Vernagt Lake

The sunken village

However, this alpine lake is not a natural creation - it was artificially created in the 1950s as a reservoir and has a rich history. Deep in its waters, it holds a secret - a sunken village. When the 65-meter high dam was built, several farms of the village of Vernagt sank into the rising waters. The church tower also fell victim to the floods, and when the water level is low today, you may even be able to see its tip sticking out of the lake.

That dam is a popular starting point for hikers, who will find a variety of wonderful hiking trails here. A classic option is to take a loop around the lake - along forest paths and over the suspension bridge, where you cross the Schnalser Bach. On your way, you can carefully watch the fishermen at work as they pull magnificent trout and pikes from the water.
But that's not all - the hiking area also extends to the neighboring Kurzras, where you can admire ancient farms that have been around for several hundred years. Also not too far away is a place that gained worldwide fame when a sensational discovery was made in the early 1990s, which made archaeologists' hearts race. The place is called Tisenjoch. And the discovery is the Iceman from Tisenjoch - better known as the Ötzi Glacier Mummy. An archaeological hiking trail will take you to the Similaunhütte at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters and then a bit further to the site of the ice-cold guy.

Due to the proximity to the glaciers, it can be assumed that the water temperatures are more likely to make you shiver even in summer. But you can easily leave your bikini and swimming trunks at home, because swimming and bathing are not allowed in the Vernagtsee.

One highlight of the region takes place in early autumn, when the sheep return from their summer pastures. The centuries-old tradition of the shepherds has lost none of its fascination today. Sheep, shepherds, and their dogs cover more than 40 kilometers in two days and are then welcomed back to the village with a joyful festival. Don't miss this!