Gosau, Rural municipality in Gmunden District, Austria
Gosau is a rural municipality in Gmunden District that spreads across green slopes at the foot of the Dachstein mountain range. The terrain is marked by meadows, forests, and valley formations where several lakes nestle among the peaks.
Monks from St Peter's Abbey in Salzburg first settled the valley in the 13th century to harvest timber and develop the land. This early monastic presence shaped how the region grew and was organized over following centuries.
The population here follows predominantly Protestant traditions, which sets it apart from many other Austrian communities. You can see this religious character reflected in local customs and how the village conducts its daily life.
The place is easily accessible and offers different activities depending on the season: skiing slopes in winter and extensive mountain hiking trails in summer. Visitors should expect changing weather and bring clothing suitable for all conditions.
At the southern end of the valley lies Vorderer Gosausee, a lake whose waters mirror the Dachstein peaks on clear days. Most visitors overlook this spot even though it offers some of the most striking views in the entire region.
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