Discover the most beautiful corners around Lake Wörthersee with Jean David Wiessmann.
Clear, blue water, the mountains in front of you and a small castle in the background – for that alone, Lake Wörthersee is always worth a trip. But there is much more hidden all around. We asked Jean David, our Experience Concierge from Schlosshotel Velden and a member of Les Clefs d’Or, to tell us a few of his insider tips. Come with him on a discovery tour!Once around
Lake Wörthersee is a real highlight in itself. But it’s especially nice to explore the region around the lake on foot or by bike and stop at one of the many lookout spots to enjoy the view. If you are more in hiking mode, the mountains around Lake Wörthersee have a lot to offer. Jean David has picked out his favourite hiking routes for you, starting and ending at our Schlosshotel:- To the wishing tree on the Kathreinkogel: Over meadows and through forests, you go up to the Kathreinkogel. A unique view, an old church, archaeological excavations and Austria’s only wishing tree, where everyone can make their own personal wish, await you at the summit.
- To the Hochwart castle ruins on the Sternberg: Into the Teufelsgraben (Devil’s Ditch) and up to the Sternberg, you hike where Celts and Romans once set up camp.
- 3-lake circuit: Past villas and into the Roman gorge, you first go to the Forstsee, then to the small lake and finally to the Saissersee and back to Velden.
If you prefer to experience the water up close, come aboard and enjoy a boat trip on Lake Wörthersee.
High up
If you are drawn to the skies, we have a very special experience for you. A balloon flight over Carinthia’s lakes and mountains. If the weather conditions are right, the hot air balloon can even take off directly from the rose garden of the Schlosshotel. And if the gentle glide through the air is a little too “quiet”, the balloon can be replaced by a helicopter. For those who prefer to feel the ground under their feet or tyres, the High Alpine Road is practically on the castle’s doorstep. Driving fun is guaranteed on 36 hairpin bends, past one or other idyllic hut. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Austria’s highest mountain, the Großglockner.Motorsport fans take note: For a driving experience in a class of its own, Jean David and his team will be happy to organise a nippy sports car or a Harley Davidson for you.
Off to mystical places
For all excursion enthusiasts, our Experience Concierge has picked out a few highlights:- Sea Eye in the Bodental: The small, turquoise-coloured pond in the middle of the Karawanken is truly astonishing. The Meerauge is a dead ice hole that was formed during the last ice age and is said to be connected to the sea.
- Obir Dripstone Caves: Discovered in 1870, the caves are considered one of Austria’s most fascinating natural wonders. Particularly impressive is the “organ”, a 6-metre high and 12-metre wide stalactite wall.
- Tscheppaschlucht Gorge: Winding paths, bridges and ladders lead you over deep gorges, steep cliffs, impressive flora and fauna, always past a torrent that is still calm at first and presents its original natural power as it progresses.
