Turracher See

An Alpine lake at 1,763 meters on the Turracher Hoehe pass between Styria and Carinthia, sitting within the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve. The lake is surrounded by ancient stone pine (Zirbe) forests, which are among the oldest in the Alps. The Nockberge mountains here are unusually rounded, creating a gentle Alpine landscape.

The Turracher See sits at 1,763 meters on the pass between Styria and Carinthia in the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve, where the mountains are unusual: rounded, smooth, walkable rather than sharp and demanding. The lake is surrounded by ancient stone pine forests, some of the oldest in the Alps, and the three-lake hike connecting Turracher See to two neighboring lakes is the standard summer excursion. Swimming is possible despite the altitude in warm summers. In winter the Turracher Hoehe ski area operates above the lake. The Nockalmstrasse panoramic road starts nearby and is one of the most scenic toll roads in Austria. The pass is accessible by car from both Carinthia and Styria.