Carinthia, or Kärnten, is a hidden gem for divers in Austria, boasting over 200 pristine lakes, many of which are of drinking water quality. This Austrian Riviera offers a unique scuba diving experience, especially in the summer, with its gin-clear waters and breathtaking alpine scenery. The lakes here provide a tranquil diving environment where visibility is exceptional, allowing divers to explore at leisure. With the sun shining on the southerly Lake Faaker See and the warmth of Lake Wörthersee, each dive promises a unique experience, whether you're exploring the underwater flora or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Diving in Carinthia is diverse, accommodating various diving styles, from shore dives in the peaceful shallows of Lake Klopeiner to more adventurous ice diving during the crisp winter months. The best time for diving is between May and September when the waters are comfortably warm, and the days are largely cloudless. Ossiacher See and Weissensee are popular choices, offering stunning underwater landscapes set against roaring mountain streams and majestic peaks. This region is perfect for those who seek both adventure and tranquility in a backdrop of natural beauty.
Lake Faakersee is a fantastic scuba diving site that guarantees an amazing dive experience.
Freibacher Stausee offers a whole variety of fish sheltering in the protection of the roots, from perch, brown trout and lake trout.
Experience Austria’s beautiful underwater life in Lake Wörthersee.
Also listed among the best dive sites in Austria, Lake Millstätter See’s water is crystal clear, and is even safe for drinking.
this amazing Austrian dive site has everything a scuba diver could ever wish for from its rich Austrian wildlife deep within the waters to a diverse flora.
Klopeiner See is arguably one of the warmest lakes, and, perhaps, the best dive site in Kärnten to enjoy scuba diving.
Carinthia, a picturesque region in southern Austria, offers several key freshwater dive sites that attract divers worldwide. Among these, Lake Wörthersee is a standout, known for its clear waters and vibrant underwater flora. Divers often enjoy shore dives here, exploring the lake's unique rock formations and plant life. Another popular spot is Lake Weissensee, famed for its pristine waters and diverse aquatic life, including perch and pike.
For those seeking more adventure, the Steinwender quarry provides a thrilling dive experience with its submerged platforms and steep walls. Cave diving enthusiasts can explore the fascinating underwater cave systems of the region, such as those found in Lake Millstätter See, which offer an exciting challenge with their intricate passages. Overall, Carinthia's diverse dive sites cater to various diving styles and promise unique underwater experiences for divers of all skill levels.
Carinthia offers diverse freshwater diving experiences throughout the year. In spring, water temperatures range from 8°C–12°C/46°F–54°F, with improving visibility as snowmelt subsides. However, divers should be cautious of swift currents and debris.
By summer, temperatures rise to 18°C–23°C/64°F–73°F, providing ideal conditions with clear visibility, making July to September the best months for diving. During winter, lakes can be ice-covered, with temperatures dropping to 2°C–4°C/36°F–39°F, limiting access but offering unique ice diving opportunities for experienced divers.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
