What are the most beautiful lakes in Carinthia for swimming and relaxation?

Q: Which lake has the warmest water?

The Faaker See and Pressegger See are the warmest, reaching around 26 °C in summer.

Q: Are Carinthia’s lakes family-friendly?

Yes – especially the Ossiacher See and Millstätter See, with shallow shores, safe beaches and plenty of family activities.

Q: What’s the best way to travel to Carinthia, Austria?

Carinthia can be reached by car via the Tauern Motorway (A10), by train to Villach or Klagenfurt, or by plane to Salzburg, Graz or Ljubljana airports.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Carinthia for swimming and relaxation?

Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost region, is famous for its crystal-clear lakes and more than 200 days of sunshine every year. Warm waters, mountain backdrops and a touch of Mediterranean flair make it one of Europe’s most inviting summer destinations. In this article you’ll discover Carinthia’s finest lakes – from lively resorts to quiet natural havens – and learn which lake best fits your perfect holiday.

This blog post about Carinthia is written by René Schwarte, founder of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu.

Where the Alps Meet the Water

Tucked between the Alps and the Adriatic, Carinthia enjoys a mild climate that’s both alpine and Mediterranean.
The province boasts over 200 lakes, and about twenty of them are warm enough for swimming.

The five most popular – and arguably most beautiful – are:

Wörthersee
Millstätter See
Ossiacher See
Faaker See
Weissensee

Smaller, quieter gems such as the Pressegger See or Keutschacher See are perfect for travellers seeking peace and nature. Around most lakes you’ll find well-marked walking and cycling paths – perfect for exploring with family or friends. Discover more routes and outdoor ideas in Active Holidays in Carinthia.

Wörthersee – Chic, Lively & Sun-Kissed

Carinthia’s most famous lake, the Wörthersee, is often compared to the French Riviera – stylish, lively and always sunny.
Cafés, beach clubs and elegant promenades line the shore in Velden, Pörtschach and Klagenfurt. With its brilliant turquoise water reaching up to 26 °C, Wörthersee is perfect for swimming, SUP or a boat trip to the little island of Maria Wörth.

👉 Find beautiful holiday homes near Wörthersee, Lake Wörth
Best for: couples, friends, and anyone who loves atmosphere and sunshine.

2. Millstätter See – Nature, Culture & Calm

Right in the heart of Carinthia, the Millstätter See offers the perfect balance between activity and tranquillity.
The lake’s clear, warm water (up to 26 °C) invites you to swim, sail or paddle, while trails like the Millstätter See Höhensteig reward hikers with breathtaking panoramas.

Charming villages such as Seeboden and Millstatt offer lakeside cafés and boutique hotels. Summer brings concerts and cultural events that add a touch of elegance to the lakeside evenings.

3. Ossiacher See – Fun for Families & Active Travellers

Framed by rolling hills, the Ossiacher See is ideal for families and those who enjoy being outdoors.
Its shallow shores, cycle paths and excellent swimming areas make it perfect for a relaxed family holiday. Take the cable car up the Gerlitzen Alpe for views across southern Austria, or explore the Bleistätter Moor nature reserve.

Things to do:

Sailing, windsurfing and kayaking
Hiking & birdwatching
Evening markets in Ossiach

Browse holiday homes in Carinthia

4. Faaker See – Small, Peaceful & Turquoise

The Faaker See, or Lake Faak might be Carinthia’s most photogenic lake. Its intense turquoise-blue colour is created by natural limestone minerals in the water.
Because it’s relatively small, the lake feels intimate and stays pleasantly warm throughout summer.
You can rent a paddleboard, go canoeing or simply enjoy a relaxed day at one of the quiet bathing spots.

In September, the lake hosts the famous European Bike Week, drawing visitors from all over Europe. Best for: couples and travellers looking for relaxation and scenic beauty.

Holiday homes at Lake Faak

Weissensee – Pure Nature & Silence

High in the Gailtal Valley at 930 metres, the Weissensee is Carinthia’s most unspoiled lake.
Its northern shore is car-free, making it a paradise for hikers, swimmers and anyone seeking peace.
View our holiday homes at the Weissensee

In winter, the Weissensee transforms into Europe’s largest natural ice surface, popular with ice-skaters.

Hidden Gems – Small Lakes with Big Charm

Beyond the famous five, dozens of smaller lakes are waiting to be discovered:

Pressegger See – shallow, warm and family-friendly
Keutschacher See – peaceful and close to Wörthersee
Turnersee – ideal for camping and birdwatching

These quieter lakes offer space to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Many beaches have shallow water and safe play areas for kids – perfect for a relaxed day by the lake. Learn more about Carinthia’s family-friendly side in Family Holidays in Carinthia.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: June – September for swimming, May & October for hiking.
Temperatures: air 25 °C avg; water up to 26 °C.
Getting there: via the Tauern Motorway (A10) by car, or by train to Villach/Klagenfurt.
Accommodation: large choice of holiday homes and chalets in Carinthia .

Why Choose a Lake Holiday in Carinthia?

Over 200 days of sunshine each year
Warm, clear water for swimming and SUP
Perfect mix of nature and comfort
Ideal for families and relaxation
Wide range of holiday homes and apartments

Summary & Invitation

Whether you prefer the lively Wörthersee, the relaxing Millstätter See or the tranquil Weissensee, each lake in Carinthia has its own story and charm. The lakes are just one reason to fall in love with this sunny region. Discover Carinthia – The Sunny Heart of Austria to explore even more of what makes it special.
Here, the Alps meet the Mediterranean spirit – the perfect blend for a memorable summer.

For those who love to stay close to the water, a holiday home in Austria by the lake is the perfect blend of peace and comfort. On Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu you’ll find a wide selection of holiday homes in Carinthia – some directly on the lake, others surrounded by mountains.

👉 Discover your favourite lake in Carinthia today and enjoy sunshine, tranquillity and clear blue water in the heart of Austria.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carinthia’s Lakes

What are the most beautiful lakes in Carinthia for swimming and relaxation?
The most famous and beautiful are Wörthersee, Millstätter See, Ossiacher See, Faaker See and Weissensee – all known for crystal-clear water and stunning Alpine scenery.

Which lake has the warmest water?
The Faaker See and Pressegger See are among the warmest, reaching up to 26 °C in summer.

Which lake has the warmest water? Close

Are Carinthia’s lakes family-friendly?
Yes – especially the Ossiacher See and Millstätter See, with shallow shores, safe swimming areas and plenty of activities for children.

Are Carinthia’s lakes family-friendly? Close

What’s the best way to travel to Carinthia, Austria?
Carinthia can be reached by car via the Tauern Motorway (A10), by train from major European cities, or by plane to Salzburg, Graz or Ljubljana airports. Once there, excellent roads and local trains make it easy to explore the region.

What’s the best way to travel to Carinthia, Austria? Close