7 reasons for the Achensee Run
The Achensee Run, Austria’s most beautiful panoramic run, is truly a highlight for running enthusiasts. Every year in September, the international running scene is drawn to Pertisau. Runners have to conquer 23.2 kilometres and 171 metres of elevation gain as they circumnavigate Tirol's largest lake accompanied by breathtaking panoramic views. We have rounded up 7 reasons why this running event is so special.
The Achensee Run starts in Pertisau, from where the route runs on asphalt and gravel paths towards Maurach. And here it comes, the first WOW moment: The turquoise waters of the shallowest part of the lake, framed by reeds and set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop, provide a touch of the Caribbean between kilometres 3 and 4.
From the Buchau, the route continues along the lakeshore towards Brenntengraben. At kilometre 6, you are roughly at the same level as Pertisau, but on the opposite side. You run directly along the lakeshore, looking out over the sparkling waters to the village of Pertisau, which has a population of 700 and is backdropped by the Falzthurnjoch (2,150 metres). Now it's time to cover some distance. The asphalt path is fairly flat with only a few slight inclines along the long lakeside.
Once you reach the Achenseehof, you're about halfway there. The Achenseehof has a shipping pier and offers stunning panoramic 360 degree views of the lake. This is a great opportunity to refuel your energy and motivation.
At the lakeshore near Achenkirch, Lake Achensee meets Little Achensee, a separate bathing area where both swimmers and children can let off some steam in summer. In this area, one of the seven feed stations is located, along with the relay changeover.
Now it's getting serious. Passing through a turnstile, you leave the wide path and continue along the narrow Mariensteig. The challenges of this leg include roots, rocks, steps, and precipitous terrain next to the path leading towards Lake Achensee. Full concentration is required to move forward safely, as the path climbs gradually over 171 metres of elevation over a distance of five kilometres. Overtaking is hardly possible, and most participants don’t even want to try. On the plus side, the steep sections offer gorgeous views of the lake and the Achenseehof on the opposite shore, encouraging you to keep going.
The Gaisalm mountain hut, which can only be reached on foot or by boat, is beautifully situated in a small bay in Lake Achensee. By the time you get here, you will have covered 18 kilometres and the most difficult stage of the race. After a quick refreshment at the drink station, you continue through the forest and over scree towards Pertisau.
After the Gaisalm, the path narrows and continues along the lake without any strenuous climbs. Sure-footedness is still required as there are many roots, rocks and bridges to negotiate. Highlight: Passing under a covered section with a small waterfall. At the end of the trail, you pass a turnstile before the path widens out. The last few kilometres are on flat terrain along the lakeside promenade towards Pertisau.
