Oberblegisee

Oberblegisee is a mountain lake in the municipality of Glarus Süd, in the Swiss canton of Glarus. It sits at roughly 1,420 m above sea level, above the village of Luchsingen and close to the car-free resort of Braunwald, beneath the Glärnisch massif. The lake covers about 17 hectares and is dammed by an old glacial moraine. It features on lists of Switzerland's prettiest mountain lakes and is one of the most popular walking goals in the Glarnerland.

What will you see at Oberblegisee?

The lake lies in a shallow hollow ringed by alpine pasture and forest, with the rocky faces of Glärnisch rising behind it. On calm days the peaks mirror in the water, which makes the shore a favourite photo stop. There are grassy spots and picnic places by the water, and mountain huts along the trail often serve food, though opening times depend on the season.

How do you get to Oberblegisee?

The classic route starts in Braunwald, reached by funicular from Linthal. From the upper station at Grotzenbüel, a path descends gently to the lake. It then continues to the Brunnenberg station, where a cable car runs down to Luchsingen. Allow about 2.5 hours of walking time; the grade is moderate. Loop variants via the Bächialp and Bösbächialp pastures add roughly an hour.

Because the route is one-way, the easiest plan is to take the train to Linthal and return from Luchsingen-Hätzingen. Drivers can park at Luchsingen-Hätzingen station and begin with the Brunnenberg cable car instead. Published distances vary between about 7.5 and 9 km, so check braunwald.ch or glarnerland.ch for current details before you set out.

When is the best time to visit?

The lifts generally run from mid-May or June until October, with exact dates changing each year. June to September is best for walking and swimming, and October brings autumn colour. In winter, a marked snowshoe trail leads to the lake. Plan your day around the last lift down to the valley.

Can you swim in Oberblegisee?

Yes, swimming is possible, but the water stays cold even in summer. Most visitors take a quick dip or cool their feet after the walk. Bring a towel and a warm layer, since mountain weather changes fast.

Who is the walk suited to?

The path is gentle and needs no climbing gear, so it suits families and walkers of average fitness. Wear sturdy shoes and carry sun protection and water. The longer loop variants involve noticeable ascent.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Oberblegisee? In the canton of Glarus, within Glarus Süd, at about 1,420 m, above Luchsingen and near Braunwald.

How long does the walk take? From Grotzenbüel past the lake to Brunnenberg takes around 2.5 hours. Loop variants take longer.

Can you swim in the lake? Yes, but expect cold water. The shore has places for a picnic and a rest.

When do the lifts operate? Usually from mid-May or June to October. Current timetables are on braunwald.ch.