Parks, squares between historic houses and, above all, the Carinthian lakes are transformed into family-friendly ice skating rinks, curling rinks and ice hockey rinks in winter, where exciting matches are played.
As soon as a stable layer of ice forms, many Carinthian lakes turn into natural ice rinks. The feeling of gliding across mirror-smooth natural ice is one of the most impressive winter experiences away from the slopes in southern Austria.
Lake Weissensee – Europe's largest frozen natural ice surface – can be reached in around 40 minutes from Spittal an der Drau and is symbolic of this tradition. But even the smaller lakes offer quiet, almost private moments on the ice – perfect for families and leisure seekers.
When the temperatures drop and a stable layer of natural ice has formed, the following lakes in Carinthia are also open for ice skating:
After frosty nights, sparkling ice surfaces form here, which are extensive and accessible free of charge. The thickness of the ice is monitored locally – up-to-date information is available on the hotline +43 4246 2273. A tip for anyone who appreciates being close to nature.
Two lakes, ten kilometres apart, sharing the magic of winter. As soon as they are open, ice skaters, ice hockey players and curlers gather here. Free ice skating fun in the heart of Carinthia.
Winter starts earlier and lasts longer here. The ice is up to a metre thick, illuminated and atmospheric. A separate area is reserved for ice skating and curling – also ideal for evening sessions under floodlights in the Nock Mountains.
Centrally located in the town centre and surrounded by thermal heat: depending on the weather, the square near the sports arena offers perfect conditions and is also ideal for evening laps after a day of skiing in Bad Kleinkirchheim.
One plus point: the thermal baths are just a few steps away – ideal for a warming break.
When temperatures fluctuate, artificial ice rinks and the ice rink in Spittal ensure consistent conditions around Lake Millstatt. From late October to March, beginners and sports enthusiasts alike come here to skate.
The Carinthian Curling Association has over 11,000 members. The heart of the sport beats particularly strongly around Feldkirchen, where Bernhard Widmann has been producing high-quality ice sticks for professionals and amateur players for almost 30 years.
Winter evenings on natural ice rinks, tournaments in the villages and cosy meeting places even in the ice-free season give the sport its special atmosphere.
Seeboden am M. S. will be the centre of curling from 4 to 7 June 2026! Men's, women's, mixed, trio and duo teams from Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Slovenia and, of course, Austria will compete for the Seebodner Wappentrophäe trophy at the International Curling Days.
Ice skating is only recommended on approved ice surfaces. Please observe all notices, barriers and local ice reports. Entering the ice surfaces is at your own risk.
Approval depends on frost periods and ice thickness. Most municipalities and tourist offices publish local ice reports.
Many natural ice rinks are free of charge. Indoor ice rinks and artificial ice rinks usually have fixed admission prices.
