Description of the attraction
The Rifflsee is the largest lake in the Ötztal Alps. Created by the descent of a glacier, it is located in the mountains above the Pitztal valley. From the north and west, the lake is bounded by rocky peaks of the Kaunergrath massif. In sunny and warm weather, the lake is fed by melt water from the Seekarlesferner, Lecherferner and Riffleferner glaciers.
Riffle Lake was known as early as 1500. He is mentioned in a book on fishing. They say that the Emperor Maximilian himself loved to fish here. The name Riffle was given to the lake by the cartographer Peter Anich (1723-1766), while the topographer Jacob Staffler called it Taskhahsee in 1839.
Riffle Lake can be reached by the Rifflebahn Cable Car, which connects its shore to the St. Leonard Resort. From the same town, you can climb to the lake in about 2 hours along a steep path.
In the 70s of the last century, a ski resort was built on the shores of Lake Riffle. In 1994, this resort was acquired by the owners of the Pitztal Glacier.
All the surroundings of Lake Riffle have long been explored. Local residents, employees of tourist offices, have developed interesting tourist routes covering the most picturesque corners with a gorgeous view of the Pitztal valley stretching below. Most of the hikes start at 2300 meters, where a lift takes everyone. There is also a restaurant "Sunna Alm" with an open veranda, where you can relax and gain strength before the hike. Walking trails do not require serious preparation. You can go hiking around Riffle Lake even with small children who do not leave their strollers.
