Most Beautiful Places and Views in Oberau, Austria

A Natural Paradise in Salzburg

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Oberau is a charming village known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As you wander through this picturesque landscape, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where history meets nature. From tranquil lakeside views to towering mountain peaks, Oberau offers an array of stunning sights that will leave visitors spellbound.

The Altenmarkt Square

At the heart of Oberau lies the historic Altenmarkt Square. This vibrant square is surrounded by half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a fairytale. The square is often the focal point for local events and festivals, making it a perfect spot to experience the community's lively spirit.

Lake Zell

Just a short drive from Oberau, Lake Zell is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. This large alpine lake offers serene views of the surrounding mountains and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on its sandy shores. On clear days, you can even spot the peaks of the Untersberg mountain range in the distance.

The Untersberg

For those seeking a panoramic view of Oberau and the surrounding area, climbing to the top of the Untersberg is an absolute must. This massive mountain offers several trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. The summit provides breathtaking views over the Salzburger Land region, with its lush forests, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes.

Ramsau am Dachstein

Located just a few kilometers from Oberau, Ramsau am Dachstein is another picturesque village that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The village is home to the Watzmann Mountain range, which boasts some of the highest peaks in Central Europe. A visit here allows visitors to explore charming local shops and enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many cozy restaurants.

Seiersberg

Seiersberg, a small hill just outside Oberau, offers a unique perspective on the village and its surroundings. The hike up Seiersberg is relatively short but rewarding, providing panoramic views over the entire region. On a clear day, you can see the peaks of the Hohe Tauern National Park in the distance.

Bisamberg

Bisamberg is another scenic spot just outside Oberau. This hill provides visitors with sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hike to Bisamberg is moderate but rewarding, offering not only stunning views but also the chance to explore local flora and fauna.

Gaisberg

Gaisberg, located on the outskirts of Salzburg, offers some of the most picturesque views in the area. While it's a bit farther from Oberau than other options, the drive is worth it for those looking for expansive vistas over the Alps and beyond.

Watzmann Mountain

The Watzmann Mountain is a majestic peak that dominates the skyline around Ramsau am Dachstein. This mountain offers numerous hiking trails, with varying degrees of difficulty. For hikers seeking breathtaking views without the challenge of climbing to the summit, there are several scenic viewpoints along the way.

Stubaier Gletscher

Although located slightly outside Oberau, Stubaier Gletscher is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. This glacier offers unique experiences such as ice walks, snowshoeing, and skiing. The journey to the glacier is scenic in itself, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Hohe Tauern National Park

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Hohe Tauern National Park is an unparalleled destination. This vast park covers over 650 square miles and offers numerous trails for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The park's diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to glaciers, provide endless opportunities for exploration.

Peiting Lake

Just a short drive from Oberau, Peiting Lake is a serene oasis surrounded by lush greenery. This tranquil lake offers visitors the chance to relax or take part in various water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding forests provide a peaceful setting for picnics and nature walks.

Ramsau am Dachstein Waterfalls

The area around Ramsau am Dachstein is home to several stunning waterfalls, with the most famous being the Hoher Göll and Seehornwaterfall. These cascades offer visitors a refreshing break from the heat of summer days and provide breathtaking views that are worth the short hike.

Wurzen Nature Park

The Wurzen Nature Park, located just outside Oberau, is a hidden gem with numerous trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park's diverse landscape includes forests, meadows, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more secluded setting.

Alpe Reiterberg

Reiterberg is another scenic area that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. This alpine resort provides visitors with numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The summit offers panoramic vistas over the Salzburger Land region.

Mittersill Castle

While not in Oberau itself, Mittersill Castle is a must-visit for its architectural beauty and historical significance. This castle sits atop a hill and provides visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Guided tours offer insights into the castle's rich history and the lives of those who lived there.

Hohenwerfen Castle

Hohenwerfen Castle, located just outside Salzburg, is another iconic landmark worth visiting. This medieval fortress offers breathtaking views over the Wipptal Valley and provides visitors with a glimpse into Austria's rich historical heritage. Guided tours of the castle are available for those interested in learning more about its history.

Salzburger Land Landscape Park

The Salzburger Land Landscape Park is a protected area that covers vast tracts of land around Oberau, Ramsau am Dachstein, and other nearby villages. This park offers numerous trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts, as well as opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.

Stubaier Glacier

While not in Oberau itself, the Stubaier Glacier is a short drive away and offers visitors an opportunity to experience the unique ice landscapes of Central Europe. The glacier provides numerous trails for hikers, and guided tours are available for those seeking more information about its formation and history.

Grossglockner Panorama Route

The Grossglockner Panorama Route is a scenic drive that offers visitors stunning views of the highest mountain in Austria, the Grossglockner. This route provides breathtaking vistas over the surrounding valleys and mountains, making it a popular destination for photography enthusiasts.

Top 20 Places and Views in Oberau, Austria

1. Altenmarkt Square
2. Lake Zell
3. The Untersberg
4. Ramsau am Dachstein
5. Seiersberg
6. Bisamberg
7. Gaisberg
8. Watzmann Mountain
9. Stubaier Gletscher
10. Hohe Tauern National Park
11. Peiting Lake
12. Ramsau am Dachstein Waterfalls
13. Wurzen Nature Park
14. Alpe Reiterberg
15. Mittersill Castle
16. Hohenwerfen Castle
17. Salzburger Land Landscape Park
18. Stubaier Glacier
19. Grossglockner Panorama Route
20. Lake Zell from the Mountain Top