NiederauWildschönau · Tyrol

Activities

Swimming and water fun around Niederau

Mountain lakes, pools and water fun within driving distance of the Wildschönau.

A holiday in the Alps is not only about mountains: around Niederau you can simply go swimming on a warm day. Between Niederau and Oberau lies the Freischwimmbad Wildschönau, an outdoor pool open in summer, roughly May to September. It has a sports pool, a pool for toddlers, a sunbathing lawn and a large water slide, among other things. In Oberau there is also the Drachental leisure park with a play lake.

If you want a proper lake, head into the Tyrolean Unterland. The Reintaler See near Kramsach covers about 29 hectares in three basins; according to Tyrolean sources the Walchsee, with temperatures up to about 24 degrees, is one of the warmest bathing lakes in Tyrol and has a playground and an aqua fun park. For these lakes allow a drive of roughly half an hour to three quarters of an hour, and check entry and facilities beforehand.

Mountain water is often cooler than what you know from lowland lakes, and in poor weather you need a backup. Many accommodations have their own pool or sauna, and the region has more pools and spa facilities. The individual lakes and pools are described below; always check the season and opening times. Bring towels, sun cream and dry clothes to every spot; many pools have a kiosk, but not everywhere offers much shade.

Open-air pool in Niederau

Tips

  • Bring water shoes for stony shores.
  • Arrive early on warm days: the most popular lakes fill up.
  • An extra towel and dry clothes for children are worth packing.
  • Check weather and opening times beforehand.
  • Plan an ice cream or a break after swimming.

When to swim?

The outdoor pools and bathing lakes are generally suitable in summer, especially in July and August when the water is warmest. In June and September the water can still be cool. The Freischwimmbad Wildschönau opens only in the summer season, roughly May to September, and depends on the weather. Ask about dates in advance, and in a thunderstorm or cold spell choose an indoor pool or spa. Have a plan B ready for changeable weather so the day does not fall through.

Safety with children

Always keep small children within reach, even in shallow water. Mountain lakes get deep quickly and may have cold currents. Swim only in designated areas, heed warning signs and do not let children enter the water alone with inflatables. Bring sun cream and a hat: the sun is stronger at altitude than you expect. An inflatable ring gives only a false sense of safety, so always stay close and teach children the water rules beforehand. Bring something to drink and a snack for just before or after swimming.

Summer

Kaiserbad Ellmau

Pool complex with outdoor pool and natural pond below the Wilder Kaiser

Walchsee

One of the warmest bathing lakes in Tyrol

Frequently asked questions

How warm is the water in the mountain lakes?

It varies by lake and by day. In high summer it is often pleasant but cooler than lowland lakes. Ask on site.

Are there swimming options when it rains?

Yes, the region has indoor pools and spa facilities, and many accommodations have their own pool. Check opening times and access rules beforehand.

Do I have to pay entrance at the lakes?

The Freischwimmbad Wildschönau and many lidos charge an entrance fee; some lakes are freely accessible. It varies, so check the page for the pool or lake in question first.

Stay in Niederau Partner

Hotel Wastlhof, partner of Niederau.nl, is a family-run hotel with an indoor and an outdoor pool, wellness and its own riding stables, right in the village. For more places to stay and information you can also contact the Wildschönau tourist office.

To Hotel Wastlhof · Wildschönau tourist office · More about staying in Niederau