A Family Adventure to Altaussee, Austria
From Bratislava to the Heart of the Alps
Our trip to Altaussee, Austria began in Bratislava, Slovakia, a scenic drive of about 4.5 hours (roughly 370 km) through rolling hills and alpine valleys. The journey itself felt like part of the adventure, with winding roads leading us deeper into Austria’s lake district.
Where We Stayed
We made our home at the AlpenParks Hagan Lodge Altaussee, a family-friendly and dog-friendly lodge village tucked right at the base of the magnificent Loser mountain. Each wooden lodge felt cozy yet spacious, perfect for both kids and our pup. The location couldn’t have been better—just minutes from the town of Altaussee and its beautiful lake, with easy access to hiking trails and lifts. A pleasant one-hour nature walk connected the lodge to the lake and town, making it easy to explore without needing the car.
Hiking
Loser Peak via Almsee Rundweg & Fenster
Distance: ~7 km loop
Elevation gain: ~450 m
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (rocky sections, narrow paths)
Time: 3–4 hours
We took the Panorama Bahn lift (conveniently located just down the street from our lodge) to the starting point of the Loser Peak hike - Almsee Rundweg trail, which loops past the small mountain lake of Almsee. Along the way, we passed the striking rock formation known as Loser Fenster (the “window” rock). The path from here became more rugged, climbing over rocky terrain and switchbacks. The kids were the first at the peak and even my elderly parents managed it with some encouragement. At the Loser summit cross (1,838 m), the effort was rewarded with stunning 360° views—the Dachstein Glacier, Grundlsee, Altausseer See, and even into the Styrian valleys.
For the descent, we opted for the trail leading to the Loser Hütte, a welcoming alpine hut just below the peak. Here we enjoyed a hearty traditional Austrian lunch of käsespätzle and schnitzel before continuing down via the Panorama Bahn lift.
🐶 Dog Tip: If you’re bringing your furry friend on the lift, remember that a muzzle is required. Don’t worry if you forget—just like us, you can easily pick one up at the ticket window.
A Hike to Tressensteinwarte
Distance: ~4.5 km round trip
Elevation gain: ~300 m
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Another memorable hike was the trek to the Tressensteinwarte, a lookout tower perched above Altaussee. The path led us mostly through shady woods, making it family-friendly even on warmer days. At the top stands a wooden lookout perched at 1,201 m. Climbing the spiral staircase to the top platform, we were greeted by sweeping views over the Salzkammergut lake district—Altausseer See glittering below, the larger Grundlsee just beyond, and the jagged peaks of Dachstein rising in the distance.
For a late lunch we stopped at Gasthof Trisselwand.
Time at Lake Altaussee
Afternoons were reserved for the Altausseer See, a shimmering alpine lake framed by mountains with the Dachstein massif rising dramatically in the distance. The kids loved leaping into the icy-cold water, and we mixed up our time on the lake by renting paddle boards one day and a slow electric boat the next. Being out on the water offered a whole new perspective on the surrounding peaks and tranquil shoreline.
Exploring Altaussee Town
The town of Altaussee itself was charming, with small restaurants, pastry shops, and bakeries where we stocked up on breakfast treats. Our favorite was Backer Maislinger. We also had lunch at Brahms Cafe Seeterrassee but other than the views of the lake, it didn’t impress us.
A scenic walking path circles the lake - Lake Altaussee Circuit (Seerundweg), perfect for leisurely strolls with plenty of photo stops.
Distance: ~7 km loop
Elevation gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy, family-friendly
Time: 1.5–2 hours
The public beach offered more fun with a pier for jumping into the water, rentals for boats and paddle boards, and a lakeside restaurant where we indulged in rhubarb cake with ice cream—a sweet reward after an active day.
Visiting the Altaussee Salt Mine (Salzwelten Altaussee)
Just a 10-minute drive (or about a 1-hour scenic walk) from AlpenParks Hagan Lodge, the Altaussee Salt Mine is a fascinating mix of history, geology, and adventure. It’s Austria’s largest active salt mine and one of the most impressive attractions in the Salzkammergut region.
Guided tours last about 90 minutes, taking you deep inside the mountain through tunnels, caverns, and sparkling salt chambers.
You’ll learn about the “White Gold” that shaped the region and discover the incredible story of how Nazi-looted art was hidden and saved here during World War II.
The mine maintains a cool temperature year-round (around 8°C / 46°F), so bring a jacket—even in summer!
Great for kids ages 4+ (helmets and jackets are provided).
Fun interactive displays and light effects inside make it more of an adventure than a museum.
You’ll even get to slide down the wooden miner’s slide — a highlight for both kids and adults!
🐶 Dog Tip: Dogs are not allowed inside the mine, but the nearby area offers plenty of shady walking paths if someone stays outside with your pup.
💡 Tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially in summer. Don’t miss the Panoramic lookout over Altausseer See just above the entrance — it’s one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Stop by the gift shop for unique salt-based souvenirs. Parking is available directly at the Salzwelten entrance. There is also a seasonal shuttle bus from Altaussee town center.
Why Altaussee is Perfect for Families
What made Altaussee truly special was the balance it offered: adventurous alpine hikes, relaxing lake days, charming town life, and comfortable family accommodation all rolled into one. For families (and dog owners) looking for a mix of outdoor activities and cozy downtime, it’s a destination that ticks every box.
