Austrian heiress unveils partnerships for management of country's fifth-largest lake. - Inherited Austrian fifth-largest lake owner steps down
In a surprising turn of events, Anna Mathyl, the new private owner of Mondsee—Austria's sixth-largest lake and a popular vacation spot—has announced plans to terminate all leases on the lake. This decision has caused significant uncertainty among businesses and individuals who operate on the lake, particularly hotels, restaurants, and fishing activities.
Anna Mathyl, a resident of Salzburg, inherited the lake from her mother last spring. The Mondsee was originally given to her family by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1809. Despite her attempt to sell the lake to the city for a double-digit million amount in 2009, which didn't go through, she is now the current owner.
The termination of leases does not restrict lake activities such as swimming, diving, surfing, or boating. However, the future use of the lake remains unclear, with no detailed public plans announced yet. Local authorities and the public are waiting for further reactions or policy clarifications from Anna Mathyl or the local authorities.
It's worth noting that Austria is implementing tighter regulations on short-term tourist rentals, including Airbnb, from mid-2024 onward. These regulations limit tourist rentals to 90 days per year without special permits. However, the impact on Mondsee's lease issue is not directly linked to these regulations at this time.
Mayor Josef Wendtner, who has a good relationship with Anna Mathyl, expressed his expectation for a "well-meaning" solution for the lessees. He believes that negotiations for further use of the lake are possible. Anna Mathyl has also mentioned plans to comment on the "planned ecologically and economically sustainable use of the lake" soon.
Mondsee, located in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, is a popular destination offering recreational activities for swimmers, sailors, and divers. The water of Mondsee is considered a public right and can be used without restrictions.
The situation remains fluid, and local stakeholders are waiting for further details or reactions to these lease terminations. Anna Mathyl is currently on vacation and did not provide detailed responses to media inquiries.
Sources: - Kurier - Upper Austrian News - Heute
[1] Anna Mathyl ends all leases on Mondsee, causing uncertainty [2] Austria to tighten regulations on short-term tourist rentals [3] No updates on river cruises or broader tourism infrastructure related to Mondsee [4] Impact on travelers uncertain due to lease terminations at Mondsee
- Anna Mathyl, having mentioned plans for the "planned ecologically and economically sustainable use of the lake," may consider introducing community policies that could potentially include vocational training programs for locals, focusing on outdoor-living, home-and-garden, and travel-related skills, to foster an eco-friendly lifestyle and the development of unique experiences for visitors.
- As Austria implements tighter regulations on short-term tourist rentals, certain businesses on Mondsee might explore alternative revenue streams such as providing vocational training for their employees in areas like hospitality, sustainability, and outdoor activities, enabling them to contribute positively to the local community and maintain a unique charm for travelers.
