Best lakes around Bachenbülach are primarily found in the surrounding Zurich region, as the immediate area is characterized by rivers and their confluences. Visitors can explore significant water features such as the Rhine River near Eglisau and the Tössegg, where the Töss River flows into the Rhine. These natural features offer opportunities for recreation like walking and picnicking. The region provides diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The pond owes its existence to groundwater, which is forced to rise through a watertight obstacle. The rising groundwater stirs up fine, light sand, interspersed with white snail shell debris, which was used as writing sand until the beginning of the last century. Legend of the "Goldig Tor" (short version according to Meinrad Lienert) Once upon a time a shepherd boy was tending sheep at the pond. It was a glorious foehn day and the boy lay down on the bank with his eyes heavy with dreams. Suddenly a maiden emerged from the pond up to her shoulders. She lured him with a golden ring on her hand. The boy tried to grab the ring and leaned over the water. Suddenly the maiden took him in both arms and sank with him. He had barely disappeared when his farmer rushed over, because he had heard his shepherd boy cry out. But he could not see his little shepherd anywhere. Suddenly it shot up like a candle from the golden sand whirlpool in the pond in front of him. He quickly pulled it to the bank. After a while the boy opened his eyes and began to tell what had happened to him: "The water maiden pulled me into an infinite depth. Suddenly I saw a mighty city with a huge golden gate. It just opened wide and a beautiful maiden stepped out. Now the maiden, who was holding me in her arms, opened her arms to greet her friend. At the same moment a whirlpool grabbed me and pulled me up with it. I don't know anything else." The shepherd boy returned to the pond again and again, but he never met the beautiful maiden again. Thanks to his story, however, we now know where the gold flakes in the water come from: they are washed off the golden gate and carried to the surface (content from the information board).
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Nice bathing spot. Ice bathing takes place here in winter.
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Beautiful bathing opportunity in beautiful surroundings
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While Bachenbülach itself is characterized more by rivers, you can explore significant water features in the surrounding region. The Rhine River near Eglisau offers opportunities for walks and observing the Eglisau-Glattfelden Hydroelectric Power Plant. Another picturesque spot is Tössegg, where the Töss River flows into the Rhine, known for picnic areas and ferry crossings.
Some popular lakes and ponds in the wider area include Katzensee (Lake Katzensee), which is surrounded by reeds and suitable for swimming in summer. Another notable spot is Dättnauer Pond, a natural monument and old brick pond now serving as a nature reserve. Visitors also appreciate Golden Gate, a pond known for its clear water and a local legend.
Yes, several lakes in the area are considered family-friendly. Katzensee (Lake Katzensee) is a great option, offering a relaxing natural environment and a lido for swimming. Dättnauer Pond and Golden Gate are also suitable for family visits, providing natural beauty and quiet surroundings.
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, with options like the 'Roman Villa of Winkel-Seeb – Mural of Horses and Farmer loop' or the 'Olympic Bench Bachenbühl – Stone Steps to the Stream loop'. For cycling, there are gravel biking routes such as the 'Glatt River Trail' and mountain biking trails like the 'Büli Bikepark – Petersboden Observation Tower loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and MTB trails guide for Bachenbülach.
Yes, Katzensee (Lake Katzensee) is a popular spot for swimming, especially in summer. It features a small lido, Katzensee Lido, which offers free entry and a relaxing way to enjoy time in nature. While there are no lifeguards, it provides a great place to cool off.
Around the lakes and rivers, you'll find diverse natural landscapes. Katzensee is surrounded by reeds and offers opportunities to observe various birds. Dättnauer Pond is a nature reserve set in a beautiful valley. The Rhine River at Eglisau and the Tössegg confluence provide scenic riverine views, picnic spots, and opportunities to watch river transport.
The summer months are ideal for visiting the lakes, especially for swimming at places like Katzensee. However, the riverine landscapes of the Rhine and Töss are pleasant for walks and picnics throughout spring, summer, and autumn, offering scenic beauty as the seasons change.
Yes, there are hiking trails available for various difficulty levels. Many routes around Bachenbülach are classified as 'easy', such as the 'Roman Villa of Winkel-Seeb – Mural of Horses and Farmer loop' or the 'Olympic Bench Bachenbühl – Stone Steps to the Stream loop'. These trails offer accessible ways to explore the natural surroundings, including areas near the rivers and ponds. You can find more hiking options in the hiking guide.
Dättnauer Pond is unique as an old brick pond that has been designated a natural monument and nature reserve. It offers a quiet road through a beautiful valley, making it a peaceful spot for nature observation away from main traffic.
Golden Gate is a pond associated with a local legend. The legend tells of a shepherd boy who was lured by a maiden from the pond and saw a mighty city with a huge golden gate. The gold flakes in the water are said to be washed off this golden gate. The pond itself is known for its very clear water intake.
While specific public transport routes to every single spot may vary, the region around Bachenbülach is generally well-connected. For places like Katzensee Lido, access is primarily on foot or by bike, though paid parking is available nearby. For other areas like the Rhine at Eglisau or Tössegg, local bus and train services typically connect to nearby towns, from which you can often reach the water features by a short walk or further local transport.
Many natural areas and trails in Switzerland are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near wildlife. While specific dog-friendly designations for every trail around Bachenbülach's water features are not always explicit, areas like the paths around Katzensee or along the Rhine River are popular for walks with dogs. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.


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