Husemersee

Husemersee is a small lake in the municipality of Ossingen, canton of Zurich, set in the wine-growing Zürcher Weinland of northern Switzerland. It covers about 8 hectares and holds four small islands. The whole area is a nature reserve, so it suits a quiet walk better than a classic beach day.

What will you see at Husemersee?

The lake sits in a calm, lightly built-up landscape. The path runs through protected land, and the surroundings include a fen (Flachmoor) of national importance. Hiking guides point visitors here for a variety of birds and rarer plant species. The four islands are easy to spot from the shore but are not meant for visitors.

How do you get there from Ossingen?

The simplest route starts at Ossingen railway station. A signposted footpath reaches the lake in about 30 minutes. If you want more, a loop of roughly 6.2 km, graded T1 (easy), takes around 1.5 hours and passes Kastelhof and Riethalde. A longer option continues from the lake via Meienbuck to Trüllikon in about 1 hour 15 minutes. Across the border in Thurgau, the Nussbaumer, Hasen and Hüttwilersee lakes can be added, and some route planners combine them into a single hike.

Can you swim?

Yes, but only in designated spots. Bathing is allowed at the bathing jetties (according to some sources on the western part of the lake). Air mattresses, rubber boats, SUP boards and large rings are banned, and dogs may not swim. The rules follow from the reserve status, so check the signs on site before getting in. Leaving marked paths or entering the shoreline zone may also be restricted.

When should you visit?

The walk works throughout the season. In summer the jetties make a dip possible, while spring and autumn are better for spotting birds. The route is short and easy, which makes it a good half-day in the Weinland. There are no entry gates or ticket desks at the lake.

Where is it, and what is nearby?

The lake lies at roughly 47.62 N, 8.70 E. The surrounding countryside of the Thur valley and the Weinland vineyards makes it easy to link the visit with other walks, for example towards Trüllikon.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Husemersee? Yes, at the bathing jetties. The lake is a nature reserve, so restrictions apply.

Can I bring my dog? For the walk, yes, but dogs are not allowed to swim in the lake.

How long is the walk from the station? About 30 minutes on a signposted path from Ossingen station.

Are inflatables or SUPs allowed? No. Air mattresses, rubber boats, SUP boards and large rings are banned.