Lüsgersee

Lüsgersee is a small alpine lake on the Belalp terrace above Blatten bei Naters in the Swiss canton of Valais, part of the Aletsch Arena. It sits a little above 2,100 m; sources quote anywhere between 2,094 and 2,170 m. From the top cable car station the lake is roughly a quarter of an hour on foot, so it suits families and anyone wanting an easy outing with big mountain scenery. You will also see it spelled Lüsgensee.

How do you get to Lüsgersee?

Start in Blatten bei Naters, which is served by public transport from Brig and Naters. Belalp is a car-free zone, so the final climb is by cable car from Blatten. From the top station a gentle path crosses alpine pasture to the water. The walk is short and needs nothing more than sturdy walking shoes.

What can you do at the lake?

In summer people picnic on the shore, and some take a quick dip in the cold mountain water. Children like to look for small creatures around the banks. It is also a convenient rest stop on longer walks.

The lake features on several routes:

• a loop from the top station past Lüsgersee and Färricha to the Aletschbord viewpoint, with an open view of the Great Aletsch Glacier,
• a harder circuit of about 15 km from Blatten via the Lüsgen chapel, around five hours in total,
• the longer Aletsch Panorama Trail toward the suspension bridge at the glacier's gateway, 14-16 km, best between June and October.

Can you visit in winter?

Yes. A snowshoe trail runs from the Belalp top station to the lake, and you can descend to Blatten by the Holzji route. In winter the lake lies under snow, so the trip is a quiet snowshoe walk rather than a swim.

When is the best time to go?

June to October is the most practical window, with snow-free paths and the cable car running. Mornings are quieter and the glacier views are often clearer. Pack an extra layer, since weather changes quickly at 2,000 m.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the walk from the cable car? About 15 minutes at an easy pace from the Belalp top station.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. The path to the lake is short and easy, and kids enjoy spotting animals by the water.

Can you swim in Lüsgersee? Visitors do swim in summer. The water is cold, so most people keep it to a short cool-down.

Can you continue to a glacier viewpoint? Yes. The loop via Färricha leads to Aletschbord, which overlooks the Great Aletsch Glacier.

Can I drive there? You can drive to Blatten, but Belalp is car-free. The way up is by cable car.