Erlaufsee near Mariazell
This turquoise mountain lake with drinking-water quality is the most popular place to swim in the Mariazellerland – for swimming, stand-up paddling, diving and walking, just a few minutes from our apartments.
The finest bathing lake in the Mariazellerland
The Erlaufsee lies about 3 kilometres north-west of Mariazell at an altitude of 827 metres – right on the border between Styria and Lower Austria. With an area of about 0.58 km² and a length of around 1.5 kilometres, it is a compact but deep mountain lake: at its deepest point it measures 38 metres.
What makes it special: the lake has drinking-water quality. The crystal-clear water allows visibility of up to 20 metres – one reason why the Erlaufsee is so popular not only with bathers, but also with divers and anglers. In summer the water temperature sits at a pleasant 19 to 22 °C and, after several hot days, can even climb to as much as 24 °C.
Swimming & leisure at the Erlaufsee
On the southern shore you will find the lido with its lawn, kiosk and boat hire. Popular activities around the lake:
- Swimming & sunbathing – a gentle entry into the water and a lawn at the lido in the south
- Stand-up paddling, pedalos & rowing boats – available to hire on site
- Diving – the diving area lies on the southern shore; training and guided dives through the local diving schools
- Fishing – an abundant fish stock in the clear water
- Circular trail – a leisurely path leads all the way around the lake
Getting there: from the apartment to the lake
From our apartments in the centre of Mariazell you can reach the Erlaufsee in just a few minutes:
- By car: about 15 minutes along the Erlaufseestraße (around 4.8 km). There is parking at the lake.
- By bus: a scheduled bus runs daily from Mariazell to the Erlaufsee; at weekends a dial-a-ride shared taxi supplements the service.
- On foot / by bike: the more active can walk or cycle along the shore path – a lovely start to a day by the water.
Best time to visit
The bathing season runs from June to September, and the lake is at its warmest in July and August. If you prefer things quieter, come during the week or early in the morning. In spring and autumn, too, the Erlaufsee is well worth a walk around the shore – that is when the turquoise lake lies especially mirror-smooth against the mountain backdrop.
Impressions of the Erlaufsee
Frequently asked questions about the Erlaufsee
How far is the Erlaufsee from Mariazell?
The Erlaufsee lies about 3 kilometres north-west of Mariazell. By car it is roughly 15 minutes along the Erlaufseestraße (around 4.8 km). From our apartments in the town centre you can get there quickly by car, bus or bike.
How warm is the water in the Erlaufsee?
In summer the water temperature is usually between 19 and 22 °C. After several hot days the lake can reach up to 24 °C. As a mountain lake at 827 m it stays pleasantly refreshing even in high summer.
Can you dive in the Erlaufsee?
Yes. Thanks to its drinking-water quality and visibility of up to 20 metres, the Erlaufsee is a popular diving spot. The diving area lies on the southern shore; local diving schools offer equipment, guided dives and training.
Is there a lido and parking?
On the southern shore there is a lido with a lawn, kiosk and boat hire. Parking is available right by the lake. In the high season it is advisable to arrive early.
More around Mariazell
Stay central, reach the lake in minutes.
Eight individual apartments in the heart of Mariazell – the Erlaufsee, the basilica and the mountains are practically on the doorstep. Book directly, city tax included.
View apartments →