I grew up in the late 90s in a small village of 600 inhabitants – when children were still allowed to be children. After school, nature became our playground. “Ox on the mountain” and “Cops and robbers” were our favourite games. We were joined by dozens of children from all over the village. At weekends, we met at the various festivities, which took place on a regular basis and were organised by the various clubs and associations in Obertilliach. My personal favourite was always the Klapfseefest held by the Obertilliach folk dance group. There was always lots of merry singing, dancing and good food – it was a magical place for me even back then.
My hometown Obertilliach nestles in an idyllic location between the Carnic Alps and the Lienz Dolomites, at 1,450 metres above sea level. Anyone who has ever visited this place knows that all eyes are drawn to an impressive rock face on the Carnic Ridge – the Porze. In summer or winter, this impressive mountain is visible from all over the village. However, it is difficult to say which season it is more beautiful here in Obertilliach.
Growing up at a time when hiking was simply not cool, I nevertheless quickly acquired a taste for it in my youth. Charming alpine pastures, challenging peaks or rock faces – that’s where I feel most at home.
Yet the most beautiful spot on earth in my hometown is so tangibly close and accessible to anyone: From Obertilliach, head into the idyllic valley, past the children’s playground in Mühlboden and follow the 7-km forest trail that leads into the valley – keeping the Porze in your sights. The trail not only takes around 1.5 hours on foot, but is also easily accessible by mountain bike, e-bike and even by car. As you pass rustic alpine huts, grazing cows, persistent fields of snow and breathtaking scenery, you reach your destination before you even know it: LAKE KLAPFSEE
A small mountain lake, at 1,680 metres above sea level, nestles under the impressive rock face of the Porze. For me, this is the most beautiful place on earth on any day and in any season. When the weather is lovely, the mountain peaks are reflected in the crystal clear lake. On a newly-built jetty, you can sit and enjoy the tranquillity, watching the ducks who have settled here. It is an indescribable spectacle of nature. I sometimes take a stroll here with my friends, chatting and taking photos. Other times, I cycle here alone in search of peace and to enjoy nature. I like to come here at sunrise; on other days, I stay until the sun sets.
Lake Klapfsee is also an excellent starting point for a short hike to the Porzehütte (at 1,942 m) or for a challenging tour to the summit of the Porze mountain (at 2,579 m). From up here, I also love gazing down at this wonderful scene – it is quite simply my favourite place.
