Nature in Switzerland
A guide to 298 Nature in Switzerland — with descriptions, photos and traveler visits from the NextOnTrip community. Locations spread across 236 cities and towns. Most visited by the community: Tour de Pierre, Bire, Fulberg.
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Lac des Autannes
Anniviers
Lac des Autannes is a high-alpine lake above Grimentz, in the municipality of Anniviers in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits at 2,686 m (8,812 ft) and covers roughly 4.5 hectares. Hikers heading up from the Moiry valley toward the Col de Torrent pass reach it as a quiet stop on the way. Where is Lac des Autannes? The lake lies in the Val d'Anniviers, high above the village of Grimentz. It is a high-set body of water in open alpine terrain, with no buildings nearby. How do you get to Lac des Autannes? Most walkers start at the Moiry dam, whose crest stands at 2,248 m. By car, take the A9 to Sierre, leave at exit 29 (Sierre-Est), then drive through Vissoie and Grimentz along the Route de Moiry. There is parking at the dam. Without a car, take the train to Sierre, a postal bus to Vissoie, and change there for the bus to Moiry. From the dam the trail crosses the crest and climbs toward the Torrent alpine pasture. About halfway between the pasture and the Col de Torrent you come to the lake, where tables and benches invite a longer break. The last stretch up to the pass is steeper. What else is there to see nearby? The Moiry dam – a restaurant with a sunny terrace and a view over the reservoir stands by the crest, and a via ferrata runs along the left side of the dam. A guided tour inside the dam is available with the Pass Anniviers Liberté. Tour du Lac de Moiry – a 13.4 km loop of about 4.5 hours with 805 m of ascent, passing Lac de Châteauré, Lac de la Bayenna and Lac du Louché. Col de Torrent – from the pass you can continue toward Evolène, around 3 hours on foot. The route forms part of a stage of the Matterhorn Circuit. When should you go? At almost 2,700 m, the trail is most pleasant in summer and early autumn, once the snow has gone. Bring a warm layer and sun protection, since weather changes quickly at this altitude. Start in the morning to leave time for the return to the dam. Frequently asked questions How high is Lac des Autannes? It lies at 2,686 m above sea level, above Grimentz. How big is the lake? Its surface is about 4.5 hectares, so it is a small lake. Where is the easiest starting point? The Moiry dam (2,248 m), which has parking, a restaurant and a postal bus connection. Is there somewhere to rest by the water? Yes, tables and benches stand by the lake, and the trail continues up to the Col de Torrent.
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Lej Nair
Pontresina
Lej Nair is a small mountain lake at the top of the Bernina Pass, in the Pontresina area of the Swiss canton of Graubünden. The name is Romansh for "black lake" (German: Schwarzer See). It lies at roughly 2,223 m above sea level, right by the pass summit, between Lago Bianco ("white lake") and the little Lej Pitschen. Where is this Lej Nair? The lake sits beside the road over the Bernina Pass, which links the Engadine with the Italian-speaking Val Poschiavo. Its coordinates are about 46.416° N, 10.007° E. Several Graubünden lakes share the name, so note that this one is on the Bernina Pass and not one of the others in the Engadine. What makes it special? Its dark, still surface stands out against nearby Lago Bianco, whose milky tint comes from meltwater of the Cambrena glacier. A watershed runs right here. Lej Nair drains into the Inn basin and so eventually to the Black Sea, while Lago Bianco flows towards the Adriatic. Two neighbouring lakes, two different seas. What can you see nearby? Lago Bianco, a reservoir next to the Bernina Express railway line, with glacier-capped peaks behind it. Lej Pitschen, the second small lake close by. Ospizio Bernina at about 2,310 m, a historic rest stop on the windswept pass. The language border between Romansh-speaking Engadine and Italian-speaking Poschiavo. How do you get there? The Bernina Pass is reachable by road from Pontresina and by Rhaetian Railway, and the Bernina Express calls at Ospizio Bernina station. From the stop it is a short walk to the lake. Lej Nair also lies on the Bernina Tour, a multi-day trekking route. Stage 2, from the pass towards Diavolezza, goes past the lake and turns uphill at Lej Pitschen towards Lej d'Arlas and Lej da Diavolezza. When should you go? At over 2,200 m the season is short. June to October is best, when trails are free of snow and the pass road is easy to drive. In winter the area is under snow and the weather can be harsh and windy. Bring warm layers even in summer, because the pass is exposed and cools quickly. Frequently asked questions Is Lej Nair the same as Schwarzer See? Yes, Schwarzer See is the German form of the Romansh name, meaning "black lake". Graubünden has more than one lake of that name; this one is on the Bernina Pass. Can you swim in it? It is a cold high-alpine lake beside a trail and road, so it works better as a walking goal and photo stop than as a swimming spot. How long does a visit take? You can take in the lake in about ten minutes. Combined with Lago Bianco and Lej Pitschen, plan on half an hour to an hour. Can I get there by train? Yes. The Bernina Express stops at Ospizio Bernina, from where the lake is a short walk away.
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Lej Marsch
St. Moritz
Lej Marsch is a small forest bathing lake above St. Moritz in the Engadine (Graubünden, Switzerland). In Romansh, "lej" means lake. It sits among trees on the slope toward Champfèr and Surlej, which makes it an easy goal for a walk, a bike ride or a quick swim in the alpine summer. What will you find at Lej Marsch? A quiet, wind-sheltered pond ringed by forest. There is none of the infrastructure of the big valley lakes, so the place feels like a woodland retreat. Local trail descriptions note that the water is pleasantly warm by Engadine standards, and the shore suits picnics and barbecues. Thanks to the sheltered position, it is comfortable to linger both in the water and on the bank. How do you get to Lej Marsch? The shortest approach starts in St. Moritz Bad. Walk behind the Hotel Kempinski to the Olympic ski jump, then follow the path uphill to the lake. Cyclists take the same way through St. Moritz Bad past the jump. From the lake you can continue on signposted cycle route No. 65 (Inn Cycle Path) toward Sils, which leads to Lake Champfèr. Other options: the short Surlej – Champfèrersee – Crest'Alta loop (about 4.9 km, 1h25), which can be extended to Lej Marsch; the longer Sils – Surlej – Lej Marsch – Lej Nair – Lej Zuppò – Sils circuit (about 19.9 km, around 2h50, 559 m of climbing). When should you visit? In summer for swimming and picnics. In winter a trail-running route leads from the Olympic ski jump to Lej Marsch and then down to Lej da Champfèr. When conditions allow, it crosses Lake Champfèr with views of Piz Corvatsch and Piz da la Margna. The regional tourism board advises staying off frozen lakes until trails are officially prepared and marked open. What else is nearby? Lej da Champfèr, on the bike route toward Sils. Lej Nair and Lej Zuppò, more small lakes on the longer loop from Sils. Silvaplanersee, the large valley lake favoured by sailors and windsurfers. The Olympic ski jump in St. Moritz, a useful landmark on the approach. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Lej Marsch? Yes. It is used as a forest bathing lake, and the water is warm for the Engadine. How do you walk there from St. Moritz? From St. Moritz Bad, go behind the Hotel Kempinski to the Olympic ski jump and continue uphill to the lake. Can you cycle to it? Yes. Bike routes pass the Olympic ski jump, and you can carry on along route No. 65 toward Sils. Is it safe to walk on the ice in winter? Only on routes that are officially prepared and marked as open. Do not step onto frozen lakes on your own.
