding area. Public buses also connect Gosau to nearby towns. Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter (December to March) attracts skiers. To avoid crowds at Lake Gosau, try visiting early in the morning or on weekdays.
