You don’t “stumble on” Piburger See lake by accident. A wooded ridge separates Piburg from the village of Oetz at the start of the Ötztal Valley. A massive rockslide, triggered in the last Ice Age, blocked the Ötztal Ache river back then, leading to the formation of the lake. While walking around the “Piburger”, as the locals affectionately call the lake, the last water lilies are in bloom, their petals an elegant white against the backdrop of green leaves, craving for the last few rays of autumnal sun. A few marsh marigolds enjoy a late second bloom on the shoreline, having taken root amongst the luxuriant evergreen sedges and reeds.
Experience
The road to Piburg branches off to the right just before the centre of Oetz. It takes around one hour to stroll around the lake from the pay and display car park in Piburg. Those with sportier ambitions can start the 4.5-hour (easy) walk in Oetz. Leaving from the post office car park, walk along the banks of the Ötztaler Ache river as far as the Wellerbrücke bridge, before heading uphill to Seehäusl and on to Seejöchl. From there one enjoys a splendid view of the lake and the surrounding 3,000m peaks, especially in the clear autumn air.
Sleep
Those wanting to stay a little longer (often the case in the Ötztal Valley) will find welcoming accommodation at the Gästehaus Braunegger in Piburg, the rustic Gasthof Stern in Oetz or at the Posthotel Kassl in Oetz.
Eat
An afternoon snack of freshly caught trout or a slice of cake can be savoured on the terrace of the restaurant next to the lake.
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