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Untersee
Innerarosa
Untersee is a mountain lake in Arosa, in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It sits at roughly 1,691 m above sea level and is the lower of the two lakes inside the resort's built-up area, below the larger Obersee. Locals and visitors treat it as Arosa's natural swimming lake, and it is listed at about 17 m deep. Where is Untersee and how does it relate to Obersee? Arosa has two lakes within the village: the Obersee (about 1,734 m) above and the Untersee below. The Mittelbach stream links them. Untersee lies away from the busiest part of the centre, ringed by alpine meadows and conifer forest, at approximately 46.779 N, 9.682 E. The name is common across Switzerland and Germany, so make sure you are heading to the lake in Arosa and not to the Untersee arm of Lake Constance. Can you swim here? Yes, and swimming is the main reason to come. The Strandbad Untersee is a fully equipped lido on the shore, with a sandy beach, sunbathing lawns, diving platforms and a heated paddling pool for children. Mountain water stays cool even in summer, so plan your swim for warm, sunny days. The bathing season runs through summer; check current opening hours with Arosa Tourism before you travel. Which walk starts here? Untersee is the trailhead for a circular four-lake hike. The route leads to the Stausee reservoir (also called Iselsee, about 1,606 m), on to the small Grüenseeli (about 1,811 m) and then to the Alteinsee. It makes a full day out for families and regular walkers, mixing the lido shore, a dam, higher-altitude ponds and views of the peaks around Arosa. Carry water, a layer for changing weather and shoes with solid grip. How do you get to Untersee? Arosa is the terminus of the railway from Chur. The Rhaetian Railway ride takes about an hour and winds over many bridges and through tunnels. From Arosa station you can walk to the lake, and local buses cover the resort. If you drive, leave the car in a village car park, since traffic in the centre is restricted. When is the best time to visit? June to September suits swimming and hiking best: trails around the lakes are clear of snow and the lido is open. At this altitude mornings can be cold and the weather shifts quickly. In winter Arosa is a ski resort and the lakes freeze, so Untersee becomes part of the snowy scenery rather than a destination in itself. What else is nearby? The Obersee is the bigger lake in the centre of Arosa, with a fountain and, in summer, rowing boats, pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards for hire. You can link both shores in a single stroll along the Mittelbach. Further out are more mountain lakes, including the Grüenseeli and the Scheideggseeli, reached by marked trails. Frequently asked questions How high is Untersee in Arosa? About 1,691 m above sea level, a little lower than the Obersee. Is there a beach at Untersee? Yes. The Strandbad Untersee has a sandy beach, sunbathing lawns, diving platforms and a heated children's pool. Are Untersee and Obersee the same lake? No. They are two separate lakes in Arosa joined by the Mittelbach. The Obersee is larger and central, while the Untersee is lower down and serves as the natural bathing lake. How deep is Untersee? Tourism sources give a depth of about 17 m.
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Lac des Audannes
Ayent
Lac des Audannes is a small high-alpine lake in the commune of Ayent, in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits above the resort of Anzère, beneath the Wildhorn massif, at roughly 2,450 metres above sea level and covers around 8 to 9 hectares. Walkers come for the bare rock, open pastures and quiet that you find far from any road. Where is Lac des Audannes? The lake lies in the Bernese Alps side of Valais, high above the Rhône valley and the Anzère ski area. Scree slopes and ridges rise toward the Wildhorn (3,246 m). Don't confuse it with Lac des Autannes in the Moiry valley (Val d'Anniviers), which is a different lake altogether. How do you get to Lac des Audannes? Most visitors start at Pas de Maimbré, reached by gondola from Anzère. From the top station a mountain trail leads to the lake and on to the hut. The popular loop via the lake and Cabane des Audannes returns to Anzère: about 16.6 km, roughly 630 m of climbing and close to 5 hours 45 minutes on foot. Longer approaches start from Les Rousses or from Lake Tseuzier and are rated hard. The lake is also on the Tour du Wildhorn, where the stage from Col des Eaux Froides descends past the water toward the hut. What is there to see? Cabane des Audannes stands above the lake at about 2,508 m. It serves as the base for climbers heading up the Wildhorn and as a handy rest stop for hikers. The basin is ringed by rock, so the setting shows off the character of the high Valais Alps well. If you have less time, a gentler target lies nearby: Lac du Luché at about 2,264 m. From the Pas de Maimbré gondola summit it is a 1.5 km out-and-back walk of about 45 minutes with 120 m of ascent. When should you go? Plan high-mountain routes for summer and early autumn, once the snow has left the trails. Check the gondola schedule from Anzère and current conditions before setting out, since weather changes fast at this altitude. The area also hosts the Trail des Audannes, a 25 km mountain race that starts in Anzère and heads toward the hut. Frequently asked questions Can you drive to Lac des Audannes? No. It is reached on foot; the shortest approach starts with the gondola from Anzère to Pas de Maimbré. How long does the hike take? The full loop from Pas de Maimbré via the lake and the hut takes around 5 hours 45 minutes. The shorter walk to nearby Lac du Luché takes about 45 minutes. Is there a hut at the lake? Yes, Cabane des Audannes at about 2,508 m, overlooking the lake. It is the starting point for Wildhorn ascents. Is it the same as Lac des Autannes? No. Lac des Autannes is in the Moiry valley. Lac des Audannes lies above Anzère in the commune of Ayent.
