Lakes that are perfect for sports both on and under the water; lakes with water so fresh you could even drink from them. Leisurely bathing spots for cooling off after a strenuous mountain tour, or for diving into some watery fun with the kids. Not to mention the white waters and thundering rivers where adventure is close at hand. Upper Austria has many a surprise in store for water sports enthusiasts.

Hot water from deep springs feeds the thermal spas of Upper Austria. In addition to its healing effect, it also provides a feeling of profound relaxation and peace.

When you think of lakes, you must have the Salzkammergut in mind. There are exactly 76 lakes nestled here in a picturesque mountain landscape. Some are very well known and can't be missed due to their sheer size; others are small and often hidden in remote mountain valleys. Attersee, the biggest inland lake in Austria, is one of the most popular freshwater diving spots. Traunsee is a paradise for sailors and surfers. The turquoise Wolfgangsee paints a divine picture, while Mondsee is one of the warmest bathing lakes in the region. If you're looking for somewhere to go kiteboarding, water skiing or wakeboarding, the lakes of the Salzkammergut are all top destinations.

The holiday region of Pyhrn-Priel and the Kalkalpen National Park are, however, the first choice for true adventure. Here, the elemental force of water has carved out valleys through the limestone of the mountains. Numerous providers have thus specialised in taking adventurous souls onto the region's wild waters by kayak, canoe or rafting boat.

Waterbodies like the Danube, Traunsee or Irrsee are perfect for rowing - whether in a regatta, on a rowing tour or simply having a go.

One convincing argument in favour of getting into rowing: it is one of the best sports in the world for fitness.

In the next two years, the very best of rowing will be showcased in Upper Austria, with the sport's elite coming together in Linz-Ottensheim in both 2018 and 2019.

2018: The 2018 World Rowing Cup will be held from 22 to 24 June in Linz-Ottensheim. The World Cup is considered the prelude to the World Rowing Championships in 2019.

This event will see 600 athletes from 40 nations take to their oars and be cheered over the finish line by their supporters. 2019: The 2019 World Rowing Championships in Linz-Ottensheim from 25 August to 1 September 2019 will mark the first time that a World Championships in an Olympic summer event has been hosted by Upper Austria. The sportsmen and women will be battling it out not only for Championship medals, but also for the chance to compete in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Don't miss the opportunity to witness Upper Austria's moment as the international hotspot of the rowing scene!

Lakes with crystal-clear, clean water in idyllic locations offer the promise of adventure and romantic sunsets.

Murmuring streams and rivers invite you to dip your toes.

And thermal baths that are warming in winter and cooling in summer - welcome to the watery oases of Upper Austria.