Carinthia (Kaernten)

Carinthia is the southernmost Austrian state and sharing its borders with Italy and Slovenia.  Because of its location, south of the main alpine region, spring comes earlier and autumn lasts longer. Carinthia is a region with several lakes and many mountains and pleases tourists with relaxed swimming in warm lakes surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery. It has attractive winter sport resorts also, such as Kanzelhoehe, which are famous for its perfect snow and many hours of sunshine. The Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria.

But the highlight of Carinthia and worth a tour is Lake Woerthersee, which is famous all over Europe. Conveniently located just a short drive from Klagenfurt, the lakes shaded woodland shoreline contrasts with the sunny lakeside promenade with its well-tended flower beds and beautiful roses. The 17 km (11 miles) long Woerthersee reaches temperatures of up to 26°C and offers a wide range of water sports that are possible from May until October. In Velden, Poertschach or Klagenfurt you can swim, sail, water ski, play tennis or golf to your heart's content. The area also boasts of many impressive castles! One of the many that are open to the public is Hochosterwitz castle which can easily be reached from Klagenfurt. Of historic interest is also the Cathedral of Gurk nearby.

The popular resort of Poertschach on the sunny northern shores of Lake Woerthersee is conveniently located just 20 minutes' drive from Klagenfurt and is ideally situated for exploring the region, either with or without a car. With its own mainline train station and pleasure boat connections to other towns and villages on the lake, it is well served by public transport. It is a picturesque lake resort with first class hotels and lots of events during summer.

The largest and busiest place on the Wörther See is Velden. It is Carinthia's most fashionable resort with its villas and hotels encircling the western end of the lake. Tour the Schubertpark and the promenade along the lake which are ideal for walks. Northeast of Velden, beyond the highway in the district of Goeriach, rises the Karawankenblick on 660 meters (2,165ft), a lookout point with a magnificent view over the lake and on to the rugged Karawanken range in the south.