Top 20 Lakes around Mels

The region around Mels offers a variety of stunning lakes. Key highlights include the idyllic Chapfensee, the succession of distinct mountain lakes on the renowned Pizol 5-Lakes Hike (featuring lakes like Wangsersee, Wildsee, Schottensee, Schwarzsee, and Baschalvasee), and the tranquil Lake Walen (Walensee). Further afield but easily accessible for a day trip are the turquoise Lake Cauma (Caumasee) and the activity-rich Heidsee.

Yes, the area is excellent for hiking. The Pizol 5-Lakes Hike is a major highlight, offering magnificent views and crystal-clear mountain lakes. You can also find hiking trails around Chapfensee and along the shores of Lake Walen. For more detailed routes, explore the Mountain Hikes around Mels guide, which includes routes like the Wildsee – Schotten Lake loop.

Several lakes in the region are suitable for swimming. Lake Cauma is particularly known for its pleasant summer water temperatures (up to 24°C) and sandy beach. Heidsee also warms up to over 20°C in summer, making it ideal for bathing and water sports. Lake Walen is also popular for swimming.

Beyond hiking and swimming, the lakes offer diverse activities. Chapfensee is great for biking, barbecuing, and fishing. At Lake Walen, you can enjoy sailing and cycling along its expanding cycle path. Lake Cauma and Heidsee provide opportunities for paddle boating, stand-up paddling, and kayaking. Cycling enthusiasts can find routes in the Cycling around Mels guide, including the Lake Walen – Lake Walen Cycle Path loop.

Absolutely. Heidsee is very family-friendly, featuring a Lido with a sandy beach, a pirate ship, a climbing mountain, and a suspension bridge. Lake Cauma also offers a sandy beach and opportunities for paddle boating. The cycle path along Lake Walen is also suitable for families.

The best time to visit largely depends on the activities you plan. For hiking, especially high-alpine routes like the Pizol 5-Lakes Hike, late spring to early autumn (June to October) is ideal. For swimming and water sports, the summer months (July and August) offer the warmest water temperatures at lakes like Lake Cauma and Heidsee.

The lakes around Mels are characterized by their diverse natural settings. You'll find idyllic dammed mountain lakes like Chapfensee, high-alpine lakes with striking colors such as those on the Pizol 5-Lakes Hike (e.g., the turquoise Wildsee or the dark Schwarzsee), and large valley lakes like Lake Walen framed by majestic mountains. Many are surrounded by lush forests and offer panoramic views of the Alps.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the variety of experiences. The surreal colors and mountain reflections of lakes like Schottensee and Wildseeluggen on the 5-Lakes Hike are often highlighted. The tranquil atmosphere of places like Chapfensee and the peaceful retreat offered by Lake Walen are also highly valued. The unique dark appearance of Schwarzsee (Pizol) also leaves a lasting impression.

While not exactly 'hidden,' Chapfensee, located directly within Mels, offers an idyllic and serene nature reserve setting that provides a peaceful escape. Its designation as a nature reserve and its high-plateau location make it a special spot for relaxation and enjoying the mountain climate.

Yes, the region offers accessible options. The cycle path along Lake Walen is expanding and provides accessible routes through tunnels and along the lakeside, suitable for walking. Additionally, the forest paths surrounding Lake Cauma are free to access and offer pleasant walks, though the main bathing area has an entrance fee.

Yes, there are options available. For instance, the Hotel Seebenalp at Lake Grosssee offers refreshments with tradition, comfortable rooms, and a spacious sun terrace with mountain views. Many popular lake destinations like Heidsee and Lake Cauma also have facilities such as lidos or restaurants nearby.

The Pizol 5-Lakes Hike is a renowned high-alpine trail considered one of Switzerland's most beautiful panoramic mountain hikes. It features a succession of distinct mountain lakes, including Wangsersee, Wildsee, Schottensee, Schwarzsee, and Baschalvasee. The hike offers crystal-clear mountain lakes and magnificent views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sardona, requiring good hiking boots due to rocky sections.