Lake Kaltern

Lake Kaltern was formed during the last ice age from an old riverbed of the Etsch river (Adige in Italian. Its emerald green water not only impresses with its excellent quality, but can also reach record temperatures in summer. Together with Lake Klopeiner See in Carinthia, this makes it the warmest bathing lake in the Alps.

The bathing season starts in May and ends in September.

Nature reserve on the southern shore

On the southern shore is the Lake Kaltern biotope, a habitat for birds and marshland animals. This nature reserve can be discovered on a nature discovery trail.

In spring and autumn in particular, many migratory birds make a stopover in this reed bed on their long journey to or from the south. These include ospreys, cranes and cormorants. More than a hundred different bird species have already been spotted.

From swimming fun and hiking to sporting and cultural events, Lake Kaltern has something special to offer at any time of year. Active sports enthusiasts as well as nature and wine lovers will get their money's worth.

Mild temperatures already in spring

Much earlier than in the northern parts of Europe, the thermometer starts to climb again in South Tyrol. The best way to explore the spring awakening is on walks through the vineyards, bike tours or hikes in the countryside. The so-called Spring Valley is a particular highlight: the first harbingers of spring can be discovered there as early as February and March.

The mild climate is already favourable for major sporting events. Every year in May, the Lake Kaltern Triathlon is held, in which athletes compete in a 1.5 km swim, 40 km bike ride and 10 km run.

Water sports & (sun)bathing in summer

Sunshine galore on Lake Kaltern: summer days can be enjoyed to the full in, on and beside the water. Water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and kayaking are just waiting to be tried out. The south wind Ora offers ideal conditions for this at midday.

The water is warmer than at any other time and is perfect for swimming.

Those looking to cool off on the mountains rather than in the water don't have to break a sweat: The Mendel funicular railway takes guests up to over 1,360 metres in less than 15 minutes. The panoramic view over the Etschtal Valley and Southern South Tyrolean is breathtaking.

There is also plenty on offer culturally: For more than 20 years, the Lake Stage Performance has been attracting international and national stars to the lake stage. A backdrop that you won't forget in a hurry.

The region around Lake Kaltern is not only an outdoor paradise, but also a place of peace and relaxation. In Merano, about 40 minutes away, everyone can unwind in the diverse sauna and pool landscape of the thermal park. There are also many different wellness hotels with their own spa area around Lake Kaltern.

Small & individual accommodation

On the vineyards and around the shores of Lake Kaltern, there are mainly smaller and family-run accommodations. Great importance is attached to family friendliness.

Architecturally, these hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses blend unobtrusively into the landscape. For most of them, the regional connection is very important, which is also reflected in the cuisine and, of course, the wines on offer.

In addition to their own pool, most hotels also offer free entry to either a private lake access or a lido.