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Lago del Sambuco
Fusio
Lago del Sambuco is a reservoir above the village of Fusio in the municipality of Lavizzara, in the Swiss canton of Ticino. The surface sits at roughly 1,461 m above sea level, at the head of the Valle Lavizzara, a side valley of the Valle Maggia, and the lake feeds the Maggia hydropower system. What is Lago del Sambuco? The lake was created by a dam on the Maggia built between 1954 and 1956. It is an arch-gravity structure 130 m high with a crest 363 m long, run by Ofima (Officine Idroelettriche della Maggia). The reservoir stretches about 3 km, is around 500 m wide and covers roughly 1.1 km². When full it holds about 64 million m³ of water. There is a cantonal plan to raise the dam to 145 m, which would lift capacity to around 80 million m³, but it is still at the planning stage. How do you get to Lago del Sambuco? Travel to Fusio at the end of the valley. Bus 334 runs there from Bignasco. From the village a footpath leads up to the dam in about 50 minutes. A snack bar stands by the reservoir and is the last place to buy food before the climb higher up, so carry your own supplies for longer routes. What can you see and do here? The main sight is the dam itself and the long, narrow lake framed by steep slopes. Several walks start here: Loop via Alpe di Campo la Torba returns to the lake after 14 km. It takes about 5 hours, climbs 851 m and is graded T2 (moderate). Short loop around the Narèt lakes goes from the dam to Lago Piccolo del Narèt and Lago Cristallina, then returns over a pass in the Sasso Nero ridge. It takes about 2 hours with roughly 200 m of ascent. Passo del Narèt (2,438 m) links the Val Sambuco with the Val Torta and Ossasco in the Val Bedretto. The Capanna Cristallina hut (2,349 m) lies on the way. Lago del Narèt itself sits at 2,310 m. Other huts in the area include Sasso Nero, Poncione di Braga, Basodino and Alpe Fontana, which makes multi-day trips easy to plan. When should you visit? The high trails are best in summer and early autumn, once the snow has gone. Before heading above the lake, check current conditions and hut opening times, because the stretch above Narèt is proper alpine terrain. Frequently asked questions Where is Lago del Sambuco? Above Fusio in the municipality of Lavizzara, in the Valle Lavizzara of Ticino, at about 1,461 m. How far is the walk from Fusio? About 50 minutes on a footpath from the village. Reach Fusio by bus 334 from Bignasco. Who operates the dam? Ofima operates the dam and the Maggia power plants. The dam is 130 m high and was built in 1954–1956. Can you buy food at the lake? Yes, there is a snack bar on the shore. It is the last chance to eat before the climb towards the Narèt pass.
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Lago Tremorgio
Rodi
Lago Tremorgio is an alpine lake above the village of Rodi, in the Valle Leventina, within the municipality of Prato Leventina in the Swiss canton of Ticino. It sits at 1,830 m above sea level and covers roughly 39 hectares. A cable car from Rodi-Fiesso lifts you to the shore in minutes, which makes it one of the easiest high-mountain lakes to reach in southern Switzerland. How do you get to Lago Tremorgio? The Teleferica del Tremorgio starts in Rodi at about 940 m. The ride up takes around 5 minutes in one of two cabins, each carrying eight passengers. The lift runs seasonally, roughly from June to mid-October, from early morning to evening and only in suitable weather. Schedules shift after maintenance work, so check the current timetable with Ticino Turismo before you travel. Rodi-Fiesso is on the Gotthard main road and rail corridor, so it is easy to reach by car or train from both Ticino and central Switzerland. What is there to see at the lake? A gentle path circles the water. It is almost flat and works well for families with children. The Capanna Tremorgio mountain hut stands a few minutes from the top station. It belongs to Azienda Elettrica Ticinese, opened in 1922 and offers 34 beds. The lake has also supplied hydropower for nearly a century. Views take in the ridges around the lake and the slopes of the Leventina valley. Mornings are quiet and still, a good moment for photos. Which hikes start here? The lake loop is the shortest option, an hour or less with almost no climbing. Capanna Leit (about 2,260 m) is a goal for fit walkers, around 1.5 to 2 hours from Tremorgio. The SAT Mendrisio section runs it. It was built in 1981 to replace an older refuge and has 64 places, with a warden present from June to October. The name Leit comes from the Leventina dialect and relates to the word for small lakes. The Alpe Campolungo and Passo Vanit loop is about 8.5 km with roughly 550 m of ascent, graded T2, returning past Capanna Tremorgio. Campo Tencia, Garzonera, Fusio or the descent to Dalpe follow marked mountain trails (white-red-white) and suit well-trained hikers. Campo Tencia takes about 3 hours. When should you go? Come while the cable car runs, between June and October. July and August bring the most settled weather and open huts, while early autumn offers clear air and fewer visitors. Outside the season the climb from the valley is long and demanding. Practical tips Pack a warm layer, since 1,830 m is noticeably cooler than the valley floor, and sturdy shoes for anything beyond the lake loop. The hut serves meals, but carry your own water on longer walks. Check the time of the last cabin down before you set a turnaround time. Frequently asked questions Can you walk up to Lago Tremorgio? Yes, but it is a long climb of more than 900 m from Rodi. Most visitors ride the cable car and save their energy for trails from the lake. How long is the cable car ride? About 5 minutes from Rodi to 1,830 m. Is the walk around the lake difficult? No. The path is easy and nearly flat, so children manage it. Can you stay overnight? Yes. Capanna Tremorgio sits by the lake, and Capanna Leit lies higher up at around 2,260 m.
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Lag da Breil
Breil/Brigels
Lag da Breil (German: Brigelser See) is a small lake on the eastern edge of Breil/Brigels in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, in the Surselva region. At 1,255 m above sea level and roughly 500 m long, it is known for its turquoise water and sits close enough to the village to reach on a short stroll. Where is Lag da Breil and how do you get there? The lake lies east of the built-up area of Breil/Brigels. Its name is Romansh, the language spoken in this part of Graubünden. Drivers can reach the car park and resort at the western end. On foot, start at the Postplatz in Brigels: the route heads towards the golf course, passes a playground and mini-golf, follows the shore and returns to the village. It is about 2.7 km, takes around 45 minutes and climbs only 47 m. The path suits strollers. What is there to see and do? Walking once around the water takes about 20 minutes. The south side has mini-golf and a tennis court, and you will find a playground and food stops nearby, including a kiosk at the bathing area. Most visitors stay in the village and come for a short walk. Cyclists can ride a demanding 26 km Brigels – Lag da Breil loop, while an easy 9 km route leads from Waltensburg towards the lake. Can you swim in Lag da Breil? The official Surselva tourism page says the lake's water is used to generate electricity, so bathing is not allowed, and Komoot contributors also advise against swimming. For a dip, use the separate bathing lake nearby. It is about 35 m wide and up to 1.60 m deep, with solar collectors warming the water to 20-22 degrees. It has a children's pool, a grassy area with fire pits, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a snack bar. Dogs must stay on a lead at the lake and may not enter the water. When should you visit? Summer is best: the bathing lake is open and the paths are dry. At 1,255 m, mornings can be cool even in season. Check current bathing rules with the region before you travel. Frequently asked questions How big is Lag da Breil? It is around 500 m long and lies at 1,255 m above sea level. Can you walk the lake with a stroller? Yes. The 2.7 km walk from Brigels has little climbing and is stroller-friendly. Where can you swim nearby? At the separate bathing lake in Brigels, which has heated water, a children's pool and a snack bar. Swimming in Lag da Breil itself is not allowed. How long does a walk around the lake take? About 20 minutes for the loop itself, and around 45 minutes for the walk from the village centre and back.
