Swimming with a mountain view? The best spots for water sports enthusiasts in Alpine Lakes and Swimming Pools in Innsbruck

A long time ago, creatures we eventually evolved from exchanged the water for land, and now we, modern humans and technological beings can’t wait to jump back in. Once again, Innsbruck delivers when it comes to scratching that nature itch, and it really hits the spot. Get into the almost-weightless state in Lake Achen, Lake Piburg, or, if you prefer, one of the swimming pools available in this part of the Alps. Mountain Moments gives you all the information you need to join us, so do just that.

Swimming is a classic outdoor sport and is experiencing a resurgence with the triathlon trend. The possibilities in the mountains are geographically limited, so some places stand out. Splashing in the water or working on your chest pull: it’s certainly even better with a mountain view! It is a unique experience to play with the elements in water that is usually relatively cold and fresh, and to enjoy the view of the mountains in the peace and quiet afterwards. 

In addition to the municipal swimming pools, two lakes are particularly interesting for swimmers and bathing fans alike: Lake Achen, often called the “Tyrolean Fjord” because of its shape, and the rather small but romantically situated Lake Piburg in the Ötztal.

Note: In high summer, swimming is also possible in most mountain lakes outside the national parks. Since the water in high alpine locations is rarely warmer than 10°C and the small mountain lakes have a very sensitive ecosystem, we advise against it.

Best swimming locations near Innsbruck presented on a map – which one will you visit?

Achensee – cooling off in the Tyrolean fjord

From above – for example during a photo tour on the Bärenkopf – the Achensee looks like a classic fjord. It winds between the steep Karwendel peaks and those of the Rofan. It is the largest Tyrolean lake, about 10 kilometers long and can be reached from Innsbruck in about 40-80 minutes.

Sailing, windsurfing, splashing and swimming are excellent here on hot summer days. Swimming is free and pleasantly cool in the summer heat. The parking situation on sunny weekends, however, is quite cramped and often not favorable. 

Lake Piburg – bathing surrounded by idyllic mountain forest

Lake Piburg in Oetz is nestled in an idyllic mountain forest. The sunbathing areas for sun worshippers are very limited outside the official bathing area, but those who are creative will quickly find a hidden spot between the trees (don’t forget a hammock). The natural bathing lake in the front Ötztal is considered a natural landmark of the village of Oetz.

Mountain Moments Photo Workshops provide Photo Tours for everybody, Alpine Experience for beginners and intermediate-level photographers with 3 to 6-hour routes, as well as Summit Experience for more advanced photographers and hikers. We have private workshops and group classes.

Swimming pools in Innsbruck

Innsbruck has four municipal swimming pools and a bathing lake. The Höttinger Au indoor pool is best for athletic swimmers. The water temperature is low, so if you don’t exercise here, you will quickly freeze. The Amraser Straße indoor pool is a time-honored bath in the city center. The ceilings are high, as are the water temperatures. For gentle swimming and coming to rest, this is the place to be. The sauna has a particularly nice terrace view.

The indoor family pool is located in the Olympic Village and is the best choice for families with children. In summer, the outdoor swimming pool Tivoli attracts the whole population. It is located in the middle of the city and in summer it is a sought-after sunbathing area, fun pool with sports facilities, a 10m diving tower and a 50m competition pool. In winter it is closed.

The best Summer Adventures in and around Innsbruck – Hiking, Mountainbiking, Trekking, Climbing and more

Fancy more Summer Adventures in Tyrol and around Innsbruck? We got you covered! The best outdoor sports activities for Summer Enthusiasts as eBook: Innsbruck Summer Outdoor Guide.

Here we have compiled the most beautiful locations and photo opportunities. 30 activities with numerous photo spots are selected and described in such a way that you can easily experience these wonderful adventures around Innsbruck for yourself – including track infos, and maps and all other information that you need.

You can take a closer look at the Innsbruck travel guide ebook here – why not share it with your adventure partner?