Discovering the 6 Lakes Hike: A Day of Adventure in Tauplitz
If you're looking for a stunning outdoor adventure in Austria, the 6 Lakes Hike near Tauplitz should be at the top of your list.
🕜Early one morning, we set off (from Zagreb) at the crack of dawn, around 5 AM, eager to make the most of the day. Our goal was to reach the trailhead by 10 or 11 AM, ready for a beautiful hike that promised breathtaking scenery and a tranquil escape into nature.
🗻Setting Off to Tauplitz
Our journey began in the charming village of Tauplitz, well-known for its ski slopes in winter and lush hiking trails in summer. The 6 Lakes Hike is particularly appealing because it’s not only scenic but also relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. With the trail starting at an elevation of 1,600 meters, we were excited to explore the alpine beauty that awaited us.
Getting to the Trailhead
Due to the gondola being out of service, we took the scenic route by car to the Tauplitzalm Hollhaus parking area.
💲While reviews indicated that parking was free, we quickly discovered there’s a €14 toll for car access to the road leading to the trail. Worth it? Absolutely! The picturesque drive set the stage for the adventure ahead.
The Route: 6 Stunning Lakes
The trail, beautifully marked and easy to follow, takes you through a series of enchanting lakes:
1. Krallersee:
The hike begins at this dark, shimmering moorland lake, where dragonflies dance around and the sounds of frogs serenade your journey. It’s a perfect spot to pause and soak in the atmosphere.
2. Großsee:
A short stroll brings you to Großsee, a lively lake where visitors often feed the ducks. It’s an idyllic place to relax and take a few photos.
3. Märchensee:
As you continue, you’ll arrive at Märchensee, an emerald-green jewel in nature.
4. Tauplitzsee:
Next, you’ll reach Tauplitzsee, another beautiful moorland lake. The calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect backdrop for a picnic.
Before reaching the fifth lake, there’s a charming little restaurant where you can take a break and recharge. Up to this point, the trail felt easy, more like a leisurely walk. However, after the restaurant, the difficulty increased to moderate. While experienced hikers might breeze through this section, occasional hikers like us found it challenging—but the stunning views made it all worthwhile!
5. Steirersee:
A highlight of the hike is Steirersee, where the Steirersee-Bankerl lookout offers panoramic views of the legendary Sturzhahn mountain. It’s a popular rest stop, and you’ll find delicious snacks at nearby huts. The trail here is also friendly for prams and wheelchairs, making it accessible for all.
6. Schwarzensee:
The last stop is Schwarzensee, known for its crystal-clear waters. This tranquil lake invites you to pause, refresh, and reflect.
This is our route, I suggest to download the app Mapy.cz, it is free and very easy to use and also you can download FREE offline maps:
This is their official site:
Other useful links that I found about route options:
Extending the Adventure
If you're up for a little extra hiking, you can extend your journey by making a detour to Leistalm, adding about an hour to your trek. The views are worth the effort, and the experience of being surrounded by nature is simply unbeatable.
Conclusion: A Day to Remember
After a full day of hiking, we made our way back to the mountain station, filled with memories of stunning landscapes and the joy of being in nature. The 6 Lakes Hike is not just a hike; it’s an adventure that offers tranquility and breathtaking views in one of Austria’s most beautiful regions. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual explorer, this trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Austrian Alps.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and set off on your own journey through the 6 Lakes of Tauplitz—an experience you won’t soon forget!
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