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Lac Brenet
Le Pont
Lac Brenet is a small lake in the Swiss canton of Vaud, right beside the village of Le Pont in the Vallée de Joux, high in the Jura mountains. Its surface lies at 1,002 m above sea level, just 200 metres north of the much bigger Lac de Joux. What is Lac Brenet? The lake covers roughly 0.8 km², stretching about 1.5 km in length and up to 500 m across, with a maximum depth of 18 m. The Vallée de Joux has no surface outlet, so for centuries the water drained away through underground fissures and resurfaced at the source of the Orbe river. Today Brenet also serves as a reservoir for the hydroelectric plant at Vallorbe, which means its level fluctuates. How does it relate to Lac de Joux? Only a narrow strip of land separates the two lakes, and Brenet sits 2 m lower. They were once linked freely by the Orbe. A study by Eawag for the canton of Vaud found that over a little more than a century Joux lost about a quarter of its volume and Brenet about a third, because hydropower operation lowered water levels by 4 and 6 m. Changed flow patterns have left the two basins completely disconnected. Fishing rules place the boundary between them at the Joux sluice gate. What can you see and do? Walk the shoreline and take in the forested slopes of the valley, far from the crowds of the big Alpine resorts. Watch birds and wildlife by the water, using Le Pont as an easy base. Fish: a 2011 inventory confirmed five historically recorded species in the two lakes: trout, perch, burbot, pike and a cyprinid. Federal law and Vaud cantonal regulations apply, so check the permit you need before you go. Pair the visit with Lac de Joux next door, the better base for a longer stay in the valley. How do you get there? Le Pont, set between the two lakes, is the most convenient starting point. The valley lies in the Swiss Jura in the heart of Vaud, and roads and rail approach it from the Vallorbe side. From the lakeside villages you reach the water on foot. When should you go? At over 1,000 m the summers are cool and the winters long, so the warmer months are the most pleasant for lakeside walks. Water levels rise and fall with reservoir management, which changes the look of the shore. Frequently asked questions Is Lac Brenet a natural lake? Yes, it is a natural lake that is also used as a reservoir for the hydroelectric plant at Vallorbe. How far is Lac Brenet from Lac de Joux? About 200 metres of land lie between them. Brenet is to the north and 2 m lower. How deep is Lac Brenet? The maximum depth is about 18 m, over a surface of roughly 0.8 km². Can you fish there? Yes, subject to federal and cantonal rules and permits. Trout, perch, burbot and pike are among the species present.
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Ausee
Wädenswil
Ausee is a small lake at the western tip of the Au peninsula in Wädenswil, on Lake Zurich in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. It sits at about 405 m above sea level and measures roughly 350 m by just under 150 m. The lake is man-made and receives its water through a canal from Lake Zurich. Do not confuse it with another Ausee in Upper Austria, which is a different place entirely. How do you get to Ausee? From Zurich main station, an S-Bahn train takes about 26 minutes to Au station. The station stands directly opposite the lake, so the walk is a matter of moments. You do not need a car. What is there to see around the lake? A path circles the water and takes about half an hour on foot. Reed beds line the shore and draw waterbirds. The surrounding land consists of restored wetlands that shelter many rare plants and animals. The route passes through a protected area, so stay on marked paths and follow local rules. The whole Au peninsula is protected. Most of it belongs to the canton of Zurich and to the Au consortium, founded in 1911 by industrialists from Wädenswil. They bought the middle part of the hill together with the inn, which stopped the peninsula from being built over. It has stayed open to visitors ever since. Cantonal documents describe it as the largest nature reserve in the town. What else is on the Au peninsula? Schloss Au, a villa first built by Hans Rudolf Werdmüller in the seventeenth century, was rebuilt in neo-baroque style in 1928-29. On the shore of Lake Zurich lies Wädenswil-Vorder Au, a Stone Age lake-dwelling settlement. It is one of the 56 Swiss sites in the UNESCO World Heritage listing of prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps. Finds date from the transition between the Pfyn and Horgen cultures and from the Bell Beaker culture. When should you visit? Spring is the best season for birdwatching, though autumn and summer also work well. A spotting scope is not necessary because the shoreline is close. The walk fits easily into a day trip from Zurich. Frequently asked questions Is Ausee a natural lake? No. It was created artificially and is fed by a canal from Lake Zurich. How long is the walk around the lake? About half an hour at an easy pace. How do I get there from Zurich? Take the S-Bahn to Au station, a ride of about 26 minutes. The station faces the lake. Can I watch birds here? Yes. The reeds around the water are bird habitat, and spring is the best time.
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Bettmersee
Betten
Bettmersee is a small alpine lake above the village of Betten, within the municipality of Bettmeralp in the Swiss canton of Valais. It covers 5.5 hectares at 2,006 metres above sea level. It sits inside the Aletsch Arena and the UNESCO Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch World Heritage area, and ranks among the easiest lakes to reach on foot in the region. Where is Bettmersee? The lake lies just above the Bettmeralp settlement, on a sunny terrace high over the Rhône valley. Bettmeralp is car-free, so the surroundings feel quiet and strictly pedestrian. From the village centre, the walk to the water takes roughly ten minutes. How do you get to Bettmersee? Take the train to the valley station of the Bettmeralp cable car, with connections from Brig and Oberwald, then ride the gondola up to about 1,923 m. Drivers can leave the car at the valley station car park, which charges a fee. Cars are not allowed in Bettmeralp itself. What can you do at the lake? An easy loop path circles the water and works with a pushchair. The shore has a playground and a natural swimming pool, which makes it a popular stop for families. Mountain scenery typical of the Valais Alps frames the walk. For a longer outing, a circuit links Bettmersee with the Alpstallung alpine stables. It starts and ends at the Bettmeralp upper cable car station and involves about 131 m of climbing. Serious hikers can continue toward Bettmerhorn and the Märjelensee along the Great Aletsch Glacier, but that is a separate, demanding day out. When should you visit? In summer the lake suits strolls and picnics, and on warm days a dip in the natural pool. In winter a groomed, signposted path leads around Bettmersee, one of several winter walking routes nearby. The landscape changes with the season, while the approach stays just as short. Frequently asked questions How long is the walk from Bettmeralp village? About ten minutes from the village centre. Can you walk around the lake with a pushchair? Yes, the loop path is suitable for pushchairs. Is Bettmersee good for children? Yes. There is a playground and a natural swimming pool by the lake. Can you drive to the lake? No. Bettmeralp is car-free. Park at the valley station, where parking is paid, and take the gondola up.
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Oberblegisee
Glarus Süd
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.
