Millstätter See, Alpine lake in Carinthia, Austria
Millstätter See is an Alpine lake in Carinthia that stretches approximately 12 kilometers from east to west. At its deepest point, the water reaches about 142 meters and sits nestled within the mountainous landscape of the Gurktal Alps.
The lake formed around 20,000 years ago when melting glaciers of the Drava left a deep trench in the landscape. This glacial origin continues to shape the lake's appearance and characteristics today.
The water is named after Millstatt Abbey, which has defined the northern shore since its founding in the 11th century. The site became a spiritual and cultural hub for the region and continues to draw visitors interested in the connection between the lake and the monastery.
The lake offers swimming options through five free access points and twelve designated lidos along its shores. Water temperatures reach around 25 degrees Celsius during summer months, creating pleasant conditions for swimming.
Despite its smaller surface area compared to other lakes in the region, this body of water contains more water than any other in Carinthia. The lake's considerable depth allows for this exceptional water volume, making it the most water-rich lake in the state.
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