Lake Arnen

Lake Arnen (Arnensee) sits in the municipality of Gsteig in the Swiss canton of Bern, a short drive south of Gstaad. Wooded slopes and alpine pastures frame the dark water, and the lake fills a deep valley. It is a reservoir, closed off by a dam built in 1942 and operated by the energy company Romande Energie. The surface covers about 0.46 square kilometres and the volume is 10.5 million cubic metres. For visitors it makes a quiet day out from Gstaad or Les Diablerets.

What is there to see at Arnensee?

The main draw is the lake itself, set among forested hillsides with views toward the western Bernese Alps. A trail follows the southern shore, and on the northern side the Huus am Arnensee restaurant opens in summer. Above the lake lie grazing alps such as Alp Seeberg, so you pass herders' huts and cattle on the way.

How do you get there?

From Gstaad it takes roughly 20 minutes by car along a narrow but paved road, and a large car park waits right by the water. Without a car, take the Postauto bus from Gstaad via Gsteig toward Col du Pillon. For the return, the same bus service runs from Feutersoey back to Gstaad.

Which hike should you pick?

The classic route is easy: Col du Pillon, Lac Retaud, Col de Voré, then Arnensee and on to Feutersoey. Plan about 4 hours 40 minutes, with around 520 m of climbing and 930 m of descent. A tougher version of about 12 km follows part of the Tour des Alpes Vaudoises trail. Other options start in Gsteig and cross the Blattipass to Seeberg before dropping to Col du Pillon, about 4.5 hours and more demanding. The final descent to the lake can be steep, so bring sturdy boots, sun protection and rain gear.

When should you go?

Hiking season runs from June to October. The lakeside restaurant is open in summer and the alpine pastures are accessible. In autumn the trails can be warm and quieter. Outside the season, conditions depend on weather and snow; Gsteig also has marked winter walking routes, for example up the Wispile.

Can you swim in Arnensee?

This is a high-mountain energy reservoir, not a bathing lake. The water is cold and levels depend on how the power plant operates. Treat it as a destination for a walk and a picnic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Arnensee? In Gsteig, canton of Bern, south of Gstaad and near the Col du Pillon pass. In French it appears as Lac d'Arnon.

Is it a natural lake? It is a reservoir. The dam dates from 1942 and belongs to Romande Energie.

Can you drive to it? Yes. The road from Gstaad is paved and narrow, and there is a large car park at the lake.

How long is the hike from Col du Pillon? The easy route to Feutersoey via Arnensee takes about 4 hours 40 minutes.