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Gräppelensee
Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann
Gräppelensee is a small mountain lake in the municipality of Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann, in the Toggenburg valley of the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. It sits in a side valley behind the Spisslen ridge, between the Toggenburg and the Säntis massif, with the seven peaks of the Churfirsten rising above the area. The lake lies at roughly 47.211° N, 9.288° E. Where is Gräppelensee and what makes it special? The lake belongs to the Gräppelen landscape, which is listed in the Swiss federal inventory of mire landscapes (object no. 387). The protected area covers over 438 hectares at around 1,415 m above sea level. The inventory describes fens as the defining feature of the area, and says no other mire landscape of this type in the Alpine foothills is so strongly shaped by them. The peat formed on an impermeable layer of moraine, and the vegetation is mostly sedge meadows and wet grassland in good condition. For a visitor that means open, quiet scenery: water, marsh and pasture, with mountains all around. What can you see from the lake? The views take in the Churfirsten, whose summits range from Selun (2,205 m) to Chäserrugg (2,262 m), plus the Säntis and the Altmann. It is an easy place to get all of them into a single photo. The area is protected, so keep to the marked paths and stay off the wet meadows. How do you get there? On foot. The easiest hike to the lake passes the Thur waterfalls (Thurwasserfälle). A popular loop from Unterwasser, starting at the Iltios top station, is about 12.5 km with 470 m of climbing according to Komoot, with views of the Säntis. By bike. The ride up is demanding. From Unterwasser or Alt St. Johann there are ramps close to 20 percent, and the routes from Alt St. Johann and from Wildmannlisloch are rated hard. In winter. The area is described as suitable for snowshoe tours, which start from the nearby Toggenburg resorts. When should you visit? Summer gives the most comfortable trail conditions, with green pasture and fen. In winter the area turns into snowshoe terrain. Check when the lifts at Unterwasser and Wildhaus are running, since they shorten the approach, and plan most of a day for the longer loop. What else is nearby? The Schwendi lakes (Schwendiseen) above Unterwasser lie in the same kind of mire landscape. An easy nature trail leads to them from the Iltios top station in Unterwasser or from the Oberdorf top station in Wildhaus, and the full outing takes 4 to 8 hours. You can combine it with a visit to Gräppelensee. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Gräppelensee? There are no bathing facilities. It is a small body of water in a protected fen, so the main draw is the scenery and the walk. Is the approach difficult? The hike past the Thur waterfalls is easy. The bike routes from the valley are harder, with climbs near 20 percent. Which peaks can you see from the lake? The Churfirsten (from Selun to Chäserrugg), the Säntis and the Altmann. Can you visit in winter? Yes, the area is described as a destination for snowshoe tours.
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Lützelsee
Feldbach
Lützelsee is a small lake in the municipality of Hombrechtikon, canton of Zurich, right beside the village of Feldbach and a few kilometres from Lake Zurich. It sits on the Pfannenstiel plateau at roughly 519 metres above sea level and covers about 13 hectares. It makes an easy half-day out from Zurich, with water, meadows, birdlife and a walking loop around the shore. What kind of lake is it? Glaciers shaped the basin, and the surrounding molasse landscape counts as a geotope of national importance in Switzerland. The lake has been under protection since 1966. Today the area is a nature and landscape reserve of national rank and an important breeding ground for many bird species, with storks nesting nearby. The Uetziker Ried moorland and the small Seeweidsee lie next door. What is there to see? A tiny hamlet, also called Lützelsee, stands by the water and is listed in the federal ISOS inventory of protected settlements. Its highlights are two 18th-century winegrowers' houses from the Lake Zurich shore: the Menzihaus (1733) and the Hürlimannhaus (built 1703 to 1709). The shore path crosses meadows and skirts reed beds, so binoculars are worth packing. How long is the walk around the lake? The circuit is about 3 km and takes 45 to 60 minutes at an easy pace. A popular starting point is the car park at Lutikon. For a longer outing, a 7.4 km trail graded T1 runs from Grüningen via the Botanical Garden and Lützelsee down to Feldbach on Lake Zurich, in about 1 hour 50 minutes. The terrain is gentle throughout. Can you swim here? Yes. The lido (Badi) has a jetty and floating platform, 1 m and 2 m diving boards, a children's paddling pool, a playground, a barbecue area and boat hire. Swimming is limited to a buoyed zone. To protect wildlife, inflatables, SUP boards, drones and model boats are not allowed. The season runs roughly from 1 May to 20 September, with opening from morning until sunset. Water quality is regularly rated good. When should you go? Summer suits swimming, but weekends bring crowds. For quiet and birdwatching, pick a weekday, spring or early autumn. The path stays open in winter, although the lido does not operate. Frequently asked questions Where is Lützelsee? In Hombrechtikon, canton of Zurich, north of the town centre and close to Feldbach on Lake Zurich. How long does the lakeside walk take? About 3 km, so 45 to 60 minutes at a relaxed pace. Is swimming allowed? Yes, in the buoyed area at the lido during the summer season. Inflatables, SUP boards and drones are banned. Is the lake protected? Yes. Protection dates from 1966, and the surroundings are recognised as a nature and landscape area of national importance.
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Lago di Muzzano
Muzzano
Lago di Muzzano is a small lake in the municipality of Muzzano, in the Swiss canton of Ticino, right next to Lugano. It covers roughly 22 to 23 hectares and is a nature reserve rather than a swimming spot. Visitors come for quiet walks, birdwatching and amphibians, only a short distance from the city. Where is Lago di Muzzano? The lake sits in the hills around Lugano. Its shores border three municipalities: Muzzano, Sorengo and Collina d'Oro. It drains into Lake Lugano, which is a separate and much larger body of water. How did the lake form? It dates from the end of the last glaciation, in the spot where the Ticino and Adda glaciers met. Today it is one of the region's more valuable wetlands. Pro Natura Svizzera bought the site in 1945 and has protected it as a reserve ever since. What will you see? Wet habitats – reed beds, damp meadows and wet woodland surround the open water. Observation platform – lets you watch plants and animals without disturbing them. Kingfisher nesting wall – an artificial bank built for these birds. Lakeside path – marked on the Pro Natura map as the "Passeggiata del Laghetto". A fishermen's house stands by the outflow. The reserve is an important amphibian breeding site. The common toad is the most numerous, and in spring volunteers help it cross the road on its way to the water. If you visit then, drive slowly and watch your step. Does the lake have a natural history of its own? Yes. A water chestnut variety, Trapa natans var. muzzanensis, once grew here and nowhere else. It disappeared in the late 1960s. Conservation later turned to restoring habitats: under a 2005 management plan, new reed beds and ponds were created in the Campagna area, and the cantonal authorities report that the planned measures were completed. What condition is it in today? The reserve struggles with excess phosphorus, which entered the water from wastewater and farm runoff. Hot weather encourages algae blooms that block light and harm aquatic life. Treat it as you would any reserve: stay out of the water, do not feed animals and keep to the paths. When should you visit? Spring brings amphibian migration and birdsong. Summer and early autumn offer good light for photos over the water. Go early in the morning or toward evening, when wildlife is most active. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Lago di Muzzano? No. It is a nature reserve and the water has quality problems. The lake is for walking and wildlife watching. Is it the same as Lake Lugano? No. Muzzano is a small, separate lake that drains into the far larger Lake Lugano. What is the highlight for nature lovers? The observation platform, the kingfisher wall and the amphibians, above all the common toad during the spring migration. How long should a visit take? A relaxed walk with some watching usually takes one to two hours, depending on how long you stay at the platform.
