Nature’s wonders are spread all over the world. Wherever you may live, I bet there are few unique wonders nearby. This is an article about a beautiful place in central Europe. We all admire the scenery around the Alps, but beneath this massive mountain range, there is a small lake that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Which one of the wonder is it and what’s so special about it?
It is called Grüner See or the Green Lake. The lake is located in Styria, Austria in a resort village named Tragöß and it is surrounded by the massive Hochschwab Mountains and the green forests. Tragöß is a municipality in the district of Bruck-Mürzzuschlag and it has a long history of large scales migrations. Ancient Celts, Romans, Slavs, Bavarians and Franks inhabited Tragöß throughout the centuries. As settlers, they’ve experienced all the beauty of the waters, valleys and fertile ground that was offered to them by the magnificent nature. Today, the accent is being put mainly on the Green Lake.
Its name originates from its crystal clear emerald-green water thatonly appears as green from the submerged meadow vegetation and the reflection of the surrounding forest. Embedded in a middle of a country park its waters are 1 meters deep during the winter. However, the Green Lake’s maximum depth is reached from mid-May to June when it gets up to 12 meters. This is the period when it looks the most beautiful but in July the water begins to recede again. This happens every year because the Green Lake gets its waters from the snowmelt from the mountains. In spring when the basin of the lake is full, the water temperature reaches out to 7 °C so only the bravest gets to swim in it.
The variety of flora and fauna are in accordance to the environment: lots of snails, small crabs,different species of trout and aquatic insects, trees, bushes and flowers that grow around the lake as much as on the lake bed. After the spring inflow the lake becomes literally an underwater park. This is the main reason the Green Lake is so popular among the divers. They can observe the green meadows, take a ‘rest’ on the bench situated on the lake bed or cross the bridge and all these activities are donewhile diving along the submerged trails. You’ll have a feeling you are in a middle of a glass world. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Europe for underwater photography. It’s like talking a ‘walk’around a perfectly set park, except this one is all underwater. However, divers must already have a diving license. But if you don’t own one, you can enjoy the hiking and the contemplation of nature. If you are an adrenaline fan you’ll also have the chance to explore the biking trails and go for a fast downhill.
Regarding the accommodation, many guest cottages, inns and hotels are welcoming visitors throughout the year. You can ski around the several ski resorts, cross-country skiing is also available and wait for this – there is an offer for dog sledding as well. All these activities, the tiny lake and the stunning and picturesque natural scenery make the little town of Tragöß one of the most popular holiday destinations in the region. It’s often called the green heart of Austria. If you’re not impressed yet, then you should wander the meadows looking for the Edelweiss flower, the symbol of noble purity. But you’ll be reminded to look but don’t touch. At the end you can visit the Heritage Museum if you would like to learn something more about the history of Tragöß.
Anyway, I’ve chosen my next destination for the exquisite bonding with nature. I should hurry, as the lake is only there for few months each year. I can’t wait to see some of the Europe’s best scenery. Three things are a must on your packing list: sturdy boots, backpacks and a really good camera.