Carinthia’s warm lakes: Ossiach and Wörthersee

Route description

Villach, on the Drau, is a lively town with thermal baths just south. The Landskron ruin stands above Lake Ossiach, a quieter lake for swimming and camping, where the birds-of-prey shows are a favourite with children.

Drive east to the Wörthersee, one of the warmest alpine lakes, with water temperatures often in the mid-20s in summer. Velden is the smart resort at the western end; follow the south shore road to Maria Wörth, where the church on its peninsula is the most photographed view in Carinthia.

Climb the Pyramidenkogel tower for a panorama of the lakes and the Karawanks, then continue to Klagenfurt, the state capital, with its Lindwurm dragon fountain and the Minimundus miniature park. Swimming beaches (called Strandbad) charge entry but have lawns and changing rooms.

Finish north-east of Klagenfurt at Hochosterwitz, a castle on a rock reached through fourteen gates. The lakes are busy in July and August; June and September are warm but calmer, and plenty of campsites line the shores.