Heiress Cancels Lake Contracts at Austrian Tourist Hotspot

Lake Mondsee Ownership Shift Sparks Tourism Concerns

Anna Mathyl, the new owner of Austria's Lake Mondsee, has terminated all rental contracts for lakeside facilities in a move that's causing significant disruption in the popular Salzkammergut tourism region. The 48-year-old inherited the lake from her mother last year and immediately implemented sweeping changes to its management.

Contract Termination and Rate Hikes

According to local reports, Mathyl sent termination notices for approximately 150 buoys and hundreds of jetties and boathouses. In her correspondence, she stated that private or commercial use of the lake now requires explicit permission from her as the property owner.

Sources indicate the primary motivation involves substantial rate increases, with comparable lakes charging up to four times more for similar facilities. Mathyl has expressed openness to negotiating new contracts but maintains that current rates are unsustainable.

Tourist Impact and Ownership Nuances

While the contract cancellations affect docking facilities, tourists can still access the lake for swimming and water sports. The distinction lies in property rights: Mathyl owns the lakebed and shoreline, while the water itself remains public property managed by local authorities.

Local business owners have voiced serious concerns about the economic impact, particularly during peak summer season. Many have operated under long-term agreements that are now suddenly void.

Historical Context

Lake Mondsee has been privately held since 1809 when Napoleon Bonaparte gifted it to the Mathyl family. The 14.2 km² lake ranks as Austria's sixth largest and attracts watersports enthusiasts with its clear waters and mountain vistas.

Mathyl has declined to comment on the controversy, stating only that she is "currently on vacation" as the situation develops.