Hike along the Almsee lake

The hike along the Almsee, not the first time I've been there this year. But I hadn't been on this route before. An easy, leisurely walk - few metres in altitude - perfect for a relaxed excursion. 

I love hikes, walks and all excursions that lead along or around a lake. Alongside the Langbath lakes, the Almsee is one of my favourite destinations when I want to go on a nice tour with my dog. However, I try to add variety to these routes so that it's not always the same. At Langbathsee I often take the route via the Signalkogel and at Almsee I usually go up the Ameisstein first. This time I tried a new route for me and of course I don't want to withhold it from you. 

Directions & parking facilities

The journey to the starting point at the Jagersimmerl car park is by car, unfortunately I have not found any real plans for public transport. Take the A1 motorway to the Laakirchen West exit past the paper mills, drive through Laakirchen in the direction of Gmunden. There are two roundabouts - take the second exit at both. Follow this road for approx. 13.5 km in the direction of Scharnstein. Shortly before you reach Scharnstein, turn right and cycle along the road to Scharten and on to Grünau im Almtal. From here it is about 9 kilometres to the Jagersimmerl car park, our starting point.

Start and access - Hike along the Almsee - Details

This time the starting point is not at the main car park at the Almsee, but about 3 kilometres earlier at the „Jagersimmerl“ square. You should set off earlier as there are not too many car parking spaces. From here you can also reach the Ödseen lakes, a highly recommended excursion, which I will definitely write another post about later. From the car park, take a short walk along the gravel path over the bridge and then turn right into the forest a short time later. The path to the lake is already described here and you can't miss it. A beautiful forest path leads you over hill and dale to the Almsee lake, where you cover the most metres in altitude. 

Once you have managed this, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view. Most of you will know the route from here. You walk along the water to the main car park, where you have earned a little break. Have a bite to eat, a drink and then you can continue your walk or make your way back. I decided to walk a little further. Past the car park, you follow a gravel path for about 3 kilometres. This path takes you to the foot of the mountain range you can see. Unfortunately, I don't know what they are called exactly, so if any of you know more, please let me know.

I don't need to say too much about the way back. Why not? - The outward and return routes are the same. I normally prefer circular hiking trails, but not for the hike along the Almsee. Of course, you could make a great loop out of it, but you would have to walk back along the road. I'm happy to do without that and prefer to take the beautiful path along the water.

Brief key data

• ✅approx. 17 km
• ✅approx. 280 metres in altitude
• ✅Duration 4.5 - 5 hours (pure walking time)
• Suitable for children and dogs
• ✅Refreshment stops 
• ✅Possibility to swim in the Almsee
• ⚠️Festes Footwear recommended
• ⚠️Kein Grazing cattle 

⚠️ 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.

What you can look forward to on this hike

You can tackle this tour all year round.

In the cold months, when there is snow, this route turns into a winter wonderland. In summer, when the temperatures are a little higher, it's a great route with an opportunity to cool off in the Almsee lake.

⚠️ATTENTION: Swimming in the lake is at your own risk.

Refreshments & catering

If you like to stop off somewhere after a successful hike, then you'll get your money's worth here. In the Gasthof Seehaus am Almsee you can get everything your heart desires. Something to drink, tasty food to fortify yourself, or simply enjoy a coffee and the view. The food on offer is based on seasonal products from the region. 

Opening hours Status June 2023

Expected from 5 April to 1 November - Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. Kitchen hours are from 11:30 to 14:30 and in the evening on request. Monday and Tuesday closed.

For the time in between, the Almsee kiosk offers a perfect alternative for small appetites with a selection of punch, farmer's doughnuts and much more.

My summary of the hike along the Almsee

Well, what else can you say? I've already been to the Almsee in winter and it won't be the last time I've been there this year. Compared to the „Hike up the Ameisstein and around the Almsee lake“, this tour is perfect for a leisurely stroll. So if you would like to go on an excursion but don't feel like doing anything strenuous, this tour is just the thing for you. Just don't forget to pack your swimming trunks or bikini if it's nice and warm. Then nothing stands in the way of a perfect day.

Komoot tour to follow yourself