Carinthian Lakes

The silence of the mountains, the gentle shores of crystal-clear lakes, pure nature—nestled in the heart of Carinthia, the region around Villach reflects this rich diversity. Even the Romans, likely the first to visit these baths, valued the relaxation and healing these thermal springs offer, and Paracelsus himself appreciated their restorative powers. Use your arrival day to unwind and explore at a leisurely pace.

Hotel (example): Voco

Leaving Villach, you follow the Seebach stream and enjoy views of the Landskron Castle ruins, visible on clear days from Villach and far beyond. Take in the picturesque scenery: the lush green slopes of the Gerlitzen mountains in the foreground and the deep blue of Lake Ossiach in the background. This vast “bathtub” stretches eleven kilometers long and, like most Carinthian lakes, boasts drinking water quality. In Ossiach, you’ll be captivated both by the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters, which can warm up to 27°C (81°F) in summer, and by the 11th-century monastery featuring a magnificent late Baroque church. Make stops at the lakeside resorts of Steindorf and Bodensdorf before returning to Villach to complete today’s tour.

Hotel (example): Voco

You’ll begin cycling along the Drava River bike path before winding through the picturesque, traditional farmland of Carinthia. Your next stop is the vibrant town of Velden on Lake Wörthersee, where the clear turquoise waters and lively atmosphere invite you to pause and enjoy the celebrity buzz. From there, the route leads through gently rolling hills into the scenic Keutschach Valley, scattered with flower-adorned farmhouses, soft hills, forested mountains, and charming villages. The lakes Hafnersee, Keutschacher See, Baßgeigensee, and Rauschelesee encircle the popular bathing resort of Keutschach. Finally, the Lend Canal along the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee guides you into Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia.

Hotel (example): Weidenhof

Klagenfurt, known as “The Rose of Lake Wörthersee” captivates with its charming old town. Built by Italian architects in the 16th and 17th centuries, its southern flair has been beautifully preserved through the centuries. According to legend, the Lindwurm, a mythical dragon-like creature and the city’s symbol, once lived here. Today, winding alleys, romantic arcaded courtyards, churches, and grand townhouses invite you to explore. Leaving Klagenfurt along the Glan River, you’ll cross gentle hills, passing through villages and forests until you reach the Drava. Following the Drava bike path past Lake Völkermarkt, you arrive at the warmest bathing lake in Austria: Lake Klopein. Enjoy the stunning scenery and take a refreshing dip in its inviting waters.

Hotel (example): Hotel Greif

From Lake Klopein, you’ll cycle back to the Völkermarkt reservoir and then follow the Glan-Gurk bike path to the historic ducal town of Völkermarkt, the capital of the Jaun Valley. Along the way, stunning views of the Carinthian landscape accompany you to Hochosterwitz Castle. It’s impressive to see what nature first shaped here—and how people later transformed it. Rising dramatically from the fields, a 150-meter (about 492 feet) high limestone cliff with steep slopes on all sides was turned into an impregnable fortress. Nearby, numerous castles and palaces stand as reminders of the former significance of St. Veit, the historic regional capital.

Hotel (example): Fuchspalast

For centuries, St. Veit was the capital of the region and long served as the seat of the Carinthian bishop. The city walls, medieval main square, magnificent Renaissance houses, charming, arcaded courtyards, the ducal castle, and numerous monuments still bear witness to this rich history. Heading westward, you’ll cycle along the Glan River toward Glanegg, where the castle ruins stand visible from afar. The bike path then leads you through Feldkirchen straight to the beautiful Lake Ossiach. After a relaxing break, you’ll return to your start and end point in the lovely town of Villach.

Hotel (example): Voco

Leaving Warmbad Villach behind, you cycle eastward along the foot of the Karawanks to the final lake of your journey—the stunning turquoise Faaker See. Dominating the skyline is Mittagskogel, a towering rock giant. The lake is framed by meadows and woodland edges, and even features a charming, wooded island. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters before setting off on your return. Crossing a gentle ridge, you’ll arrive at the shimmering, gray-green Drava River. From there, the smooth, flat Drava bike path will carry you back to Villach with ease.

Hotel (example): Voco

Make your way home at your own pace or indulge in a few extra days exploring the Carinthian Lakes region—it’s truly worth it.