Contemplative places at Lake Achensee
Advent used to be the “quietest time of the year”, but today the run-up to Christmas is a stressful and hectic time for many people. Once again, Lake Achensee becomes a haven of tranquility. Looking for some peace and quiet to escape the pre-Christmas rush? Here are our tips for the best places to embrace the spirit of Christmas.
In the Advent season, Steinberg am Rofan attracts visitors with its unique romantic atmosphere: In December, the small village, which has become a member of Tirol’s “Mountaineering Villages” in 2021, transforms into a real-life Advent calendar. Each day, a lovingly decorated house be illuminated, and the calendar will then grow day by day until 24 December, with another house added every day.
Did you know that the most famous Christmas carol was spread from Tirol? The Tirolean national singer Ludwig Rainer and the “Rainer singers” carried "Silent Night! Holy Night!" into the world. Ludwig Rainer lived in Achenkirch, where he had the beautiful neo-Gothic Seehofkapelle chapel built. During the Christmas season, Christmas trees decorated with sparkling lights stand in front of the chapel – a picture postcard idyll. Guided tours can be booked all year round.
Walking is an excellent way to slow down and find your inner self. How about a short, meditative walk from Maurach up to the Häusererbühel chapel? See the traditional nativity scene during the Christmas season and enjoy gorgeous views of Lake Achensee. On Friday, 19 December 2025, at 17.00, the event "Contemplative Christmas Spirit" will take place at the Häusererbühel Chapel.
The Wiesing Advent market brings festive cheer to the village square on 29 November and 13 December 2025. Visitors can savour local delicacies, enjoy freshly baked bread, and explore regional exhibitors. Guests can roast bread on a stick over an open fire, children can decorate gingerbread, and live music and traditional performances add to the festive charm. On 29 November, the children’s Perchten group from the Guggala Pass Wiesing will perform, while on 13 December, the Wiesing village band will fill the market with festive tunes and Christmas spirit.
Each year, the members of the shooting club put up a twinkling Christmas tree and a live-size nativity scene. On Advent Saturdays, there will be a small beverage service from 17.00. On 24 December at 17.00, the youth shooting club will place Baby Jesus on the manger.
The lead-up to Christmas is a truly magical time at Tirol's largest lake. We turn inward and become more mindful, and the stress of everyday life melts away. Are you longing for contemplative, reflective moments? Our Christmas markets are just perfect to embrace the festive spirit.
