Graz is inland (about 350 km from the Adriatic), but the Styrian lakes south and east of the city, plus the Mur, offer summer swimming for dogs. The Schwarzlsee 8 km south has a designated dog beach.
Schwarzlsee, 8141 Premstätten
The largest swimming lake south of Graz (8 km), with a designated Hundestrand on the western shore. Grass entry, shallow water, signed perimeter. Free entry to the dog zone.
💡 Reachable by bike on the Mur trail (40 min) or bus 631 from Jakominiplatz. Busy on summer weekends — go weekday mornings.
Augarten, 8020 Graz
Riverside park 30 min south of the Altstadt along the Mur trail, with a generous off-leash dog meadow and shaded picnic spots. The lake itself is for ducks, but the meadow is the local dog social hub.
💡 Cycle hire on the Mur trail near the centre — €5/half-day — makes this an easy outing without a car.
Stubenbergsee, 8223 Stubenberg
Beautiful east-Styrian lake 50 km north-east of Graz, with two designated dog beaches and crystal-clear water. The most scenic dog swimming option in the region.
💡 1h drive from Graz — best as a full-day excursion, combining with a visit to Schloss Herberstein nearby.
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Schlossberghotel — Das Kunsthotel
★★★★ · 9/10
€165/night
Hotel zum Dom
★★★★ · 8.9/10
€125/night
Grand Hotel Wiesler
★★★★ · 8.8/10
€145/night