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Kitzbühel Schwarzsee

Just a stone’s throw from Kitzbühel lies the Schwarzsee: dark and shimmering, idyllic and offering the best views of the Tyrolean mountains. In summer, you can take a dip in the warm water, walk around the lake or simply relax on the shore. In winter, it gets quieter, but no less beautiful. The Schwarzsee near Kitzbühel is one of those places where you don’t really need a plan. Just a little time.

A lake with trees and mountains in the background.
Kitzbühel Schwarzsee

At a glance.

Location: between Kitzbühel and Reith bei Kitzbühel, around 2 km from the centre of Kitzbühel

A walk all the way round: The circular walk around the lake is about 2.5 kilometres long. It’s an easy walk with some pretty good views.

Water temperature: One of the warmest mountain lakes in Tyrol, reaching up to around 27 °C in summer.

Black? Not quite: Schwarzsee owes its name to its dark, peaty water.

HENRI’s tip: Pack a picnic, lose track of time and simply stay a bit longer.

Kitzbühel Schwarzsee

Schwarzsee is great whatever the season.

A woman on a paddleboard on Schwarzsee lake near Kitzbühel.

Schwarzsee in summer.

A misty lake with mountains in the background

Schwarzsee in winter.

Tours in Kitzbühel and Schwarzsee

A round of Schwarzsee, please.

Schwarzsee, with trees and mountains in the background.

The quick loop: A walk round the lake is only about 2.5 km long.

Through the old town: From the HENRI Hotel, you can combine a walk around Schwarzsee with a stroll through Kitzbühel’s old town. This will take you a total of around 8 km.

Higher up: Starting from a bathing spot on Schwarzsee, you’ll walk the Seidlalm circular route from Münichau Castle. A moderate hike of around 10.5 km, which requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness.

A group of buildings with trees and mountains in the background.A bed with pillows and a wardrobe in a room.A woman in a swimming pool.

The best starting point for Schwarzsee near Kitzbühel.

Three architectural styles: Belle Époque at Haus Kaiser, mid-century at Haus Streif, Alpine modernism at Haus Ache

Central location: a 10-minute walk to the town centre, close to the mountain railways

An afternoon Tyrolean snack – because after a day at the lake, your appetite knows no patience

Home kitchen and lounge area for breakfast, relaxing and spending time

HENRI Spa, featuring an indoor pool, sauna and terrace overlooking the River Ache

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the 
Kitzbühel Schwarzsee

What makes Schwarzsee so special?

Schwarzsee is one of the warmest mountain lakes in Tyrol and is therefore perfect for swimming in summer. There are lovely walking and hiking trails all around Kitzbühel’s Schwarzsee, and the panoramic views are an added bonus. What’s particularly lovely is that, despite its proximity to Kitzbühel, it quickly feels like a ‘quick getaway’ here.

Can you go for a swim in Schwarzsee?

Absolutely! Schwarzsee is actually one of the warmest mountain lakes in Tyrol and reaches pleasant swimming temperatures in summer. So pack your swimming trunks, grab a towel and jump in.

How long does it take to walk round Schwarzsee?

You can do it at a leisurely pace in about 45 minutes. The walk is around 2.5 kilometres long, pleasant to walk and offers views of the lake and the mountains. If you stop along the way to look around or simply sit down for a bit, it will of course take longer. And that’s just as well.

Is Schwarzsee a good place for walking?

Yes, absolutely. The route around Schwarzsee gets off to a very relaxed start, whether you opt for a leisurely stroll right by the water’s edge or head further into the Kitzbühel mountains. There’s something for everyone, from gentle walks to longer hikes. And you get stunning views of the lake and the mountains thrown in for free along the way.

What is the best time of year to visit Schwarzsee?

It depends on what you fancy. In summer, it’s time to put on your swimming trunks and jump in the water; in autumn, the surroundings become a marvellous riot of colour; and in winter, the snow and mountain panoramas provide incredible picture-postcard views. In short: Schwarzsee is perfect at any time of year.

Where can I stay in Kitzbühel?

The best place to stay is at HENRI. The HENRI Hotel Kitzbühel is centrally located on the banks of the Kitzbüheler Ache, right next to the railway station and just a short walk from the town centre and the mountain railways. Inside, Tyrolean history, mid-century charm and modern design come together – plus in-house cuisine, a lounge area and a spa to unwind in afterwards. In short: the perfect base for exploring Kitzbühel.

Discover the HENRI Hotel Kitzbühel