Erlauf-Stausee, lake in Lower Austria, Austria
The Erlauf-Stausee is a reservoir in Lower Austria, close to the village of Mitterbach am Erlaufsee, set between forested hills and mountain ridges. A dam holds back the water to create a wide, open surface bordered by walking paths on both sides.
The reservoir was created in the early 20th century to store water and generate electricity for the surrounding region. As its industrial role faded over the decades, people began using it more and more as a place to spend time outdoors.
The Erlauf-Stausee is popular with anglers who fish for trout along its banks. The still water also draws kayakers and walkers who spend time close to the water rather than on marked trails.
The path around the lake is flat and well maintained, making it easy to walk for most visitors regardless of their fitness level. Getting there by car or public transport from Mitterbach is straightforward, and parking is available near the water.
A water trail loops around the reservoir and uses simple panels to explain the springs, fish species, and plants that live in and around the water. It is short enough to walk in one go and gives a concrete sense of how the whole water system connects.
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