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Egelsee
Berno
Egelsee in Bern, known locally as Egelmösli, is a small pond in the south-east of the Swiss capital. It sits inside a park that stretches as far as the Zentrum Paul Klee, making it a quiet green stop within the city. Where is Egelsee and how big is it? The lake lies within the City of Bern, in the canton of Bern, at an elevation of roughly 550 m (coordinates 46°56′40″N 7°27′54″E). Its surface covers about 1.5 hectares and it reaches a maximum depth of 3.4 m. The Wysslochbach stream feeds it, and the catchment spans around 0.5 square kilometres. Think of it as a neighbourhood pond rather than a half-day destination. What is there to see? The park around the water is the draw: lawns, trees and paths circling a calm surface. Because the park runs towards the Zentrum Paul Klee, a stroll here pairs naturally with a visit to the museum dedicated to the painter. Mostly local residents come here, so the atmosphere stays peaceful. Can you ice-skate on Egelsee? Sometimes. In sufficiently cold winters the water freezes solidly enough to form a natural rink, which Bernese locals know as the Egelmösli ice rink. It depends on the weather, so check conditions before bringing your skates. When should you go? Spring, summer and early autumn suit a walk, when the park is green and daylight is long. In winter, visit after a hard frost if you hope to see the pond iced over. An hour is plenty to look around; to stretch the outing, add a walking route towards the Zentrum Paul Klee or other trails in south-eastern Bern. How to fit it into a trip Egelsee works well as a break away from the old town: spend the morning in the centre, then head east for a quiet green interlude. Wear comfortable shoes and combine it with the museum if art is on your list. Hiking apps list routes in the area, and Bern's public transport timetable will show how to reach the eastern districts. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Egelsee? Sources describe it as a place for walking, relaxing and winter skating. Nothing points to a bathing area, so don't plan on swimming. How big is the lake? About 1.5 hectares in surface area, up to 3.4 m deep, at roughly 550 m above sea level. Is Egelsee close to the Zentrum Paul Klee? Yes. The park around the pond extends to the Paul Klee centre, so the two are easy to combine in one walk. Does the lake freeze in winter? In some years, yes. When winter is cold enough, the surface becomes a natural ice rink.
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Oeschinen Lake
Kandersteg
Oeschinen (Oeschinensee) is a mountain lake above the village of Kandersteg in the canton of Bern, set in the Bernese Alps. At 1,578 metres above sea level, its turquoise water framed by steep rock walls is one of the most photographed sights in the Bernese Oberland. What kind of lake is it? Oeschinensee covers roughly 1.1 km² and reaches 56 metres at its deepest point. It is an oligotrophic lake, meaning it carries few nutrients, which explains the clarity of the water. Mountain streams feed it, and there is no surface outflow: the water drains away underground. Prehistoric landslides blocked the valley and created the basin. Since 2007 the lake has belonged to the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. How do you get to Oeschinensee? Start in Kandersteg, which you can reach by train or car. A gondola lift runs from the village to an upper station, and from there an easy path leads to the shore in a short stroll. If you prefer to walk the whole way, a forest trail climbs from the village; it takes noticeably longer and asks for decent fitness. Many visitors ride up and walk back down to combine both options. What can you see and do there? Walk along the shore and photograph the lake against the cliffs above it. Relax on the pebbly beaches or stop at the lakeside mountain restaurants. Hire a rowing boat during the summer season. Follow longer trails around the lake if you have mountain experience. Take prepared winter walks when snow covers the area. When should you visit? The most comfortable period runs from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and the facilities are open. In summer the water shows its most intense colour, but midday brings crowds, so an early start gives you quieter conditions and better light for photos. In autumn the forests in the valley change colour. Mountain weather shifts quickly, so pack a warm layer and sturdy footwear even on a sunny day. Frequently asked questions Where is Oeschinensee? Above Kandersteg, in the Swiss canton of Bern, in the Bernese Oberland. How deep is the lake? The maximum depth is 56 metres and the surface area is about 1.1 km². Does the lake have an outlet? It has no surface outflow. Mountain streams feed it and the water leaves underground. Is the lake a UNESCO site? Yes. Since 2007 it has been part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch World Heritage Site. Can you reach it without a hard climb? Yes. The gondola from Kandersteg shortens the ascent, and an easy walking path leads from the upper station to the lake.
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Daubensee
Leukerbad
Daubensee is a high-alpine lake at the Gemmi Pass above Leukerbad in the Swiss canton of Valais. It sits at roughly 2,200 m above sea level and covers 69 hectares, making it one of the larger lakes in this part of the Bernese Alps. Bare rock walls frame a wide, treeless basin. Where is Daubensee? The lake lies on the route between Leukerbad and Kandersteg, just below the Gemmi Pass, which links Valais with the canton of Bern. Its coordinates are about 46.41°N, 7.62°E. With almost no trees around the shore, views open up in every direction, and the weather can turn quickly. It suits visitors who want real mountain scenery without a technical climb. How do you get to Daubensee? The easiest way is the cable car from Leukerbad up to the Gemmi Pass. The upper station stands around 2,350 m, higher than the lake, so the walk to the water is a gentle descent. You can also hike up a secured path from Leukerbad in about two hours. Cable car timetables depend on the season, so check them before you go. What can you do at the lake? The classic outing is the loop around Daubensee. Depending on the variant it measures about 6 to 8 km and takes two to two and a half hours, with 140 to 175 m of ascent in total. The track is gentle and manageable for most walkers with reasonable fitness. For a longer day, continue over the Gemmi Pass to Kandersteg: about 8.5 km and three hours, passing the lake on the way. In winter the frozen surface and surrounding flats are used for cross-country skiing. What is the Shepherd Festival? Every year on the last Sunday of July, a Shepherd Festival takes place at Daubensee. It is a local tradition tied to sheep farming in the high pastures. Expect more visitors than usual if you come on that date. When should you visit? Summer and early autumn are best, when the trails are clear of snow. Note that the lake is shallow and drains underground in late autumn, so from November it may be empty. Snowmelt refills it in spring. At over 2,000 m, pack a warm layer, sunglasses and sun protection, even in July. Frequently asked questions Is Daubensee in Switzerland? Yes. It lies in the canton of Valais at the Gemmi Pass, close to the spa village of Leukerbad. How long does the walk around the lake take? Usually two to two and a half hours, depending on the route you choose and your pace. Does the lake hold water all year? No. The shallow lake empties through underground outflow in late autumn and refills with snowmelt in spring. In winter it freezes. Do I have to climb from the valley on foot? No. The Leukerbad cable car takes you to the Gemmi Pass, from where the lake is a short, easy descent. Hiking up is optional. Is it the same as Oeschinensee? No. Oeschinensee is on the Kandersteg side, while Daubensee lies at the Gemmi Pass. You can visit both in one regional trip, but they are separate lakes.
