05.01.2025.
When I think of the perfect autumn trip in Austria, thereโs an image of the clear Alpine lake in my mind. With the mountains in golden notes and the special Austrian charm, everything starts to look as if itโs taken from a picture postcard. Thatโs exactly how I spent a wonderful day in Gmunden, lying about 1,5h north of Salzburg. Gmunden is a stunning day trip from Salzburg, even now in winter, allowing you to relax after skiing adventures in Zell am See.
You donโt need to have big plans here, just to be around the fresh air near the water. The autumn in Gmunden enriches the vibe of this pretty town. Hearing the whispering of leaves and the Sunโs reflections on the lake gave fantastic impressions. Everything seemed so slow and serene- a perfect Austrian town to discover!
When planning your journey to the charming Salzburg, donโt miss the other stunning day trips, such as the iconic Mondsee or the epic Wolfgangsee & its mountain view.
How to reach Gmunden from Salzburg
Itโs easy to reach Gmunden and perfect for a family day trip around Salzburg. If youโre travelling by train, the ride will take 1,5h.
Unfortunately, you cannot get a Day Ticket (which means you can go to any train) like Hallstatt or the pristine Kรถnigssee in Germany. Thatโs why the tickets are a bit pricier and you should buy it in advance. Changing in Attnang-Puchheim, the lines are often and comfortable.
By car, the ride is even more simple. You will need slightly more than one hour and you can park near the center, close to the lake promenade. Passing through the typical Austrian landscape filled with wavy hills and meadows, itโs such a picturesque ride.
Walking around the Lake Traunsee
The first thing upon arriving in Gmunden would be a relaxing walk by the promenade. Following the path near the water, you can admire the serene reflections of the mountains. In autumn delight that coloured the entire scenery in the golden notes, every step is a new discovery.
Seeing the colourful ceramic benches was such a thrill and perfect to take a break. You can also stop around several lovely places and enjoy the lake views, while your kids play on the swings. Donโt be lazy, choose your installation for a short training. Continue walking and admire the paintings at the skate zone.
About the Schloss Ort at the lake
All the way to the Schloss Ort, plenty of photo opportunities await. It will take you around 20-25 minutes to reach this lovely castle, floating on the lake.
Thereโs a wooden bridge toward the castle, made to absorb the wild nature around. Though I didnโt go inside, the fairy atmosphere is so vivid. Around the castle you can meet lots of locals and tourists, even with kids.
Itโs difficult to imagine Gmunden without this wonderful castle, staying on a small island for more than thousand years. First time being mentioned in 11. century, it was a residence of the aristocratic families, hunting castle and even an administrative office.
Today Schloss Ort is a fascinating blend of romance, history and quiet beauty of nature.
The castle interior is relatively small and the small chapell is the most attractive.
You can also visit a small Museum of nature and a coffee place with a terrace.
Coffee with a lake view
After the pleasant walk around the lake, itโs the perfect moment to relax with coffee and take in the lake view.
Youโll find most of the coffee places close to the Rathaus, while further on only one garden caffe near the castle.
Simply sit near the promenade and watch the water reflections. Itโs the moment to absorb the peaceful atmosphere, knowing that you spent such a pleasant day in nature.
Grรผnberg Cable Car & Adventure Trail- The Fun for the Whole Family
One of the most beautiful things that you can experience in Gmunden is taking the Grรผnberg cable car (Grรผnbergseilbahn). About 10 minutes walking from the Rathaus, youโll reach the cable car on the other side of the river.
Such a picturesque view awaits you during the ride and at the top of the Grรผnbergย mountain. I was hesitating to go being short on time, but itโs such a delicacy not to miss. The ride only takes 10 minutes so you will not lose a lot of time.
Grรผnberg Adventure Trail is a fantastic surprise at the top, giving your kids lots of smiles. There are plenty of activities at every station, from balancing the tree path to mini games about nature discoveries. The trail is not challenging, making it suitable for the small kids. Admiring the Traunsee views behind the treetops will take your breath away so allow yourself to pause a bit.
Hiking to Laudachsee, a hidden mountain gem
If you have a bit more time, I would recommend hiking to the beautiful lake, Laudachsee. From the Grรผnberg summit, follow the one-hour trail. Passing through the forest, the path is cozy and not too challenging, which makes it an excellent choice for kids.
As a reward, you will come to the idyllic mountain lake, lying in the embrace of forests and mountains. So peaceful and quiet, itโs ideal for a short picnic or a moment to listen to nature.
Laudachsee is that hidden gem of Gmunden, which many donโt have time to reach, but itโs worth every step.
Gmunden ceramics, symbol of the town
Itโs difficult to visit Gmunden without noticing the recognizable colourful patterns in the shops. Known by its ceramics, this is a traditional craft dating back many centuries.
Entering the few shops was more out of curiosity than to buy something. After all, it was almost impossible not to fall in love in their cups, plates, and small figures, painted with such gentle designs. Everything covers the Austrian charm and the sense of home.
If youโre looking for an authentic souvenir, a piece of Gmunden ceramics is an ideal reminder. Visiting the Ceramic Museum or Haus der Keramik is a fantastic opportunity to discover deeper this marvelous art.
Walking around the historical center- Rathausplatz and Marktplatz
Though you will see the Rathaus right upon arriving in Gmunden, itโs worth walking a bit up towards the Marktplatz. This ancient square will show the real Austrian character.
Rathaus and Marktplatz are surrounded by the colourful facades, floral windows and small shops.
The central gem of Gmunden is Rathaus, a city hall that is beautifully decorated with local ceramic tiles. With astonishing details, you will realize how ceramic production is an important part of this city.
You can stop in one of the coffee terraces to enjoy the cake and observe the city life. In the morning, you will see locals buying on the market and visitors on a relaxing walk. Everything shines with a friendly atmosphere.
Practical tips for the families
Arriving: with the train from Salzburg (around 1,5h) or by car in 1h;
Activities: Walking by the lake, visiting the castle Schloss Ort, Grunberg cable car and Adventure trail.
Breaks: On the promenade, there are several places to stop for a coffee, ice cream or a small pause.
Advice: if youโre going with the kids, plan the whole day as thereโs plenty to do and try.
The best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when nature is most vivid and crowds lesser because locals adore Traunsee during the summer.
Final thoughts
Gmunden is one of those places that will surprise you with its simplicity. There are no big monuments, but you can feel the soul, peace and nature resting.
If youโre searching for a day trip from Salzburg thatโs all about nature, this pretty town on Traunsee is a perfect choice. Particularly for outdoor families, Gmunden will be your delight.
PIN IT FOR LATER:
Leave a Reply