Can you actually swim in the lakes around Schladming, or are they too cold?
Yes, you can swim in several lakes around Schladming, particularly during the warmer summer months of July and August. Popular swimming lakes include the Pichl Freizeitsee (Pichl leisure lake), Ramsau Beach, and the Aich leisure lake. These lakes offer pleasant temperatures for swimming and often have designated bathing areas. Some mountain lakes, like Duisitzkarsee, are also swimmable for those brave enough to handle cooler waters, though it's important to be mindful of the natural ecosystem. Always check local signage, as swimming is not permitted in all mountain lakes, especially those in nature reserves like the Steirischer Bodensee.
Is Schladming a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Schladming is an excellent destination for a family holiday that includes water activities, though it's more focused on lakeside leisure parks than traditional sandy beaches. Many lakes like Pichl Freizeitsee and Ramsau Beach offer fantastic amenities for children, including playgrounds, bouncy castles, shallow areas, and various water sports. The Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard, often included with accommodation, provides free access to many of these swimming lakes and outdoor pools, making it a very family-friendly and budget-conscious choice. The region also offers numerous other family activities beyond the water.
What are the 'beaches' in Schladming actually like? Are they sandy?
The 'beaches' in the Schladming area are typically grassy sunbathing lawns and shingle shores surrounding the swimming lakes, rather than traditional sandy beaches you might find by the sea. For example, Ramsau Beach has shingle shores flanked by sprawling lawns. These areas are well-maintained and provide ample space for relaxing, sunbathing, and picnicking, with beautiful mountain scenery as a backdrop.
Do I have to pay to get into the swimming lakes near Schladming?
Many of the swimming lakes and outdoor pools in the Schladming-Dachstein region offer free admission if you have the Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard. This card is provided free of charge by many accommodation providers in the region for guests staying one night or more. For lakes and pools not covered by the Sommercard, or if you don't have one, an entrance fee may apply.
Which is better for families: Pichl Badesee or Ramsau Beach?
Both Pichl Badesee (leisure lake) and Ramsau Beach are excellent choices for families, each with slightly different atmospheres. Ramsau Beach is known for attracting families with lots of energy, offering a wide range of activities like a pirate's nest playground, a 20-meter flight swing, diving platform, and beach volleyball. Pichl Badesee is often described as more peaceful but still offers great amenities like a children's adventure playground, bouncy castle, and volleyball courts. The choice might depend on whether you prefer a more bustling or a slightly quieter environment, though both provide ample fun for children.
What's the water quality like in the Schladming swimming lakes?
The swimming lakes in the Schladming area, such as the Pichl leisure lake and the lake at Ramsau Beach, are known for their clean and high-quality water. The water quality is regularly monitored to ensure it's safe and pleasant for swimming. The Putterersee, a bit further afield, is noted as the warmest alpine moor lake in Styria and also boasts TOP water quality.
Are there any indoor swimming options in Schladming if the weather is bad?
Yes, there are indoor swimming options available. The Erlebnisbad Schladming offers both indoor and outdoor pools, making it a good choice for rainy days. The indoor section features 380 m² of water area with attractions like a current channel, waterfalls, and a slide. Additionally, the Dachstein Bad in Ramsau am Dachstein is another indoor pool facility. For a more extensive spa experience, the Therme Amadé in Altenmarkt is a short drive away and offers a large indoor water area, though it's not covered by the Sommercard.
When is the best time of year to visit Schladming for swimming in the lakes?
The best time for swimming in the lakes around Schladming is during the warmer summer months, typically July and August. During this period, the water temperatures are most pleasant for swimming. While some hardy individuals might swim in mountain lakes from mid/late June, the main leisure lakes and outdoor pools are most enjoyable in peak summer. Many facilities are open from late May/early June until September or early November, depending on the specific location and weather conditions.
Can I bring my dog to the swimming lakes in Schladming?
At some designated swimming lakes, dogs on a leash are allowed on the resting areas or lawns but are generally not permitted in the water itself. These include the leisure facilities at Donnersbach, Donnersbachwald, and Irdning, as well as Ramsau Beach. However, there are numerous small streams and rivers in the region where dogs can cool off. It's always best to check local signage and rules at each specific lake. Some accommodations in Schladming are very dog-friendly and may offer specific advice or even their own dog-friendly swimming spots.
How do I get to the main swimming lakes like Pichl or Ramsau Beach from Schladming town?
The main swimming lakes are generally a short drive or bus ride from Schladming town. For example, Ramsau Beach is about a 15-minute drive. The Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard often includes free use of local public transport and hiking buses, which can be a convenient way to reach some of these leisure areas. For Pichl Badesee, it's also easily accessible by car or local bus services. Some accommodations might also offer shuttle services or advice on the best transport options.
Are there any quiet or hidden swimming spots near Schladming away from the main crowds?
While the main leisure lakes like Pichl and Ramsau Beach are popular, the Schladming-Dachstein region boasts around 300 mountain lakes. Some of these smaller, more remote mountain lakes can offer quieter swimming experiences for those willing to hike to them. For example, Duisitzkarsee is a beautiful mountain lake where swimming is possible, though it requires a hike. It's important to remember that these are natural environments, so care should be taken, and one should be prepared for cooler water. Always respect nature reserve regulations, as swimming is not allowed in all mountain lakes.
What kind of facilities can I expect at the Schladming swimming lakes (e.g., toilets, cafes)?
The main swimming lakes like Pichl Freizeitsee and Ramsau Beach are well-equipped with facilities. You can typically find toilets, changing rooms, cafes or snack bars (Freizeitstüberl at Pichl), sunbathing lawns, and often play areas for children. Many also offer sports facilities like beach volleyball courts, table tennis, and sometimes equipment rental. Mountain lakes accessed by hiking will have fewer or no facilities, though some, like Duisitzkarsee, have mountain huts nearby offering refreshments.
Is Schladming more of a winter ski resort or does it also offer a proper summer holiday experience with swimming?
While Schladming is famous as a winter ski resort, it also offers a fantastic and comprehensive summer holiday experience, including numerous opportunities for swimming and water-based activities. The region transforms in summer, with its many lakes and outdoor pools becoming popular attractions. Activities like hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the lakeside leisure parks are central to a Schladming summer holiday. The Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard further enhances the summer appeal by providing free access to many attractions, including swimming lakes and cable cars.
Are the swimming lakes in Schladming suitable for very young children and toddlers?
Yes, many of the swimming lakes and outdoor pools in the Schladming area are very suitable for young children and toddlers. Lakes like Pichl Freizeitsee and Ramsau Beach often have dedicated children's play areas, shallow entry points to the water, or separate paddling pools. The Erlebnisbad Schladming also has a baby pool with heated water. These facilities are designed with families in mind, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the little ones.
If I'm staying in a hotel in Schladming, will I likely have access to a pool or be close to a swimming lake?
Many hotels in Schladming and the surrounding Schladming-Dachstein region are 'Sommercard Partners', meaning your stay includes the Sommercard which grants free access to public swimming lakes and pools like Pichl Badesee, Ramsau Beach, and the Erlebnisbad Schladming. Some hotels also have their own private swimming ponds or indoor/outdoor pools. For instance, Hotel Schröckerhof has its own natural swimming pond. It's always best to check the specific amenities of your chosen hotel and whether they are a Sommercard partner to understand your access to swimming facilities.
