Stand Up Paddle in Carinthia, Austria – Best Spots & Local Tips

Carinthia’s landscape is defined by lakes, and many of them are tailor-made for stand up paddling. Among the most iconic is Lake Weissensee, known for its turquoise water and minimal motorboat traffic. Located over 900 meters above sea level, it’s one of the highest and cleanest bathing lakes in the Alps, ideal for long SUP tours, nature observation, and peaceful solitude. Lake Millstatt, near Spittal an der Drau, is another top SUP destination, offering warm waters, scenic bays, and SUP rental stations right on the shore. Early mornings and late afternoons here are perfect for calm, mirror-like conditions and unbeatable reflections.\n\nLake Wörthersee, Carinthia’s most famous lake, is a vibrant place to paddle, especially for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. The southern shore near Velden is lined with stylish resorts and cafes, while quieter areas near Pörtschach or Maria Wörth offer a more tranquil setting. The lake’s size makes it suitable for extended paddle sessions, while SUP yoga classes and guided sunset tours are available in summer.\n\nLake Ossiach, set beneath the Gerlitzen Alps, is popular for its combination of mountain scenery and family-friendly infrastructure. Several beaches have direct SUP access, and shallow areas are great for beginners and children. On hot days, paddlers can combine their session with a swim or lakeside picnic.\n\nIn addition to these main lakes, Carinthia has dozens of smaller, lesser-known spots perfect for paddleboarding. Lakes such as Faaker See, Pressegger See, and Turracher See offer quiet, pristine environments and are often less crowded even in peak season. Most are surrounded by forested hills, with easy access to hiking trails or lakeside saunas — ideal for a full day of nature and wellness.\n\nWhat sets Carinthia apart is not only the beauty of its lakes but also the quality of the water. Many are certified for drinking water standards and are free of motorized traffic in large sections, making them especially safe and enjoyable for stand up paddling. Launch points are often free or low-cost, and several accommodations — including hotels, B&Bs, and campsites — offer direct lake access and SUP board rentals.\n\nSUP services in Carinthia are well-developed. You’ll find rental centers, schools, and guided tours in most of the major lakeside towns. Some places offer beginner lessons, technique workshops, or sunrise/sunset sessions complete with photo packages. For more adventurous paddlers, full-day lake crossings or multi-stop paddle itineraries can be arranged.\n\nThe best season for stand up paddling is late May through early September, when water temperatures are warmest and most services are available. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best paddling conditions — calm, flat water with light winds and beautiful golden light.\n\nWhether you’re looking for serenity, fitness, or fun, Carinthia’s lakes offer an unmatched variety of SUP opportunities in a safe and spectacular setting. It’s a region where you can truly paddle at your own pace, surrounded by clean nature and friendly alpine hospitality.

Top Ways to Find Certified Guides in Carinthia for stand up paddle: Crion.org to book SUP instructors and guided tours across Weissensee, Wörthersee, and Millstatt. SUP schools and fitness centers offering classes, technique coaching, and yoga sessions. Beachfront hotels and campsites with in-house instructors and board rental. Tourist info centers with contacts for certified SUP guides and local events. Outdoor clubs organizing group paddles, fitness challenges, and eco-friendly SUP clean-up tours.

Best Places to Rent & Buy Stand Up Paddle Equipment in Carinthia: SUP rental centers on Lake Weissensee, Wörthersee, Millstatt, and Ossiach offering hourly and day packages. Watersport shops in Villach and Spittal selling boards, paddles, and accessories. Fitness clubs and lakeside hotels with rental gear for guests. Online suppliers delivering inflatable SUPs to hotels or vacation homes. Campsites with direct lake access and free paddleboard use for visitors.