Woerthersee

Lake Worthersee, also known as Wörthersee or Lake Wörth, is a lake in the southern Austrian state of Carinthia. It is a popular tourist destination in summer, offering various activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, and cycling.

Lake Worthersee is the largest and most famous lake in Carinthia, a region in the south of Austria that borders Slovenia and Italy. The lake covers an area of about 20 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 85 meters. It is fed by several streams and drains into the Glanfurt river, which flows into the Drava and then the Danube.

The lake is known for its clear, turquoise water and its mild climate, which allows for a long bathing season from May to September. The water temperature can reach up to 25 degrees Celsius in summer, making it one of the warmest alpine lakes in Europe. The lake also has a rich biodiversity, with more than 40 species of fish, including pike, perch, carp, and whitefish.

The lake has a long history and cultural significance, dating back to the Celtic and Roman times. The name Wörthersee comes from the Old High German word werd, meaning island, referring to the several islands and peninsulas in the lake. The most famous one is Maria Wörth, which was once an island but is now connected to the mainland by a causeway. Maria Wörth is home to a Romanesque church and a Gothic chapel, both dating from the 12th century. The church is a popular wedding venue and hosts an annual classical music festival.

The lake is also a popular destination for sports and leisure activities, both on and off the water. The lake has several marinas, boat rentals, and ferry services, as well as a public beach and a lido. The lake is also ideal for sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, and diving. Around the lake, there are many hiking and biking trails, as well as golf courses, tennis courts, and horse riding facilities. The lake also hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Ironman Austria triathlon, the GTI car meeting, and the Fête Blanche, a white-themed party.

The lake is surrounded by several charming towns and villages, each with its own character and attractions. The main town is Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia and the sixth-largest city in Austria. Klagenfurt is located at the eastern end of the lake and has a beautiful old town with a Renaissance-style main square, a 16th-century cathedral, and a dragon fountain. Klagenfurt also has a modern side, with a lively nightlife, a shopping mall, and a museum of modern art.

Another popular town is Velden, located at the western end of the lake. Velden is known for its glamorous and elegant atmosphere, with a casino, a luxury hotel, and a promenade lined with cafes and boutiques. Velden is also the setting of a famous Austrian TV series, Ein Schloss am Wörthersee, which aired in the 1990s and featured the adventures of a hotel owner and his guests.

Other towns and villages around the lake include Pörtschach, a family-friendly resort with a flower park and a music pavilion; Krumpendorf, a quiet and relaxing place with a nature reserve and a nudist beach; and Maria Wörth, a picturesque and historic village with a stunning view of the lake and the mountains.

Lake Worthersee is a summer paradise in Austria, offering a variety of attractions and activities for all tastes and ages. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, culture, or entertainment, you will find it at Lake Worthersee.