Dreamy spots in the Salzkammergut: the Ödseen lakes in Grünau im Almtal

Shaggy and I took advantage of the hot weather for a refreshing tour around the Ödseen lakes in Salzkammergut.

Near the Almsee are the picturesque Ödseen. Even though they are no longer an insider tip (so it's worth starting early in the morning), they have lost none of their magic. The two lakes, surrounded by crystal-clear and crystal-blue streams as well as a waterfall, make this little corner of the earth something very special. 🏞️ A very short and absolutely recommendable hike for young and old.

Warning: There is no mobile phone reception at the Ödseen! 📵

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike to the Ödseen lakes in the Salzkammergut

Anyone who wants to visit the Ödseen can do so very easily. The only prerequisite is that you must arrive by car or bicycle (if you don't want to walk up from the main road). The circular path itself is easy and should not be a problem for most people (basic fitness is, of course, a prerequisite).

Anyone wishing to extend the hike can go up to the Herrentisch. We didn't do this as I am still injured in the leg, but this would only be a small detour. ⛰️

We started at the car park near the Almtalerhaus and first went through the forest towards the Kleiner Ödsee. Afterwards, we rejoined the road (caution – best avoided with dogs in the summer) before turning off towards the Großer Ödsee. There is also an alternative route via a footpath, but we wanted to do the circular tour this time. 😄

Just before you reach the large Ödsee, there’s a waterfall, and this forest path then takes you back to the small Ödsee and on to the starting point. As always, you’ll find the Komoot tour at the very bottom of the post.

Throughout the hike, you'll repeatedly pass great viewpoints and can enjoy the sight of the lakes. 🤩 Shaggy also took every opportunity to cool off in all the bodies of water. 😂 We also made a new friend along the way:

Key Data for the Hike around the Ödseen

✅ Approx. 6 km
✅ ~ 160 hectares
✅ Around 1.5 hours
✅ Refreshment stop with vegetarian options 🌱
✅ Free parking available (limited)
✅ Cooling-off options in the lakes
Please stick to the paths
⚠️ The circular route is not possible with a pram or wheelchair, however, it is possible to take the forest road to the lakes without doing the circular route.

⚠️ ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed trails. Before hiking, check the availability of the trail and reflect on your own fitness.

Getting there and parking for the hike to the Ödseen lakes

The journey can be made by car or bicycle. You can park directly at the start of the hike (see my Komoot tour further down). The Ödseen are located in the direction of Almsee – shortly before Almsee, the road then turns left up to the Ödseen. You can start navigation directly from the Komoot app by selecting „Directions“. 🗺️

Places to stop for refreshments during the hike to the Ödseen

Anyone who is hungry and thirsty can directly – either before or after the hike – at the start/finish I'm at the Almtalerhaus Stop for refreshment. There, for your hunger, you'll find a vegan lentil dal and some cool, refreshing drinks. 🍲

My conclusion on the hike around the Ödseen

I found the short, refreshing tour truly wonderful. I was here 6 years ago and this will definitely not be the last time I visit. My absolute highlight was all the butterflies and also the wonderful colours of the entire landscape. 🏞️🦋🤩

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! 🤩 Have a read here: Short hike on the Miesweg by Lake Traunsee – beautiful alpine walk in the Salzkammergut