Rivers, lakes and streams
Rivers, lakes, and streams – it’s not just the major lakes of the region like Lake Presseggersee or Lake Weissensee that have a lot to offer. The slightly more hidden gems of the World of Mountains & Lakes are wonderful locations for taking a dip as well. Be it the turbulent river Gail, the enchanting Lake Zollnersee at 1,800 metres above sea level, or the awe-inspiring Garnitzenklamm gorge: The bodies of water found in the Nassfeld-Pressegger See region are definitely well worth a visit!
Immerse yourself and discover the expansive World of Lakes. You’ll be amazed – promise!
The Gail – a river that packs a punch
The river Gail originates in the pristine Lesachtal Valley and then winds its way through Gailtal Valley all the way to Villach where it joins the Drau. Along its shores, holiday guests can discover a variety of rare species of plants and endangered animals which explains its popularity with nature lovers from all over. With its 122 kilometres in length, the Gail flows through several different landscapes. If you follow it downriver, you’ll end up in the Nassfeld-Pressegger See region.
Whether it’s a refreshing swim in the water, an adventure by kayak or raft, or just enjoying nature: The river is the perfect location for cooling off in summer.
lake Zollner See
At Lake Zollnersee, you’re only a few steps away from the “dolce vita” in Italy. Embedded in the hiking region of the Carnic Alps, this lake is the perfect location for infinite moments of joy in nature. Hikers are practically served cross-border experiences on a silver platter thanks to the area’s proximity to the neighbouring country of Italy.
The lake is also the starting point for many leisurely hikes and walks. It’s geographical location in the western Nassfeld region – surrounded by quiet moorlands – makes it ideal for relaxing and unwinding in a pristine natural setting. And not too far from its western shores, guests find two beautiful locations for a break: If you’d like to quench your hunger and thirst, you might want to stop at the Alpine hut “Zollnersee Hütte” (a Slow Food Travel partner business). If you’re looking for a special place of contemplation, you’ll find it at the “Friedenskapelle” (Peace Chapel).
Tip: For some entertainment during your hike, you should visit the Zollnersee Geo-Trail.
Garnitzenklamm
Time leaves its traces. And the Garnitzenklamm is no exception to that. Throughout the course of history, the water caved out the rock of the Carnic Alps creating a four-kilometre gorge: 10,000-year-old Garnitzenklamm.
The awe-inspiring gorge isn’t just a place to feel at one with nature. On hot summer days, holiday guests also enjoy Garnitzenklamm’s cooler temperatures. Many locations for a break and well-signposted trails through the gorge make its mountain stream a popular excursion destination.
Weißenbachklamm
Another hikers’ paradise along a gushing stream can be found at the Gösseringgraben. Steps, rocks and gravel trails blend in with the breathtaking landscape of the Weißenbachklamm. And on the educational trail with its five sections, both little and grown up adventurers can learn more about nature at the gorge.
Mauthner Klamm
200 metres in height, rockfaces wherever you look, several suspension bridges, and a tunnel through the rock: The Mauthner Klamm is truly impressive. The gorge also consists of two sections – an anterior and a posterior one – the latter of which is called “Klabautersteig”.
Location and how to find us
The Nassfeld-Pressegger See holiday region lies in the Austrian province of Carinthia, directly next to the Italian border.
