Schwarzsee

The Schwarzsee, situated between Kitzbühel and Reith, is renowned as one of the most captivating bathing lakes in the Alps. Due to its high moisture content, the moor may experience rapid warming in the spring, which can contribute to the development of its health-promoting properties. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful Schwarzsee, followed by a refreshing dip in the invigorating moor water. Finally, relax and soak up the sun’s warm rays while taking in the breathtaking mountain scenery. The Schwarzsee offers additional amenities such as electric boats, allowing visitors to leisurely cruise around the lake or enjoy snacks and coffee on the sun terraces of the lakeside bistros.

What is Schwarzsee?

Schwarzsee, which means “black lake” in German, is a moor lake in Tyrol, Austria. It is located about 2 kilometers west of Kitzbühel, on the Brixental road, and is easily accessible by car, bike, or train. The lake covers an area of about 8 hectares, and has a maximum depth of 7 meters.

Schwarzsee is one of the warmest and most beautiful bathing lakes in the Alps, with temperatures reaching up to 27°C in summer. The lake owes its dark color and its name to the peat deposits at the bottom, which are rich in minerals and organic substances. These peat deposits are also said to have healing properties, especially for skin and joint problems.

The lake is surrounded by meadows and forests, and offers a stunning view of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. Parts of the shore area are designated as nature reserves, and are home to various plants and animals, such as water lilies, frogs, ducks, and herons.

What can you do at Schwarzsee?

Schwarzsee is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who enjoy its natural beauty and its leisure opportunities. Here are some of the things you can do at Schwarzsee:

Swimming: Schwarzsee is a great place to swim and cool off in the summer. The water is clean and clear, and the peat deposits make it soft and smooth. There are several bathing areas around the lake, with well-kept lawns, changing rooms, showers, and toilets. You can also rent sunbeds and parasols for a small fee.
Boating: If you want to explore the lake from a different perspective, you can rent a pedal boat or a rowboat and glide on the water. You can also bring your own inflatable boat or kayak, as long as it is not motorized. Boating is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and the wildlife around the lake.
Fishing: Schwarzsee is also a good spot for fishing enthusiasts, who can catch various types of fish, such as carp, pike, perch, and trout. You need a fishing license and a permit to fish at Schwarzsee, which you can buy at the nearby Bruggerhof hotel. You can also rent fishing equipment and boats there. Fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset, from May to October.
Walking: Schwarzsee is also a nice place to walk and hike, as there are several trails around the lake and in the surrounding area. You can walk around the lake on a 4-kilometer-long trail, which is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The trail is flat and paved, and has benches and information boards along the way. You can also extend your walk to the nearby villages of Reith and Aurach, or to the Kitzbüheler Horn mountain.
Relaxing: Schwarzsee is also a perfect place to relax and unwind, as it offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. You can sit on the shore and enjoy the view, read a book, have a picnic, or meditate. You can also visit the nearby cafés and restaurants, where you can have a snack or a meal, and try some local specialties, such as Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy pancake) or Tiroler Gröstl (a potato and meat dish).

Kitzbühel, Austria