Silbersee
(Silver Lake)

The Silbersee (Silver Lake) is located in the east of Villach, directly on the Drau, and is one of the most popular bathing lakes in Carinthia. With an area of around 14.5 hectares, it offers plenty of space for families, sports enthusiasts and anyone who wants to spend a summer’s day by the water. There is a small, green island in the south-western part of the lake.

The area is accessible all year round and free of charge. In summer, the lake is ideal for swimming and relaxing, while in winter it turns into a natural ice rink when the conditions are right. Sports facilities, restaurants and walking trails complete the offer around the lake. It is therefore not only a popular destination for locals, but also for holidaymakers looking to stay in a hotel near Silbersee.

Bathing and swimming

The water of the Silbersee has been awarded top marks by the European Environment Agency for several years in a row. As a quarry pond with a shallow average depth, it warms up quickly. Water temperatures of around 22 degrees are often measured as early as June.

The lake is accessible from all sides and offers several bathing areas with shallow entrances into the water. Large sunbathing lawns on the shore offer plenty of space, and showers and toilets are available on site.

The Silbersee is suitable for a short dip as well as for longer swims.

Leisure activities around the Silbersee

Around the shore there are beach volleyball courts, table tennis tables, a bowling alley and a fitness facility, which was built on the initiative of the Villach Youth Council. Those who prefer to play tennis will find five outdoor courts right by the lake, where equipment can also be hired on site. Free WLAN is also available on the premises.

There are walking paths around the lake, which can also be extended to the nearby Magdalenensee or Drauschleife. In summer, regular events are held at the Silbersee, including an annual beach volleyball tournament.

Family-friendly bathing fun

At the Silbersee, bathing enthusiasts of all ages get their money’s worth. Jetties and a slide right by the water provide variety, and there are shady areas to relax on the shore. The extensive sunbathing lawns offer plenty of space, making the Silbersee a particularly family-friendly destination.

Shore at the Silbersee © Region Villach Tourismus GmbH | Adrian Hipp

Bathing with a dog

So that four-legged friends can also cool off on hot days, there is a separate dog area on the western shore of the Silbersee. The area is fenced in and bordered by hedges so that dogs can safely enter the water.

Dogs are not allowed to run free outside the dog zone.

Eating & drinking by the lake

The Silbersee Ranch is located directly on the banks of the Silbersee. It is a great place to rest and enjoy food and drinks. There are also snacks and ice cream for in between.

Arrival & Parking

The Silbersee is located in the east of Villach, around four kilometers from the city center. It can be reached by car in just a few minutes and there is a parking lot right by the lake.

From May 1 to September 30, parking costs three euros for up to three hours and six euros for the whole day, between 8 am and 6 pm. The first 45 minutes are free of charge.

If you are traveling by bike, it is best to follow the Drau cycle path, which runs right past the shore. The Silbersee can be reached by bus directly from Villach main station.

Ice skating in winter

The Silbersee is not only worth a visit in summer. In suitable weather conditions, the surface of the lake is transformed into a natural ice rink and is ideal for ice skating. Access is also free in winter.

Your accommodation for relaxing days at the Silbersee

The Boutique Hotel Goldenes Lamm is located in the heart of Villach’s old town, just four kilometers from the Silbersee. Whether by car, bike or bus – you can reach the lake quickly and easily from here.

After a long day of swimming, you can look forward to quiet rooms and suites, a rich breakfast buffet the next morning and the hotel’s own sauna.

Silbersee(Silver Lake)