Mallnitz, nestled in the Austrian Alps, might not be the first place that comes to mind for a traditional sandy beach holiday. However, this charming alpine village serves as an excellent gateway to Carinthia, Austria's southernmost province, renowned for its stunning array of over 200 crystal-clear lakes. Visitors often wonder if they can enjoy swimming here, and the answer is a resounding yes, with many lakes boasting remarkably pure water, often of drinking quality, and surprisingly warm temperatures perfect for a refreshing dip during summer.
While Mallnitz itself offers the Tauernbad indoor pool, the true "beach" experiences lie a short journey away. Carinthia's lakes provide diverse settings for water enthusiasts. For iconic lakeside glamour and vibrant scenes, Strandbad Velden on the famous Wörthersee is a premier choice. If stunning turquoise waters, majestic mountain backdrops, and family fun are what you seek, Lake Faak is an unmissable destination, known for Carinthia's longest water slide.
For those staying in Mallnitz and looking for a substantial lake experience relatively close by, Millstätter Strandbad on Millstätter See offers comprehensive facilities. For a more serene and natural escape, the pristine, fjord-like Weissensee provides a unique alpine swimming adventure. Carinthia is also celebrated for some of Europe's warmest bathing lakes, like Lake Klopeiner See, adding to the variety. Our guide features a longer list of Carinthian lakes, each with its own distinct charm, ensuring options for every preference, from active holidays to peaceful relaxation by the water.
