Lake Durnholz: a fairytale mountain lake in the Sarntal Valley
Lake Durnholz is idyllically nestled in a quiet high valley in the Sarntal Alps and boasts clear waters, gentle meadow slopes and a breathtaking mountain backdrop. The car-free character of the surroundings, the easy accessibility and the proximity to unspoilt nature make it a real insider tip for those seeking peace and quiet and nature lovers.
Numbers & facts
Lake Durnholz is located at the end of Durnholz Valley and is surrounded by several idyllic mountain farms.
Tourismusverein Sarntal - E. Weger- Location: Sarntal, Durnholz district
- Altitude: approx. 1,545 metres above sea level
- Size: approx. 900 m long, up to 350 m wide
- Maximum depth: approx. 13 m
- Origin: Presumably due to a landslide
- Water quality: Clear and low in nutrients - home to trout
- Inflow & outflow: Großalmbach and Seebach; outflow via Durnholzer Bach, which flows into Talfer river
- Special feature: Car-free zone at the lake, easy circular trail (approx. 1 hour)
- Italian name: Lago di Valdurna
Natural idyll without traffic - a place of tranquillity
What makes Lake Durnholz special is its natural tranquillity. No through traffic, no hotel castles, no hustle and bustle – just the lapping of the water and the chirping of the birds. The car-free zone around the lake creates ideal conditions for peaceful walks, relaxed family outings and conscious observation of nature. Those who simply want to switch off will find the perfect setting here.
A valley with character - the original Durnholz
Durnholz is a small hamlet with traditional farmhouses, a pretty church with frescoes and plenty of authentic charm. The village conveys an impression of how life in the South Tyrolean mountains used to be – original, simple, slowed down. The combination of nature and living tradition gives the valley a very special atmosphere
Interesting to know: According to a South Tyrolean legend, a farmer from Durnholz disregarded the end-of-work bell and spoke mockingly, even if the lake should swallow up his property. The next morning, his house and farm were indeed submerged in the lake.
Activities around the lake
In the winter months, the Sarntal Valley is a popular holiday destination for active travellers, with dreamlike ski tours, snowshoe hikes and much more.
Tourismusverein Sarntal - Eduard WegerWalk around Lake Durnholz
A well-maintained, approximately 3 km long path leads around the lake - barrier-free, well signposted and can be completed in around an hour. Also ideal for off-road pushchairs.
Fishing fun
Lake Durnholz is almost triangular in shape. Its two main tributaries are the Großalmbach and the Seebach. The outflow is via the Durnholzer Bach. If you have a fishing licence and buy a day ticket from the Hotel Fischerwirt, you may be lucky enough to catch a magnificent trout while fishing in summer.
Hiking with a view
From an easy walk around the lake to a family-friendly hike to the Seeb Alm and a challenging mountain tour to the 2,741 m Jakobsspitze, hiking trails for every taste start from Lake Durnholz. Mountain bikers can also choose from a variety of routes: for example, a circular tour from Sarnthein to the lake and back or a challenging day tour starting and finishing in Feldthurns in the Eisacktal Valley.
Winter idyll & ice skating
In winter, ski tourers and snowshoe hikers can enjoy a variety of routes that lead to the panoramic peaks and ridges above the lake. As soon as the ice cover is thick enough in winter, Lake Durnholz is transformed into a beautiful ice skating rink.
Getting there
Lake Durnholz can be reached from Bozen or, in summer, via the Penser Joch Pass. Like the Sarntal Valley as a whole, it impresses with its unspoilt nature and tranquillity. Access directly to the lake and the village of Durnholz, which belongs to the municipality of Sarntal, is only permitted to local residents. There is a paid car park about 300 m from the lake. Travelling by public transport is possible to Sarnthein, from there seasonal buses continue to Durnholz.
Other places in the surrounding area
- Sarnthein: Main town of the Sarntal Valley with shops, restaurants and cultural offerings
- Reinswald: winter sports and hiking area with cable car
- Bozen: South Tyrol's capital with historic city centre, museums and arcades
- Latzfonser Kreuz: popular hiking destination with pilgrimage church in the Sarntal Alps
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to swim in Lake Durnholz?
Officially the lake is not a bathing lake, but on warm summer days you can always see brave swimmers – however, the water remains very cool.
How long does the walk around the lake take?
The circular route is around 3 kilometres long and takes around an hour – ideal for families and pleasure-seekers, with dreamlike views of the Sarntal Alps.
Are there places to stop for refreshments in Durnholz?
Yes, there is an inn right in the village that offers typical South Tyrolean cuisine and homemade specialities.
Images
Lake Durnholz is located at the end of Durnholz Valley and is surrounded by several idyllic mountain farms.
Tourismusverein Sarntal - E. Weger
