Top 20 Lakes around Zermatt

For breathtaking reflections of the Matterhorn, Riffelsee is world-famous, especially when the water is still. Stellisee, part of the '5 Lakes Walk', also provides a near-perfect reflection, particularly in the calm morning hours. Grindjisee offers a serene reflection amidst larch trees, adding to its mysterious beauty.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Blue Lake in the Ayas valley is easily accessible on a frequented path. Leisee is known as 'Zermatt's beach' and features a playground, barbecue areas, picnic spots, and a play raft, with swimming permitted. Schalisee, located on the valley floor near Täsch, is also great for families, offering swimming, picnicking, and even water skiing.

Swimming is permitted in several lakes. Grünsee, fed by the Findel Glacier, is a refreshing spot for a swim. Leisee is popular for swimming, especially with families. Schalisee also allows swimming and offers various water-based activities. Note that swimming is prohibited in Moosjisee for safety reasons.

The '5 Lakes Walk' (5 Seenweg) is a popular hiking trail that connects five distinct mountain lakes. It includes Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee. This walk offers diverse landscapes and multiple opportunities to view the Matterhorn.

The lakes around Zermatt display a range of unique colors. Grünsee can shift from brownish to deep emerald green. Moosjisee has a distinct turquoise-blue hue due to its glacial meltwater. Schwarzsee's color can range from dark to turquoise blue depending on light conditions, and Blue Lake lives up to its name with its striking color.

The area around Zermatt's lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the '5 Lakes Trail' or the 'Riffelsee – View of the Matterhorn loop'. For more extensive options, explore the hiking routes around Zermatt. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the 'Zermatt Village Center – Matterhorn Terminal Täsch loop'. Discover more cycling tours around Zermatt.

The best time to visit the lakes in Zermatt for hiking and enjoying the scenery is typically during the summer months, from June to September, when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is generally pleasant. This period allows for swimming in the warmer lakes and offers the best conditions for Matterhorn reflections.

Many areas around Zermatt's lakes are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. For example, Blue Lake is mentioned as being accessible with dogs, though caution is advised on some paths.

Yes, several lakes are easily accessible. Riffelsee is located near the Rotenboden station, making it convenient to reach by mountain railway. Schwarzsee is accessible via gondola. Blue Lake is noted for being reachable without significant difficulty on a frequented path. The '5 Lakes Walk' can be started from Sunnegga, which is accessible by funicular.

Mattmark Reservoir stands out as an imposing area with a large man-made lake. You can walk all the way around the lake, and it's accessible by PostBus to the dam wall. The trail around it offers a mix of wide paths and more natural hiking sections, sometimes with mountain streams to navigate.

Schwarzsee, located at the foot of the Matterhorn, offers crystal-clear water where the 'Maria zum Schnee' chapel is perfectly reflected. Its color varies from dark to turquoise blue. It's a great starting point for hikes and provides fine views of the Matterhorn's Hörnligrat ridge and the village of Zermatt below, combining natural beauty with a cultural element.

For ultimate mountain tranquility, Riffelsee offers a serene setting with its iconic Matterhorn reflections. Grindjisee also provides a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peace amidst alpine flora. These spots are ideal for quiet contemplation and photography.