Day 2: At Lake Attersee

After a leisurely breakfast, we made our way to the lake, where we wanted to visit an alpaca farm.

The animals were absolutely adorable. I like alpacas anyway, but I have rarely seen them this close.

Afterwards, we also visited the associated alpaca shop, where products made from the wool of these fluffy animals were sold.

There were hats, scarves, sweaters, and numerous lovingly crafted souvenirs.

We continued on to Seewalchen, where we visited the famous pile dwellings. These prehistoric settlements are among the oldest archaeological finds in Europe and offer a fascinating glimpse into life thousands of years ago. They are located right along the pretty promenade.

After that, we decided to rent an electric boat and go out onto the lake.

The weather was gorgeous again, and so we enjoyed the ride on this beautiful body of water to the fullest. The hour passed far too quickly, and then it was time to return the boat.

Of course, we also had to go for a swim—there’s no way I would ever pass up a dip in the lake!

After that refreshing time in the water, we made our way to the other end of the lake, where there is a hiking trail leading to the so-called Nixenfall.

The trail is particularly lovely for families with children. Along the way, there are various activity stations where the little ones can play or explore.

The Nixenfall itself is a waterfall plunging 80 meters down into the valley.

It takes its name from a legend about the water nymph Adhara, who is said to have provided the inhabitants of the lake region with gold and precious stones so they would not go hungry. But the people became greedy, and so the nymph disappeared—yet she left behind the shimmer and sparkle for which the lake is still known today.

The hiking trail was very pleasant, an easy path with only a slight incline at the end.

The waterfall flows into a basin. It was not deep enough for swimming, but I stood under the waterfall in my swimsuit and enjoyed the cold water on my skin.

On the way back, we stopped at a supermarket to pick up something to eat, which we then enjoyed by the hotel pool.

What a wonderful and adventurous day!