From the best football leagues to the most scenic driveways, Europe is a continent with various beautiful lakes and offerings. A trip to Europe will introduce you to some of the most beautiful lakes i.e. natural and man-made attractions in the world. However, it is Europe’s pristine and beautiful lakes that make it an ideal destination for summer vacation.
20 Must-Visit Lakes in Europe
If you’re longing for a peaceful holiday in the company of beauty, this list will introduce you to the twenty best lakes in Europe.
- Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Lake Geneva is a crescent-shaped lake located in the Alps. It is Switzerland’s largest water body and you can indulge in numerous activities ranging from boating to antique shopping in this stunning lake. Between June to September, the water is warm enough to let you engage in water sports and swimming.
- Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
If you are keen to visit old lakes, Lake Ohrid is the best lake. Being one of the oldest lakes in the world, the lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and the scenic St John church so you are sure to have a picturesque stay.
- Lake Como, Italy
One of the deepest and most beautiful lakes in Europe, Lake Como has been an attraction for several wealthy and royal visitors and merchants since the Roman age. Boasting renowned spas and picturesque villages, the lake’s shore is home to plenty of Hollywood stars.
- Lake Wastwater, Lake District, England
England’s Lake District is famous for accommodating the Lake Poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge. If you are a fan of literature, you will understand why these poets chose to live here because the place is just as scenic and impressive as it can get.
- Lake Bled, Slovenia
Sitting on the Julian Alps, Beautiful Lake Bled boasts a blend of blue and green water but the major attraction of the lake is the tiny island that rests at its center. The island has a medieval castle and a bell tower from the 16th century that gives you a majestic and pleasant view of the quiet waters. You can reach the castle via a traditional gondola.
- Lake Wolfgangsee, Austria
The charming Lake Wolfgangsee is located in a very scenic location and over the years, has been a magnetic attraction for several artists and poets for centuries which gives you enough reason why you should visit this lake.
- Lake Hallstatt (Hallstättersee), Austria
This lake sits against a dainty and quaint Alpine village after which it is named. It is Austria’s most stunning and striking water landscape dating back to the Ice Age. Owning a rich aquatic ecosystem, it is a lake often preferred by scuba divers. If you want to witness some magical winter wonderland, visiting this lake during winter is recommended.
- Loch Duich, Scotland
Scotland is renowned for lochs and some of the most beautiful lakes with stunning scenery but Loch Duich takes the crown because it is where the exquisite Eilean Donan Castle is situated and it is hauntingly beautiful.
- Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
This lake is also called Lake of the Four Cantons and is famous for its scenic essence. You can cruise through the lake in paddle steamers and engulf in the beauty of the stunning natural landscape surrounding the lake. From skating to antique shopping, cycling to musical events, the place has a lot to offer.
- Konigsee Lake, Germany
It is the deepest and also the cleanest lake in Germany. Due to its natural surroundings and purity, limited passenger ships, paddle boats, and rowing is permitted and are used for outdoor recreational activities.
- Lake Vyrnwy, Wales
If you want to visit a lake that can enhance the look of your Instagram profile, Lake Vyrnwy is it. The stunning scenery and the Gothic water tower surrounding it make the lake one of a kind and highly photogenic.
- Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Not satisfied by a single lake? Don’t worry, Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes has got your back as there are 16 beautiful lakes in the Plitvice National park and because sunlight penetrates from different angles, the lakes are known to change colors.
- Lake Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for its snowy landscape and Swiss chocolates but you should not miss out on Lake Zurich not just because of how visually appealing it looks but also because of the lovely atmosphere surrounding the lake.
- Lake Saimaa, Finland
It is Europe’s 4th largest lake. Resembling a watery labyrinth, the lake is one of the most scenic places in Finland. The lake also hosts a plethora of water sports and activities so you won’t be deprived of fun and entertainment amidst beauty.
- Lake Annecy, France
Amidst the company of sandy beaches and snow-capped peaks, Lake Annecy is not only France’s third-largest lake, but it is also one of the cleanest lakes in Europe. Because it is just 82 meters deep and is shallow compared to other European lakes, a light swimming session in the crystal blue waters is an apt way to enjoy your holiday.
- Hintersee Lake, Germany
Featuring stunning blue waters, gigantic peaks, and vintage forests, Hintersee Lake will charm you just as it has charmed plenty of artists and poets through the years. Apart from hiking and cycling, you can also indulge in a moment of bliss and tranquility on your boat in this splendid lake.
- Lake Garda, Italy
Italy might have become the center of attraction recently after winning the Euro 2020 Cup but Italy’s Lake Garda has been a lake of attraction for ages. From hiking to cycling around the historical ambiance surrounding the lake, it is the perfect place for your European vacation. It is certainly one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.
- Kerid Crater Lake, Iceland
Kerid Crater Lake, as the name suggests, is a volcanic crater lake boasting many surreal features like the stunning aquamarine shade of the water, the lunar-resembling structure of the lake, and the fact that it is a volcanic lake in itself makes the lake a must-visit.
- Lake Ladoga, Russia
Russia’s Lake Ladoga is one of the largest lakes in the world and the largest lake in Europe. Due to its vastness, you can engage in an extensive array of activities in this lake such as rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, and more. An estimated 700 islands surround the lake so be prepared to have a holiday of grandeur.
- Lakes of Killarney, Ireland
The Lakes of Killarney is located in Killarney National Park and consists of three lakes – Lough Leane, Muckross Lake (the deepest lake in Ireland), and Upper Lake. Each lake has a unique beauty and adventure to offer be it hiking or some island escape.
Final Thoughts
The list of places you can visit, the activities you can engage in, and the diverse cuisines you can indulge in Europe are endless but these beautiful lakes are often overlooked. Therefore, if you are planning a visit to Europe, do not miss out on these magical lakes.
