Traunfall

The Traun drops about twelve metres over a wide limestone step at Roitham, and while the height is modest the width and volume make it substantial - the Traun carries the drainage of the whole Salzkammergut. Its historical importance is about salt: the Traun was the route by which Hallstatt and Ebensee salt reached the Danube, and the fall blocked it, so cargo had to be unloaded and carted round until a bypass canal with locks was cut in 1580 - one of the earliest lock structures in central Europe, built by Hans Gasteiger, and the remains are still traceable. A hydroelectric plant now takes part of the flow, so how impressive the fall looks depends on how much water is being released, which varies.

What you actually see

• A wide limestone step - the Traun dropping about twelve metres across its width.
• The 1580 bypass canal - one of the earliest lock structures in central Europe.
• The salt route - the reason the fall mattered and had to be got around.
• Viewing platforms - built out over the river beside the drop.

When to go

April to October; high water in spring. Two hours.

Honest expectations

A hydro plant diverts flow, so the fall can look thin - it depends on releases. It is a short visit, an hour at most. Platforms are wet with spray and the rocks below are dangerous.

Nearby

Gmunden and the Traunsee are south; Lambach Abbey is north.