Berglimattsee

Berglimattsee is a small alpine lake in the municipality of Glarus Süd, in the Swiss canton of Glarus. It sits at roughly 2,157 m above sea level on a modest plateau inside the Freiberg Kärpf reserve, close to the Gandfurggele pass. It rewards hikers who want mountain quiet and don't mind a steady climb on a mountain path.

Where is Berglimattsee?

The lake lies in the Glarus Alps, between the upper Niderental valley and the Sernftal. Its outflow feeds the Niderenbach, which later joins the Sernf river. The area belongs to Freiberg Kärpf, described as Europe's oldest wildlife reserve, where hunting has been banned since 1548. The coordinates are about 46.96° N, 9.12° E.

How do you get to Berglimattsee?

The usual route starts at the top station of the Kies–Mettmen cable car. From there the trail passes the Garichti reservoir and continues east along a mountain path to the lake. The Naturzentrum Glarnerland tip sheet gives around 3 km, about 1.5 hours of walking and roughly 550 m of ascent. Expect a proper mountain trail and a moderate level of fitness.

Longer approaches begin in Engi or Matt. They take about 4 hours with some 1,300 m of climbing, so they suit experienced hikers. You can also make a loop from the Garichti reservoir. A Komoot listing puts it at about 12 km with around 840 m of ascent and rates it hard.

What will you see?

A calm sheet of water on a high plateau, framed by the rocky ridges typical of the Kärpf massif. On the way you pass the Garichti reservoir and get views over the valley. This is a place for stillness rather than for attractions: there are no facilities at the lake, so carry your own water and food.

When should you go?

Naturzentrum Glarnerland recommends visiting mainly from July to October. Earlier in the year, snow can linger above 2,000 m, so check conditions before you set out. Start in the morning to make it back to the cable car in good time. At the trailhead in Mettmen, Berghotel Mettmen serves food before or after the hike.

Practical tips

• Wear sturdy hiking boots; the path can be rocky and steep.
• Pack layers, since mountain weather changes fast.
• Plan your return around the last Kies–Mettmen cable car.
• Stay on the trail and keep your distance from wildlife in the reserve.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the walk to Berglimattsee? About 1.5 hours one way from the Kies–Mettmen top station, over roughly 3 km.

Is the hike difficult? It is a mountain trail of moderate difficulty. The route from Engi or Matt takes around 4 hours and is considerably tougher.

When is the best season? July to October. Outside that window snow usually covers the route.

Can you buy food at the lake? No. Eat at Berghotel Mettmen at the start of the trail and bring any other supplies with you.