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Gerzensee
Mühledorf BE
Gerzensee is a small pre-Alpine lake in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, just a few minutes' drive from Mühledorf (BE). It sits in the municipality of Gerzensee, in the Bern-Mittelland district, and the village takes its name from the water. Since 1965 the lake and its surroundings have been a cantonal nature reserve. What is the lake like? The surface covers about 25 hectares at roughly 603 m above sea level. The deepest point reaches 11 m, and at normal water levels the average depth is around 8.5 m. Reed beds line the shore and a small island lies in the water. Hiking guides describe it as one of the medium-sized lakes of the Swiss foothills, with views toward the Bernese Alps. What can you do here? Gerzensee suits a quiet walk and some birdwatching along the reeds. Easy walking and cycling routes link the nearby villages of the Gürbe valley area. Bring binoculars and a camera: early mornings, when mist hangs on the water and the peaks show in the distance, give the best light. Two practical points. The path does not circle the whole lake, because part of the shoreline is private. And a motorway runs close by, so traffic noise can reach the water's edge. Why is the lake protected? A 1965 decision by the Bern cantonal government placed the lake and its setting under protection so the landscape would stay as it is. The reserve has two zones. The inner zone (A) takes in the open water, the reed-covered banks and the island. The outer zone (B) wraps around it on the land side. In practice, stay on the paths, keep out of the reeds and leave the birds undisturbed. How do you get to Gerzensee? The lake lies between Bern and Thun, close to the Gürbe valley. By car it is a short drive from Bern. By public transport, travel to nearby Belp or Kirchdorf and continue by regional bus or on foot. Check connections on the SBB journey planner. When should you visit? In spring and early summer the reeds are green and birdlife is busiest. Autumn often brings morning mist and the clearest views of the Alps. Winter is calm and nearly empty. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Gerzensee? The lake lies in a nature reserve and access to the water is limited. Map users point to a swimming area in nearby Kirchdorf. Check the current rules on the Gerzensee municipality website. How deep is the lake? Up to 11 m, with an average around 8.5 m. The surface area is about 25 ha. Can you walk all the way around it? Not fully. Part of the shore is private, so the route follows nearby roads and paths. Is Gerzensee a lake or a village? Both. The name belongs to the lake and to the municipality in the canton of Bern that is named after it.
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Türlersee
Hausen am Albis
Türlersee is a small lake at Hausen am Albis in the Swiss canton of Zurich, a short trip south of the city. It sits at 643 m above sea level in the Albis hills, right where the municipalities of Hausen am Albis and Aeugst meet. The water covers about 0.49 km², stretching roughly 1.4 km in length and about 500 m across. It makes an easy day out from Zurich for walkers, swimmers and anglers. What is Türlersee? The lake belongs to the Affoltern district, the area locally known as the Säuliamt. Its reed belts and moorland forests are protected, and the lake itself is listed in Switzerland's federal inventory of landscapes and natural monuments of national importance. The flat ground near Vollenweid was once covered by a larger lake. What can you do here? The classic outing is the loop around the shore. The route from Hausen am Albis is about 7.2 km, easy going, and crosses boggy meadows and forest edge. On the northern bank you will find the lido and a campsite. Entry to the beach is charged in summer, so check the current price before you go. Anglers need a permit and may fish from the bank or a boat; pike and whitefish live in the lake. For a longer day, hikers can climb the Albis ridge from Hausen via Albishorn and Hochwacht, drop down to the lake, and continue to Aeugst, a total of around 12 km. The Knonaueramt trail also starts in Hausen am Albis and heads on to Affoltern am Albis. How do you get there? Public transport is the simplest option. ZVV buses serve Hausen am Albis, and the lakeshore is a short walk away. By car, drive from Zurich towards Hausen or Aeugst and walk in from the parking area. When should you visit? Summer suits swimming and camping. Spring and autumn are quieter, and the reeds and woods look their best. In winter the paths can be wet, so wear sturdy footwear. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Türlersee? Yes. A lido operates beside the campsite, and there are other accessible spots along the shore. The lido charges admission in season. How long does the lake loop take? The easy route from Hausen am Albis is about 7.2 km, so allow around two hours at a relaxed pace. Do you need a permit to fish? Yes. Fishing requires a permit, and the local Türlerseefischer association provides the details. Is the lake protected? Yes. The water, reed belts and moorland forests are under protection, and the landscape is on Switzerland's national inventory. Stay on the marked paths and keep out of the reeds.
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Pfäffikersee
Pfäffikon
Lake Pfäffikersee sits in the canton of Zürich, Switzerland, right beside the town of Pfäffikon (Pfäffikon ZH). The water measures roughly 2.5 km from end to end and 1.3 km across at its middle. It combines an easy lakeside walk, protected wetland and some of the oldest traces of human settlement in the region. The lake lies at about 47.35° N, 8.78° E. How did the lake form? The basin dates to the end of the last ice age. A glacial moraine blocked the natural outflow towards Winterthur in the north, so meltwater collected behind it and the lake was born. It is a textbook glacial landscape that you can explore without any climbing, within easy reach of Zürich. What is there to see? A path circles the shore and is popular with both walkers and cyclists. Going all the way round makes a flat, relaxed outing that suits a half day and needs no special gear. Much of the surrounding land is protected, including the Robenhauser Ried reed and bog area. Stick to the marked route here: the wetland is home to birds and marsh plants, and the paths are laid out to protect them. The Wetzikon–Robenhausen pile-dwelling site The shore holds the prehistoric lake-dwelling site of Wetzikon–Robenhausen. It was discovered and studied by Jakob Messikommer (1828–1917), a local researcher whose fieldwork made the place well known among archaeologists. Today it is one of the sites in the serial UNESCO World Heritage listing Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps. The remains lie buried in the ground, so a visit is more about understanding the history of the shoreline than about standing before dramatic ruins. Roman traces In Roman times a road ran past the lake, linking the settlement of Centum Prata (modern Kempraten on the upper basin of Lake Zürich) with the Rhine by way of Vitudurum (Oberwinterthur) and Tasgetium (Eschenz). To protect this important route, the Romans built the fort of Irgenhausen. Anyone who likes pairing a walk with history can stretch the day to include it. How do you get there? The lake lies in the Zürcher Oberland, around the municipalities of Pfäffikon, Wetzikon and Seegräben. Regional rail connects the area with Zürich, and the stations at Pfäffikon ZH and Wetzikon are the usual starting points for reaching the shore. If you drive, check the parking rules near the water, because spaces fill up on sunny weekends. When should you visit? Summer and early autumn suit walking and swimming, while spring brings the liveliest birdlife in the reeds. Outside the main season the lake is quiet and the path nearly empty, which appeals to anyone after peace. Frequently asked questions Which canton is Pfäffikersee in? Zürich, next to Pfäffikon ZH. Do not confuse it with Pfäffikon in the canton of Schwyz on Lake Zürich. How big is the lake? About 2.5 km long and 1.3 km wide at its middle. Can you walk around the whole lake? Yes. A trail encircles the water and is used by both walkers and cyclists. What is the UNESCO connection? The prehistoric pile-dwelling site Wetzikon–Robenhausen is part of the serial World Heritage listing Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps.
