The Attersee is the biggest lake in the Salzkammergut resort region with an area of 45.9 km2. It is the largest lake exclusively on the territory of Austria. It is 171 m deep at the deepest point. Its source is the Seeache, which flows out of the Mondsee, a nearby lake. To the southeast of Lake Atter is the Hllengebirge, a 1800-m high mountain range. Another mountain bordering with the lake is the Schafberg, of approximately the same height. There is a tiny island chateau at Litzlberg, which Austrian artist Gustav Klimt often visited in the summer.

History.
Remains of stilt houses were found in Attersee in 1870, dating back to the Neolithic age. Also known as pile dwellings, these structures are raised on stilts over soil or water surfaces. Paddle steamers were introduced here in the mid-1800s, which were used to ferry goods and mail between the towns near the lake. Today the Attersee is a popular destination for sports and recreation. It attracts many people from the urban areas of Linz and Vienna. Atter Lake is also important for Austrian sailors, because it offers the best wind conditions out of all Austrian lakes. Many major sailing races take place at this lake during the year.

Hiking.
There are many hiking opportunities in the area of Attersee. Moderate hiking routes and pleasant paths for leisurely walks can be found throughout the area, and pass through all the towns around Atter Lake. Enthusiastic hikers can tackle the Hllengebirge and its impressive peaks. The name of this mountain translates as Hell Mountain. There is a trail dedicated to Gustav Klimt, the Klimt on Attersee route, where you can literally walk in his footsteps. Various signposts along the path chronicle his artistic creativity in the region.

Water sports.
Austrias biggest inland lake guarantees optimal conditions for water sports. The stable winds ensure great sailing and windsurfing. You can try your hand at tubing, water skiing, parasailing and more. The waters are crystal clear and people love coming here to swim. All Attersee lakeside resorts offer great fun and quality R&R. In the summer the temperature can reach 25C. Heated swimming pools ensure a great time on colder days. There are many indoor and outdoor pools in the area, such as Agerbad Bath in Agerbad, Lederergasse, Attersee Landscaped Pool, Freizeitgelnde Unterach and more. The wind can reach a speed of 4 BFT. This is due to the vast size of the lake. Locals call this characteristic wind the Rosenwind. This name has an interesting origin. In the past the Kammer Palace was surrounded by rose gardens, and their fragrance drifted across the lake. Attersee is the hub of the Austrian regatta scene from May until September. If you dont consider yourself sufficiently trained to participate in a regatta, you can take sailing courses at one of the many professional sailing schools in the region.

Biking.
This is your chance to spend an active holiday. Cycling is a difficult, strenuous sport, but it is equally rewarding. There is a 48-km biking path around Attersee, which is very popular, not the least for its scenic character. It winds along the shores and through the mesmerizing countryside, offering various panoramic views. As you ride through the secluded villages, youll be filled with a sense of peace and comfort. The little Radlerrast bike stop is a must, offering excellent traditional restaurants. If you find the 48-km circuit too tiring, you can take a boat from a certain point on the lake. The lakeside region hosts the annual Attersee Mountain Bike Trophy competition in the summer. This is a very challenging race with elevation gain of 1470 meters. The top three competitors receive trophies, and all racers get a T-shirt with a logo. A lottery is also organized.

Paragliding.
Paragliding and hand gliding are popular pastimes here with the mountain ranges of Salzkammergut offering an ideal base. An experienced glider can take off in less than 5 minutes. It is possible to enjoy long flights the record is 426 km. Courses for gliders of all ability levels are also available. You will be granted a flight diploma if you complete a theory and practice course.

Cruises.
A wide variety of cruises are available on Lake Atter cruises around the lake, disco cruises, childrens cruises, evening cruises, rail and cruise adventures and more. Cruises are a great way to experience the wonderful scenery. The lively shores, the mountains, the summer residences and the charming hamlets create a unique atmosphere. The cruise liners offer panoramic windows for excellent views of the lake. You can sunbathe at the top deck if you wish. The liners are equipped with heated saloons, so cold weather and rain do not present a problem. You will enjoy delectable dishes onboard our ships.

Culture.
Many great artists have lived and worked in Attersee region - Gustav Mahler, Gustav Klimt and Christian Ludwig Attersee to name a few. This is perfectly understandable - who wouldnt find inspiration in an area as beautiful as this? Actually, these artists put Attersee on the map long before it became a tourist destination. Many galleries, exhibits, concerts and other events keep their cultural heritage alive. There are folklore displays in Attersee Hall in the old mill of Steinbach and Nussdorf.

Fun for children.
Dont worry about your kids being bored here many family activities are available. A visit to the Museum for Children on the lake is highly recommended it has a lot of balloons and toys, and every child gets a present. This is a great place to have fun and meet new people. There are also some historical displays about the lives of children over the ages, which adults will find interesting.

Fishing.
The fishing season is from May 15th to November 20th. There are many fishing opportunities in Attersee, with a sheer diversity of fish living in the lake. These include rainbow trout, brown trout, red trout, esox, lake char, carp, whitefish, burbot, European eel and cichlid. You need a fishing license. If you forget your rod, do not despair there are many fishing stores around selling them. And if you dont catch anything, you should know that there are many fish restaurants around the lake serving delectable Attersee fish specialties.