Lake Obersee

In past times the famous Lake Anterselva in the eponymous valley was also known as Lake Untersee. Lake Obersee is situated 350 metres higher on the passo Stalle in Austria. This saddle between South Tyrol in Italy and East Tyrol in Austria separates the Vedrette di Ries range and the Monti Villgraten.

The road leading up to passo Stalle and descending into the Defereggental in East Tyrol is a highly sought-after destination for passionate motorcyclists. Along the lakeshores you can undertake relaxing walks or demanding alpine tours with a lunch break at the Obersee hut by the lakeside.

Recreational fishing was practised already more than 1,000 years ago. Today, the 12.9 hectare large lake is a natural habitat for several fish species, including minnows, Arctic chars and trouts. In 1999, a more than 1,000-year old boat was found at these high altitudes, making it the highest boat ever found in Europe. The relic is now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum Defereggen. Every year the lake hosts the highest dragon boat race in the world.