Hinterer Gosausee

Hinterer Gosausee, or Upper Lake Gosau, is a natural wonder that lies at the end of the Gosau valley, about 10 kilometers from the village of Gosau. The lake is part of the Dachstein Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the Dachstein massif and its glaciers, caves, and karst formations. The lake is only accessible by foot, as there is no road or motorized traffic in the area. The hike to the lake takes about 90 minutes from the parking lot near the Vorderer Gosausee, or Lower Lake Gosau, the first and largest of the Gosau lakes. The trail follows the shore of the Vorderer Gosausee, then crosses a forest and a meadow, before reaching the Hinterer Gosausee. The lake is about 800 meters long and 600 meters wide, and it has a depth of 36 meters. The lake is fed by the meltwater of the Dachstein glacier, which seeps underground and emerges at the lake. The water is crystal clear and has a turquoise color, contrasting with the dark green of the forest and the gray of the rocks. The lake is surrounded by the steep slopes of the Dachstein mountains, which rise up to 3,000 meters above sea level. The most prominent peak is the Hoher Dachstein, the highest mountain in the region, with its distinctive glacier and snow cap. The lake offers a stunning panorama of the Dachstein, especially on clear days, when the reflection of the glacier on the water creates a mesmerizing effect.

The Hinterer Gosausee has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Ice Age, when the lake was formed by the retreat of the glaciers. The lake was first mentioned in a document in 1563, as a fishing ground for the local farmers. The lake was also used as a source of ice, which was cut and transported to the nearby towns for cooling purposes. The lake was also a popular destination for hunters, who pursued the game animals that lived in the forest, such as deer, chamois, and marmots. The lake was also a place of legends and myths, as some people believed that the lake was haunted by spirits and fairies, who would lure the unwary travelers into the water. The lake was also said to be connected to the underworld, where a dragon lived and guarded a treasure. The lake was also a site of scientific interest, as it was studied by geologists, botanists, and zoologists, who explored its unique flora and fauna. The lake is home to several rare and endemic species, such as the Gosau salamander, a small amphibian that lives only in the Gosau lakes, and the Dachstein forget-me-not, a blue flower that grows only on the rocks around the lake.

The Hinterer Gosausee is a great place to visit for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, who can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the lake and its surroundings. The lake is open from June to September, depending on the weather conditions, and there is no entrance fee. The lake has a rustic alpine hut, the Holzmeister Alm, which offers food and drinks, as well as accommodation for overnight stays. The hut is run by Lisa, a friendly and welcoming hostess, who prepares local specialties, such as Kaiserschmarrn, Knödel, and Kaspressknödel, as well as soups, salads, and snacks. The hut has a cozy interior with wooden furniture and decorations, as well as a spacious terrace where visitors can sit and enjoy the sun and the fresh air. The hut is a good base for exploring the nearby attractions, such as the Adamek hut, a mountain refuge at 2,196 meters, or the Dachstein West ski resort, which offers slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Visitors can also take the Gosaukamm cable car, which takes them to the Zwieselalm, a panoramic plateau with hiking trails and viewpoints.

The Hinterer Gosausee is a hidden gem in the Salzkammergut region, a place where visitors can experience the authentic alpine lifestyle and culture. The lake is a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and good food, and who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you visit the Hinterer Gosausee, you will surely fall in love with its rustic charm and its breathtaking surroundings.