Schwarzsee

Schwarzsee (French: Lac Noir) is a small mountain lake in the canton of Fribourg, Switzerland, set in the Fribourg Prealps at roughly 1,050 m above sea level. It covers 0.47 km², yet the scenery is dramatic: the Schwyberg ridge rises to the west, Les Reccardets and the Spitzflue to the south, and Kaiseregg dominates the skyline. The coordinates place it in the German-speaking part of the canton, near Jaun and Plaffeien.

What is there to see at Schwarzsee?

The lake itself, framed by steep slopes, is the star. An easy walking loop of about 4 km circles the shore and passes the "Dragon of Lac Noir", an iron sculpture standing on a rock about 20 m tall. The path suits families and casual walkers.

Why is it called the Black Lake?

The name means exactly that. In earlier times the sulphurous water was used for therapeutic baths, and the area still carries the name Schwarzsee Bad as a reminder of those spa days.

Can you swim here?

Yes, in summer. The beach near Gypsera is a family favourite, and a second one, Staldenmotta, is about a 10-minute walk away. Being an alpine lake, the water stays cool, so expect a refreshing dip rather than a warm bath.

Which hikes start nearby?

Most routes begin at the Schwarzsee, Gypsera bus stop. The big objective is Kaiseregg (2,185 m). According to the Swiss Alpine Club, the mountain route climbs well over 1,000 m, takes several hours and runs via Golmly and Euschelspass before descending towards Schwarzsee Bad. If you prefer something gentler, the ridge walk along the Schwyberg is a good alternative.

When should you go?

• Summer: lakeshore walks, beaches and mountain hikes.
• Winter: skiing and snowboarding on the Gypsera slope, run by Kaisereggbahnen Schwarzsee AG; the season usually lasts from December to March.
• Spring and autumn: quieter days for a short stroll, though higher trails can still hold snow.

How do you get there?

The easiest approach from Fribourg is via Plaffeien. Public transport serves the lake, and the Gypsera stop is the trailhead for most walks. Car parks are close to the water but fill up quickly on sunny weekends.

Frequently asked questions

Is Schwarzsee the same as Lac Noir? Yes. Schwarzsee is the German name and Lac Noir the French one, reflecting the language border in the canton.

How long does the lake loop take? The circuit is about 4 km and usually takes under an hour and a half at a relaxed pace, including photo stops.

Is this the Schwarzsee near Zermatt? No. The name is common in the Alps. This lake lies in Fribourg; the Schwarzsee below the Matterhorn is a different place entirely.

Is there a ski area? Yes, a small family-oriented resort with the Gypsera surface lift, open in the winter season.