Daubensee

Daubensee is a high-alpine lake at the Gemmi Pass above Leukerbad in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits at roughly 2,200 m above sea level and covers 69 hectares, making it one of the larger lakes in this part of the Bernese Alps. Bare rock walls frame a wide, treeless basin.

Where is Daubensee?

The lake lies on the route between Leukerbad and Kandersteg, just below the Gemmi Pass, which links Valais with the canton of Bern. Its coordinates are about 46.41°N, 7.62°E. With almost no trees around the shore, views open up in every direction, and the weather can turn quickly. It suits visitors who want real mountain scenery without a technical climb.

How do you get to Daubensee?

The easiest way is the cable car from Leukerbad up to the Gemmi Pass. The upper station stands around 2,350 m, higher than the lake, so the walk to the water is a gentle descent. You can also hike up a secured path from Leukerbad in about two hours. Cable car timetables depend on the season, so check them before you go.

What can you do at the lake?

The classic outing is the loop around Daubensee. Depending on the variant it measures about 6 to 8 km and takes two to two and a half hours, with 140 to 175 m of ascent in total. The track is gentle and manageable for most walkers with reasonable fitness.

For a longer day, continue over the Gemmi Pass to Kandersteg: about 8.5 km and three hours, passing the lake on the way. In winter the frozen surface and surrounding flats are used for cross-country skiing.

What is the Shepherd Festival?

Every year on the last Sunday of July, a Shepherd Festival takes place at Daubensee. It is a local tradition tied to sheep farming in the high pastures. Expect more visitors than usual if you come on that date.

When should you visit?

Summer and early autumn are best, when the trails are clear of snow. Note that the lake is shallow and drains underground in late autumn, so from November it may be empty. Snowmelt refills it in spring. At over 2,000 m, pack a warm layer, sunglasses and sun protection, even in July.

Frequently asked questions

Is Daubensee in Switzerland?

Yes. It lies in the canton of Valais at the Gemmi Pass, close to the spa village of Leukerbad.

How long does the walk around the lake take?

Usually two to two and a half hours, depending on the route you choose and your pace.

Does the lake hold water all year?

No. The shallow lake empties through underground outflow in late autumn and refills with snowmelt in spring. In winter it freezes.

Do I have to climb from the valley on foot?

No. The Leukerbad cable car takes you to the Gemmi Pass, from where the lake is a short, easy descent. Hiking up is optional.

Is it the same as Oeschinensee?

No. Oeschinensee is on the Kandersteg side, while Daubensee lies at the Gemmi Pass. You can visit both in one regional trip, but they are separate lakes.