Mountain pools offer icy relief from Salzburg heat

ORF reports that rock pools carved by mountain streams in the Salzkammergut are offering relief from the heat, with water temperatures ranging from about eight degrees Celsius near the springs to around 16 degrees farther downstream.

The streams have cut countless pools into the rock of the Northern Limestone Alps. Waterfalls and cascades create natural whirlpool-like bathing spots, ranging in size from a bathtub to a swimming pool.

Bathing bans must be checked and respected. The rocks are slippery, currents can be strong, and swimmers should cool down gradually rather than entering the water while overheated. The depth must be checked before jumping; headfirst dives are life-threatening and prohibited. Campfires are also banned.

The pools are shared with fish and amphibians. Those seeking even colder water can go higher, to mountain lakes near the glaciers, which remain icy even when temperatures in the valleys reach 35 degrees.