Achensee FACTS

What YOU must know about Achensee:

Achensee, often referred to as the "Sea of the Tyroleans," is the largest lake in Tyrol and sits at an altitude of around 930 meters. With a length of approximately 9 kilometers and a depth of up to 133 meters, it is the deepest lake in Tyrol and one of the cleanest lakes in Austria. Surrounded by the impressive peaks of the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges, the region offers an appealing blend of crystal-clear water, alpine landscapes, and traditional Tyrolean culture. The towns of Maurach, Pertisau, and Achenkirch, which surround the lake, have a long history and offer a wide range of recreational opportunities.

10 Key Facts about Achensee

1. Largest Lake in Tyrol: Achensee is the largest lake in Tyrol with an area of around 6.8 square kilometers.

2. Crystal-Clear Water: With a visibility depth of up to 10 meters, Achensee is considered one of the cleanest lakes in Austria.

3. Depth and Volume: The lake reaches a depth of up to 133 meters and holds around 481 million cubic meters of water.

4. Natural Glacier Lake: Formed during the last Ice Age about 20,000 years ago through glacier movements.

5. Strong Winds: The lake is known for its strong thermal winds, making it a popular spot for sailors and surfers.

6. Maritime Flair: Due to its size and frequent intense winds, Achensee is also referred to as the "Tyrolean Sea."

7. Achensee Railway: The oldest cogwheel railway in Austria has connected Jenbach to Achensee since 1889.

8. Karwendel Nature Reserve: The Karwendel Nature Park, located to the west, is one of Europe's largest nature reserves.

9. Rich in Fish: Achensee is a popular spot for anglers, home to species like char, trout, and whitefish.

10. Year-Round Destination: The region is a popular destination for outdoor activities both in summer and winter.

Maurach – Gateway to the Rofan Mountains

Maurach lies on the southern shore of Achensee at an altitude of about 950 meters. The town is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts as it offers direct access to the Rofan mountain range. One of the most famous attractions is the Achensee Railway, the oldest cogwheel railway in Austria, which has been operating since 1889 from Jenbach to Maurach. The Rofan Cable Car connects the valley to the Gschöllkopf at 1,840 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. In winter, Maurach becomes a popular ski destination with about 14 kilometers of ski slopes and well-maintained winter hiking paths. At the same time, the town is an ideal starting point for hiking and mountain biking tours in the summer.

10 Key Facts

1. Altitude: Maurach lies at about 950 meters above sea level, higher than most places around Achensee.

2. Gateway to the Rofan Mountains: A perfect starting point for hiking and climbing tours in the Rofan Mountains.

3. Skyglider AirRofan: A spectacular flying experience, where you glide over the rocks at speeds of up to 80 km/h.

4. Gschöllkopf: Maurach's local mountain (1,840 m) offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Alps.

5. Water Experience Atoll Achensee: A modern recreational center with a sauna, infinity pool, and lake access.

6. History: A key location for timber transport and shipping in the 19th century.

7. Achensee Railway Start: The historic cogwheel railway begins here.

8. Tyrolean Stone Oil: Tyrol's famous stone oil has been extracted near Maurach for centuries.

9. Rofan Skyglider: An adventure for the brave – a mix of zipline and free flight.

10. Winter Paradise: Maurach offers cross-country skiing trails, winter hiking paths, and snowshoe routes.

Pertisau – Entrance to Karwendel

Pertisau is located on the western shore of Achensee and is one of the oldest settlements in the region. In the Middle Ages, the town was an important starting point for timber transport across Achensee. Today, Pertisau is especially known for its proximity to the Karwendel Nature Park, one of Europe's largest nature reserves. The park spans 727 square kilometers and is home to rare animal species such as golden eagles, chamois, and marmots. Visitors can not only relax by the lake but also explore the alpine flora and fauna on countless hiking trails. In winter, Pertisau attracts cross-country skiers with a vast network of over 200 kilometers of trails and winter hikers.

10 Key Facts

1. Achensee Golf Course: One of the oldest golf courses in Austria with views of the lake.

2. Home of Tyrolean Stone Oil: The history of stone oil extraction in Tyrol began here.

3. Access to Karwendel: A starting point for tours into one of Europe's largest nature reserves.

4. Cross-Country Skiing Paradise: Over 200 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing trails in winter.

5. Old Fishing Village: Pertisau was once a significant fishing village.

6. Karwendel Mountain Bike Trail: One of the steepest mountain bike trails in the region.

7. Toboggan Run: Winter fun on the natural toboggan run right at the town's edge.

8. Hiking Routes: Numerous trails start here, including the popular route to Gramaialm.

9. Adventure Hiking Trail: The Karwendel Nature Park offers interactive educational paths and guided tours.

10. Lake Promenade: One of the most beautiful lake-side walking paths around Achensee.

Achenkirch – Nature, Tradition, and History

Achenkirch, located on the northern shore of Achensee, is one of the oldest settlements in the region and offers an authentic Tyrolean atmosphere. The town’s history dates back to the Middle Ages when the area was an important trade route between Bavaria and Tyrol. A notable landmark is the baroque parish church of St. John the Baptist, one of the oldest churches in the region. Today, Achenkirch is a popular starting point for hiking tours in the surrounding mountains and for winter sports in the Christlum Ski Area, which is particularly appreciated by families. The ski area offers around 27 kilometers of slopes and modern infrastructure with snowmaking systems and a snowpark.

10 Key Facts

1. Altitude: Achenkirch is located at about 930 meters and stretches for several kilometers along the northern shore.

2. Christlum Ski Area: One of the largest ski areas in the region with modern lifts.

3. Old Parish Church: The parish church of St. John the Baptist dates back to the 15th century.

4. Sixenhof Heimatmuseum: An authentic Tyrolean farmhouse providing insights into alpine life from centuries ago.

5. Riding Opportunities: Achenkirch is known for its horse farms and riding trails.

6. Schwarzbach Waterfall: A hidden natural wonder on the outskirts of the village.

7. Hiking Paradise: A starting point for tours into Karwendel and the Brandenberger Alps.

8. Lake Cliff: Spectacular steep cliffs that drop directly into Achensee.

9. Northern Shore of Achensee: Ideal for peaceful boat trips and fishing tours.

10. Old Tyrolean Traditions: The town is known for its lively traditions, visible during alpine festivals, cattle drives, and local celebrations.