Peace and quiet, cross-country skiing and winter hiking
In summer, Lake Achensee is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. People sail, sub, row and swim, and the lake is bustling with activity. It is a beautiful and therefore very touristy place. In winter, most of that activity disappears. The cold brings peace to the lake, making Lake Achensee an ideal winter destination for people who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Small-scale winter sports area
There are three small ski areas around the Achensee: Karwendel/Zwölferkopf, the Rofan area and Christlum. The latter is the largest ski area of the three, with around thirty kilometres of ski slopes. For someone who likes to spend the whole day on skis, it is a bit limited, but it is ideal for less experienced skiers and people who enjoy peace and quiet.
Large-scale cross-country skiing area
In winter, the Achensee is better known for its cross-country trails. With around 200 kilometres of trails, it is a true paradise for cross-country skiers, both classic and skate. The routes are located in different places and at different altitudes, allowing you to ski along the Achensee itself, but also through beautiful snow-covered valleys. There are routes for every level here.
Walking in the snow
The Achensee is not only a great place to walk in summer, but also in winter. There are more than 150 kilometres of beautifully prepared winter walking trails. You don't need special snowshoes on the prepared routes, just warm clothing and good walking boots. We recommend the circular walk near the village of Steinberg am Rofan. As soon as it starts to get dark, this route is illuminated, making it a fairytale walk. A walk along the Achensee is also a must.
Snowshoeing at Lake Achensee
In addition to regular walks, it is also possible to go on a walk with special snowshoes. Instead of walking on prepared hiking trails, you can venture into the peaceful countryside. You can do this on your own or with a guide. Guides know the area and can tell you everything about nature and where to find certain animals, such as chamois and ibex. They also know which routes are safe. If you go out on your own, pay close attention to the signs and do not stray from the routes. Safety comes first.
Other winter activities at Lake Achensee
Lake Achensee has several sports to offer in winter. For example, you can go ice skating. Sometimes this is possible on the lake itself, but there are also small ice rinks where skaters can enjoy themselves. In addition to ice skating, there is space for snowkiting and there are several winter toboggan runs. The Alpine sport of ice stock shooting, or Bavarian curling, is also practised here. So if you want to try it, you've come to the right place.
Take the cable car into the snow
Even in winter, it is possible to take the cable car up into the mountains. There are two larger cable cars at the Achensee: the Rofanbahn near Maurach and the Karwendelbergbahn near Pertisau. Both are used by winter sports enthusiasts, but are also accessible to hikers and visitors who come mainly for the view.
Once at the top of the Rofanbahn, you will find ski slopes as well as prepared hiking trails.
The Karwendelbergbahn is best known for its unique appearance, with five gondolas in a row, but it also takes you to a place with fantastic views over the lake. Here, too, there are several hiking trails that are easily accessible in the snow.
Winter at the Achensee shows a different side of the area than in summer. Whereas the lake is the centre of activity in the warmer months, in winter it is all about peace, space and the landscape. Whether you go cross-country skiing, hiking or simply enjoy the view from a cable car, the Achensee is a winter destination for those who like to experience the Alps at a more leisurely pace.