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Golzernsee
Silenen
Golzernsee (also spelled Golzerensee) is a small mountain lake near the hamlet of Golzern, in the municipality of Silenen, canton of Uri, Switzerland. It covers about 5.7 hectares and lies at roughly 1,400 m above sea level in the Maderanertal. Getting there is easy and the setting is quiet, which makes it a favourite with families and walkers. How do you get to Golzernsee? Take the train to Erstfeld, then the postbus to the village of Bristen. The valley station of the Bristen–Golzern cable car stands just beyond the village. The cabin lifts you to Golzern at about 1,395 m, and from there a nearly flat dirt road leads to the water in around 25 minutes. The lift also serves local farmers, so check the current timetable before you travel. What is there to see at the lake? Alpine meadows and the slopes of the Maderanertal surround the water, with the Windgällen massif rising above the valley. In summer the lake warms up enough to count among the warmer mountain lakes in the area, and swimming is a popular pastime. Anglers fish for brown trout, rainbow trout and perch, as the lake is a well-known fishing spot. Food is available by the shore, so you do not have to carry a full picnic. Which hikes start from Golzern? The classic loop runs from the cable car past the Windgällenhütte, down the Trittweg path to Hotel Maderanertal, then along the Chärstelenbach stream back to Bristen. Plan on about 5.5 hours; parts are tiring, but the scenery repays the effort. A shorter option is a stroll across the Golzernalp to the lake, then a ride down on the cable car. Less keen walkers can stay by the water while the rest of the group continues. When is the best time to visit? Hiking season here runs roughly from June to September. Summer is warmest and best for swimming. Bring sturdy shoes, sun protection and an extra layer, because mountain weather can turn quickly. Frequently asked questions Can you swim in Golzernsee? Yes. In summer the water is warm enough for many visitors to take a dip, though it can feel cool after bad weather. Is fishing possible? The lake is a known fishing location with brown trout, rainbow trout and perch. Check local rules and permits before you fish. How long is the walk from the cable car to the lake? About 25 minutes along a gentle dirt road from the upper station at Golzern. Can you drive to Golzern? Access by road is difficult. The usual route is the Bristen cable car, reached by postbus from Erstfeld.
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Lake Davos
Davos
Davosersee (Lake Davos) is a small natural lake at about 1,560 m above sea level, just north of the town of Davos in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. A flat path circles the shore, and the north side gives a broad view down the valley. What is Davosersee? The lake covers roughly 0.59 km² and reaches a maximum depth of 54 m, which is considerable for such a compact body of water. It formed when a rockslide from the Totalp slopes in the Parsenn area dammed streams that once drained toward the Prättigau. What you see today is the remnant of a larger lake, most of which gradually filled with sediment carried by mountain streams. The lake is fed by mountain creeks, among them the Flüelabach and the Totalpbach, plus springs from the surrounding slopes. What is the lake used for today? Davosersee works as a storage reservoir for hydropower. Its water no longer flows to the Landwasser river. It is diverted to the Landquart near Klosters and used by the power stations at Klosters and Küblis in the Prättigau valley. The lake once supplied ice as well: a photograph survives of ice harvesting on the frozen surface in the winter of 1903/1904. What can you do here? The main draw is the Davosersee Rundweg, a loop around the shore. It is about 5 km long on a gravel surface, passing through woodland in some stretches and open ground in others. Allow around one hour and fifteen minutes at a relaxed pace, with no real climbs. The view across the water and down the valley is best from the north side. You will find plenty of quiet spots for a picnic along the way. For a coffee break, the Seecafé at Hotel Seebüel is the place to stop. When should you go? The loop is easiest in the snow-free months, when the whole path is open. Depending on season and weather, sections can be blocked or interrupted, so check current notices on davos.ch before you set out. In winter the area follows the rhythm of the ski season, with the Parsenn slopes nearby. Frequently asked questions How deep is Davosersee? The maximum depth is 54 m, over a surface of about 0.59 km². How long does the walk around the lake take? The loop is about 5 km and takes roughly an hour and a quarter. The terrain is flat. Is the lake natural? Yes, it formed naturally after a rockslide from Totalp. It now also serves as a reservoir for hydroelectric plants. Where does the water flow? Not into the Landwasser. It is channeled to the Landquart at Klosters and used to generate electricity. Is there food nearby? The Seecafé at Hotel Seebüel sits by the route, and there are many spots along the path for your own picnic.
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Seewlisee
Silenen
Seewlisee is a mountain lake in the municipality of Silenen, canton of Uri, in central Switzerland. It sits at 2,028 m above sea level, covers about 9 hectares and lies directly beneath the Gross Windgällen, whose rock faces dominate the view across the water. It is one of the best-known day-hike goals around the Maderanertal valley. Where is Seewlisee? The lake is in the Uri Alps at roughly 46.81° N, 8.71° E. Hikes usually begin on the Silenen side, near Bristen and the lower Maderanertal. Don't confuse it with Seelisberg, a village on Lake Uri that lies far lower and has a different character altogether. How do you get to Seewlisee? The most common route starts at the upper station of the Silenen–Chilcherbergen cable car. From there the lake is about 5.3 km away, and the walk takes 2–3 hours including short breaks. The path climbs across alpine pastures and gets fairly steep, so wear proper hiking boots and carry enough water. You can also make it a through-hike. From the lake a trail descends towards Sittlisalp (roughly 7 km and 3 hours), where another cable car takes you down to the valley. The full outing comes to about 12 km. What will you see? A clear alpine lake framed by high meadows and rocky slopes. The Gross Windgällen massif rising behind it, one of the signature peaks of this corner of Uri. Views down into the Maderanertal, regarded as one of the wilder valleys of central Switzerland. Quiet surroundings, since the lake is far from the big ski resorts. An alpine farm nearby serves food and offers beds, though you need to book ahead. Is it part of a long-distance trail? Yes. Seewlisee is the starting point of stage 12 of the Alpenkranz Luzern, the long circuit around Lucerne. The stage from the lake via Kilcherberg to Golzern covers about 10.6 km and takes around 4 hours. The start is exposed and the path towards Kilcherberge is very steep. Along the way you cross a 48-metre suspension bridge, and the stage ends at the mouth of the Maderanertal. When should you go? At over 2,000 m, the hiking season runs from summer to early autumn, and snow patches may linger on the trail earlier in the year. Set off in the morning: afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains, and the ascent and return take several hours. Check the cable car timetable before you go, since it shortens both the climb and the descent. Frequently asked questions How high is Seewlisee? 2,028 m above sea level, with a surface of about 9 ha. How long is the walk from the Silenen–Chilcherbergen cable car? About 2–3 hours one way, over roughly 5.3 km. Can you descend a different way? Yes. A popular option is the descent to Sittlisalp with its cable car, or the Alpenkranz stage towards Golzern. Is there food and accommodation? A nearby alpine farm offers meals and overnight stays with advance booking.
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