Gustav Mahler – forever linked to Lake Attersee

A source of inspiration

A blue lake surrounded by green hills, rolling forests and unspoilt nature, with the Höllengebirge mountains in the background. Especially in summer, the Attersee, with its crystal-clear waters, is a popular destination for holidaymakers from near and far, as well as a recreational area for locals. This idyllic area has also repeatedly attracted prominent summer visitors. One of them was Gustav Mahler – the Austrian composer and conductor came to Lake Attersee between 1893 and 1896 to work on his compositions.

Mahler and Steinbach am Attersee

For four summers, Gustav Mahler stayed at the Gasthof Föttinger in Steinbach to compose. Visitors can still marvel at the composer’s cottage, which was restored in 1985 and built at Mahler’s request. Follow in the footsteps of the famous composer, for whom the magnificent landscape around Lake Attersee served as a source of inspiration.

A cottage by the lake

As the noise-sensitive composer soon found the many hikers stopping at the inn too much to bear, he had a composing cottage built especially for himself right on the lakeshore. In this cottage, in complete tranquillity and furnished only with the bare essentials, he found the peace and seclusion he needed for his work. Inspired by the rippling waters of the lake, the trees rustling in the wind and the picturesque view, Mahler completed his 2nd and 3rd symphonies at Lake Attersee.

Gustav Mahler’s connection to Lake Attersee is clearly palpable. As he explained to a friend during a walk at the foot of the Höllengebirge: “You needn’t look any further; I’ve already composed it all away.”

Your relaxing holiday at Lake Attersee

You too can enjoy the stunning surroundings of Lake Attersee, just as Gustav Mahler once did. Exercise & fitness, walks, hikes, panoramic views from the forest observation tower, cycling, boating or sailing on the lake, swimming, diving… the summer activities available to you at Lake Attersee are endless. Nestled in the heart of this idyllic landscape lies the Wellnesshotel Winzer, whose team is already looking forward to ensuring you have a wonderful holiday.

written by Katharina