3 Must see mountain lakes in Switzerland
Planning a post-COVID-19 trip to Switzerland and still unsure which mountain lakes to visit?
Even though I have been living in Switzerland for about five years now, there are still so many places I have yet to explore. The only upside to the coronavirus pandemic was finally having enough time to travel within Switzerland.
While a lot of people love to visit Switzerland in winter during the ski season, I definitely prefer the summer season. Going for a hike and exploring mountain ranges in summer is much more comfortable without having to wear tons of clothes.
Switzerland might be best known for its Swiss Alps but I can assure you that there are plenty of scenic mountain lakes that you may not have heard of.
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1.Seealpsee
This beautiful mountain lake is one of the most visited lakes in Switzerland and a popular day trip destination in the Appenzell district. It is often combined with a hike to one of the most famous guesthouses in Switzerland (Aescher-Wildkirchli).
How to get there:
Take the train or drive to Wasserauen by car, this is where your hike will begin. I decided to hike up to the famous cliff guesthouse first, before continuing to Seealpsee.
Be aware that the trail towards Ebenalp, where the guesthouse is situated, has steep hills. Therefore the hike up is not an easy one, but should be manageable by anyone who is moderately active. I took breaks in-between and admired the scenery around me and up till now I don’t regret my decision to hike up to Ebenalp. The experience as well as the stunning view that awaits you is definitely worth every drop of sweat. If you are short on time and don’t mind spending a few extra Swiss Francs you can also take the cable car ride up. I however would still advice you to challenge yourself and try the hike up. The hike from Wasserauen up to Ebenalp will take you about 1.45 hours (including breaks).
Guesthouse Aescher Wildkirchli
Along your trail to Elpenalp there is much more to be found than stunning views. The Guesthouse Aescher Wildkirchli along the path is the perfect stop to regain your energy.
Order a delicious Swiss cheese tart and a refreshing drink while admiring the scenery. It is said that the Aescher has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists for centuries and after I enjoyed my lunch with a view at this breath-taking mountain restaurant myself, I can definitely relate.
The trail from Aescher to the beautiful Seealpsee takes about 40 minutes. The hike down to the lake is nowhere near as challenging as the first hike up.
TIP: As is tends to get really hot in summer, don't forget to pack a change of clothes.
Also, sturdy shoes with thread should be considered. If you don’t have any, make sure to wear comfortable sneakers to ensure a good grip on your hike.
Once you have reached your destination you can relax your mind and take in the sensational Seealpsee lake view. Not only can you enjoy a stroll around the lake, but you can also rent a rowboat.
If you are fond of cheese you can purchase delicious cheese from a little local factory just near the lakeside.
For all my coffee lovers, do make sure to have a coffee on the patio of the Seealpsee guesthouse that overlooks the beautiful lake. You may even decide to rent a room and stay a night.
With this hike you perfectly combine two major attractions in Switzerlands Appenzell district.
2.TRÜBSEE
Trübsee is another beautiful mountain lake that lies at the foot of the famous Titlis Mountain in Engelberg. Trübsee is an ideal destination for a short day trip. A scenic rowboat ride on the lake will surely make your visit unforgettable.
How to get there:
The best way to get to Trübsee is by car. Drive to Engelberg and head straight to the cable car station Titlis. At the station you will have the possibility to purchase your ticket. A round-trip ticket costs approximately 36 CHF. If you decide to take the train instead, get off at Engelberg station. Then take an eight-minute walk towards the cable car station.
Rent a rowboat and enjoy the peace and tranquility of gliding through Trübsee. The boats are free for you to use, however it has become a common practice to drop a small donation of 10 CHF per hour towards their upkeep. To do so, simply place your donation in the box on the jetty.
Close by you have the possibility to have lunch or coffee while overlooking the lake. The mountain range view is truly every nature lovers dream. Note that the entire lake can be covered in under an hour by foot.
TIP: If you are on a tight schedule and you would like to see as much as you can when visiting Engelberg, make sure to continue your cable car ride up to visit mount Titlis. Mount Titlis is one of the major highlights in the region.
The perfect way to end your trip is by booking an outdoor whey bath. I was finally able to cross this off my bucket list. Taking a whey bath and admiring a breath-taking panorama of mountaintops and untouched alpine beauty was definitely an experience no Spa can compare to.
TRAVEL tIP: If you would like to know more about booking an outdoor whey bath you can leave me a message in the comment section and I will gladly assist you and provide you with all details necessary.
3.OESCHINENSEE
If you would like to experience hiking in the mountains of Switzerland, Oeschinensee has some of the best Mountain lake views.
There are different trails to Oeschinensee to choose from. If you want to challenge yourself I would recommend combining your day trip with a short work out session and choosing the trail that is a bit steeper. If you are someone who is not keen on hikes choose the trail that is mostly flat with very little elevation change.
How to get there:
Personally, it was very convenient for me to drive up by car. I highly recommend hiring a car if you plan a trip around Switzerland. Due to the fact that train tickets are quite expensive, if you don’t own half-fare travel cards.
However, Switzerland’s public transport networks are extremely well connected throughout the country. Therefore, if you do plan on taking the train, get off at Kandersteg station and take the bus 242. The Bus will take you directly to the cable car station. From there you can start your hike up to Oeschinensee.
Once you’ve made your way up to the lake you will find lots of activities to chose from. From fishing to taking the rowboat on the lake, make sure to also take a mountain coaster ride. Don’t be mistaken; this mountain coaster ride is quite famous in Switzerland and not just fun for children.
In case you are planning to stay overnight, there are a few cosy mountain lodges to book as well.
Even though you have the possibility of having lunch or simply a coffee at Oeschinensee, it is also known as a great picnic spot. Families often gather with their own picnic baskets while enjoying the picturesque views of the mountain range.
Make sure not to miss out on the beautiful flower fields when hiking back down. Take in all the beauty that the Kandersteg region has to offer.
Good to know: Oeschinensee is one of few lakes where camping is not permitted.
Switzerland at a glance
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