Windsurfing on Lake Kaltern
Adventure, history, and pure passion
Adventure, history, and pure passion
Welcome to Lake Kaltern, a true paradise for windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts of all skill levels! Nestled in the beautiful landscape of South Tyrol, the lake offers not only ideal wind conditions but also a rich tradition and vibrant windsurfing culture. Since the 1970s, a community has developed here that has made history – from Italy’s first windsurfing board to world championship titles.
A hotspot for windsurfing enthusiasts
Lake Kaltern is particularly famous for the “Ora,” the reliable southerly wind that regularly blows from Lake Garda into the Adige Valley starting in March. Perfect for setting sail and gliding across the water! With mild temperatures, warm bathing water up to 28°C in summer, and the idyllic scenery, the lake is a dream destination for both beginners and experienced windsurfers.
The main meeting point for all windsurfers is the lido at the Gretl am See restaurant in St. Josef am See. This is home to South Tyrol’s only windsurfing school, with trained, certified instructors offering weekly courses for adults and children. You’ll receive professional guidance from the very first basics to advanced techniques. There’s also a well-stocked surf shop and rental options for windsurfing boards, wetsuits, and more.
The local Kaltern Surf Club, with its clubhouse on the lakeshore, regularly organizes exciting regattas and events that provide plenty of fun and fellowship – from the International Kalterersee Regatta to the popular Pier Party.
Tips for your stay
Lake Kaltern is idyllically situated at 216 meters above sea level, surrounded by vineyards and nature reserves. After windsurfing, well-maintained bathing establishments, restaurants, and sunbathing lawns invite you to relax. Families enjoy a wide range of leisure activities, and those looking to end the day in a relaxed atmosphere will find numerous beautiful spots along the lakeshore.
The “Ora” is a thermal southerly wind that blows from Lake Garda through the Adige Valley during stable high-pressure weather and reliably reaches Lake Caldaro – usually daily from around 1:00 p.m. For windsurfers, this means consistent, predictable wind conditions with ideal conditions for training, courses, or simply a relaxing session on the water. The “Ora” makes Lake Caldaro one of the most popular inland windsurfing areas in Northern Italy – perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
Absolutely! Lake Kaltern is shallow, warm, and easy to navigate—perfect conditions for anyone wanting to rediscover windsurfing. The windsurfing school located right on the lake offers professional beginner courses that combine theory and practice. Children, teenagers, and adults learn step by step how to safely handle boards and sails—under the guidance of experienced, certified instructors. Thanks to the calm mornings (usually windless) and the afternoon “ora,” learners can optimally develop their windsurfing skills.
The Kaltern Windsurfing School, with its attached surf shop, is located right next to the “Gretl am See” lido in St. Josef. Here, you can rent windsurf boards, rigs, wetsuits, life jackets, and other equipment – by the hour or for several days. Courses (basic courses, children’s courses, and private lessons) run from the end of May to the beginning of September and conclude with an internationally recognized basic windsurfing certificate. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Contact and Booking
Windsurfing School Kaltern – Gretl am See
St. Josef am See 18, 39052 Kaltern
Tel.: +39 0471 960055
Email: info@gretlamsee.com
Windsurfing Kaltern (Sports Club)
Email: windsurfingkaltern@gmail.com