Switzerland is a country of magnificent mountains, comfortable chalets and most spectacularly of all, sparkling lakes that seem taken right out of a fairytale. These sparkling lakes are not only natural beauties, they are places to relax, discover and have fun from peaceful boat cruises to adrenaline pumping alpine hikes. Whether you travel alone or with your loved ones, you will find each kind of traveler an unforgettable experience at Swiss lakes.
Whether you’re planning your next getaway, a well-curated Switzerland Tour is the best way to explore the most beautiful lakes of the country. With every region having its own special charm whether it’s tranquil valleys or dramatic alpine backdrops you will fall in love with Switzerland one lake at a time. Let us look at nine of the most magical Swiss lakes you must visit this year.
Here are the 9 Must Visit Swiss Lakes This Year
1. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
Lake Geneva straddles the French-Swiss border and is bordered by elegant cities of Geneva, Lausanne and Montreux. Its wide crescent-shaped water body is ideal for scenic cruises, walks and vineyard visits in lakeside. You can also visit the iconic Chillon Castle, medieval, which is nicely located on its shores or get waterfront dining with a gorgeous view of the Alps behind.
2. Lake Lucerne
Located centrally in Switzerland, Lake Lucerne is one of the most photographed lakes in the country – and for good reason. The lake is surrounded by great peaks and little villages and possesses a dreamlike ambiance. A boat cruise here is something to remember, especially if you combine it with a ride on the cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus or Rigi. Its storybook setting makes it a must see for nature and charm lovers.
3. Lake Brienz
Lake Brienz, whose turquoise water is bright, appears as a secret paradise of the Bernese Oberland. It’s perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding or lounging at the shore. Close by attractions such as the Giessbach Waterfalls and the Brienz Rothorn steam railway make it a full day destination. The serene atmosphere of this lake makes it the ideal destination for those tourists who want to get away from the tourist crowds and reconnect with nature.
4. Lake Thun
Lake Thun with its deep blue waters and fairytale surroundings is a paradise for scenic cruises and cultural experiences. Interlaced with castles, pretty villages and great mountain views, it is a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. There is also the medieval Thun Castle to visit or enjoy your lakeside lunch with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks looming in the distance – a truly picture perfect destination.
5. Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is a perfect place of relaxation for residents and tourists who do not want to leave the hustle of city life. Whether you love paddle boarding, or you prefer to lie in the sun at public beaches or hop on a boat cruise, there’s plenty to do. The promenade is perfect for evening walks and around the hills one can find nice hiking paths. With Zurich city on one end, it is easy to combine urban excitement with lakefront relaxation.
6. Lake Lugano
Lake Lugano is a Swiss-Charm-Mediterranean-Flair combination, set in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking region of Ticino. It is surrounded by palm trees, mountains and charming towns whose waters sparkle. Boat tours across the lake or hiking up nearby Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore are a favorite of tourists for a spectacular view. The laid back atmosphere and warm weather make the lake ideal for summer holidays, especially for people who like food, wine and nature.
7. Lake Oeschinen (Oeschinensee)
Located in the Bernese Alps just outside of Kandersteg, Lake Oeschinen is a tranquil mountain lake which offers the visitors postcard views. You can get there by cable car and then a short walk. The lake is perfect for rowing, fishing or for a calm picnic surrounded by dramatic cliffs and forested slopes. Wildflowers in summer bloom all over turning this alpine treasure into a fairytale landscape.
8. Lake Neuchâtel
Situated in the French speaking region of Switzerland, Lake Neuchâtel is the country’s biggest lake that is fully situated within the country’s borders. It’s ideal for cycling or swimming, and even perfect for leisure hours by the lakeside cafés in the quaint town of Neuchâtel. History buffs can visit nearby castles and Roman ruins while nature lovers can bird watch in the surrounding wetlands. It’s a lesser known place but full of culture and calm.
9. Lake Cauma (Caumasee)
More often than not referred to as the “jewel of Flims”, the Lake Cauma is known with its emerald green water and tranquil forest surroundings. In summer, it is a nice place for swimming, paddle boarding or sunbathing. It is a family destination that is easy to access by a funicular ride from Flims that feels like a secret sanctuary. The water is refreshingly cool and you have trails around to make it perfect for a light hike before a dip.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s lakes are more than just postcard views they are windows to the soul of the country. Every lake has a special atmosphere, it may be the quiet shores of Lake Oeschinen, the cultural atmosphere of Lake Neuchâtel, or the Mediterranean atmosphere of Lake Lugano. If you are wishing to chill by the water, go on a boat ride or discover some nearby mountains and towns, these lakes provide you with unforgettable moments and postcard moments.
In order to enjoy all these beautiful lakes without the pressure of planning, book the Switzerland Travel Package that will take you on curated lake visits, scenic train rides, and comfortable accommodation. With a help of a professional and smooth itineraries, you will be able to experience nature and serenity that Switzerland is famous for. Let the magic of Swiss lakes make your next holiday trip a trip of a lifetime.
