Its surface is approximately 24.5 km2 and its maximum depth of 191 metres makes it the deepest and by volume largest lake located entirely within Austrian territory; only Lake Constance on the border is deeper and bigger.

It is a popular tourist destination, and its attractions include Schloss Ort, a medieval castle.

The lake is surrounded by mountains, including the Traunstein, and a number of other towns and villages surround the lake, including Altmünster and Traunkirchen.

There is a local legend that speaks of a waterhorse that lives in the lake.

Records mention a mermaid riding on the back of a creature who lives in the waters.