Two of my favorite photos are the ones of the tree framed Plansee, Austria along with my wife Diane on the shore. It is a short drive from either the Neuschwanstein Castle or the German resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. With exceptionally clear water it is popular with snorkelers and row boaters. It is also know for hikers, joggers and fishermen. I was there in the winter, so I’m sure warmer weather would make beautiful photo opportunities. A very quiet and relaxing location with small villages along the lake for dining. It is located in the heart of the Lechtal Alps, the Wetterstein Mountains and the Mieming Range.
If you are driving south from Salzburg or visiting the picturesque village of Hallstatt, Austria a very short detour to the Gosausee is worth it. Lake Gosau is very serene and emerald green in color and I have read the water is so pure it is suitable for drinking (but I did not try that). There is an easy to walk pathway all around the small lake that is so quiet, you feel all alone in a wonderous place. The Gasthof Gosausee is on the lake shore and serves up great food attested by my wife and another couple. We did not stay overnight, but it looked so very romantic. If you choose not to do the lake path walk, there is also a mountain cable car. Gosausee is located in the highest mountains of the Salzkammergut with tremendous views of the famous Dachstein.
The Achensee, Austria may qualify more as a medium sized lake. Known for its beautiful turquoise color and located a short drive from both Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Innsbruck with stunning mountain scenery of the Karwendel and Rofan mountains. A few villages dot the shores and passenger boats are readily available. It is the largest lake in the Tyrol region. Also for a nice ride we took the scenic Achensee railway ride which has the oldest steam cog train in Europe.
Lastly, I’ve include one from Switzerland. It is Taraspsee which has been labeled as a hidden gem. My photo of Lake Tarasp is from the castle perched above which was built in 1040 by the lords of Tarasp, who had moved to the Engadin from the Lake Como region. Tarasp has collection of antique, modern and contemporary art with a sculpture park in Sent. This place is located a short diversion drive from Davos.
