Poertschach am Woerthersee sits on the northern shore of Carinthia’s warmest lake, midway between Klagenfurt and Velden. Brahms composed his Second Symphony here during three summers in the late 1870s, and the relaxed, flower-lined atmosphere that drew him is still recognizable in the peninsula park and lakeside promenade. The lake reaches 26-28°C in summer, making swimming a serious activity rather than a gesture. Trains from Klagenfurt take about 15 minutes. The atmosphere is quieter and more traditional than Velden, with hotels ranging from classic lake resort to mid-range options. For travelers who want Woerthersee without the social scene at Velden, Poertschach is the right choice.
village
Poertschach am Woerthersee
Johannes Brahms spent three summers at Poertschach between 1877 and 1879 and composed his Second Symphony here, later calling it his "pastoral" work. The lake view and the slower pace of this mid-shore resort had an obvious effect.