The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Fribourg

A practical tip for everyone who is out and about around Schwarzsee: Fäschtus' Biohüttli is a small self-service farm shop with organic/Demeter quality products. The shop is open around the clock every day, so you can also stop by outside of normal opening hours. The range is seasonal and includes, among other things, vegetables, potatoes, eggs, homemade pasta, flour, fruit, bread, and other products directly from the organic farm. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, there are also fresh plaited loaves.

A beautiful spot on the Schwarzsee circular trail is the observation tower in the Pürrena area. The tower is not particularly high and is easily accessible via a short staircase. At the top, there is a beautiful view over the Schwarzsee and the surrounding mountain landscape. Especially because on the circular trail, due to the reeds, you don't have a direct view of the lake everywhere, the short detour is particularly worthwhile.

A beautiful way to combine the Schwarzsee circular trail with Kneipp therapy. The approximately 4 km long route features seven different Kneipp experiences – including water treading, an arm bath, a barefoot path, a knee shower, and several stations for water treading in streams and the lake. Particularly nice: The Kneipp stations are located in the middle of nature and make the circular trail more varied. On warm days, the cold water provides a welcome refreshment. The Kneipp trail is free, very easy, and also suitable for families. You should plan about 2 hours for the complete round with all stations. Shoes and a small towel for your feet are recommended.

The ascent from the ridge path from Moléson is steeper and has loose stones and rock slabs (consideration for other climbers required). The view from the summit is worth it and the place is less crowded than the Moléson summit.

The 360-degree panorama From the summit, you can enjoy a gigantic panoramic view: To the north: The glittering Lake Geneva and the entire Mittelland region up to the Jura. To the south & east: The mighty peaks of the Mont Blanc massif and the Bernese Alps. 🍴 Gastronomy & Observatory Summit restaurant: The modern restaurant Le Sommet is located directly next to the mountain station. It offers a large sun terrace and local specialities (such as real Gruyère fondue). 🚡 Ways to the summit The comfortable option (train): From Moléson-Village with the funicular to Plan-Francey, then change to the large cable car, which takes you directly to the summit. The sporty option (hiking trails): Via the west flank: A beautiful, classic mountain hiking trail from Plan-Francey (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes, T2). Via ridge paths: Those who ascend via the via ferratas (Le Pilier or La Face) reach the main summit after exiting via a magnificent, secured ridge path in approx. 20 minutes.

The Schwarzsee, also known as Lac Noir, is idyllically situated in the canton of Fribourg (Sense district) and is part of the Gantrisch Nature Park. With its deep, dark water and surrounding peaks such as Kaiseregg (2185 m), Schafberg, and Spitzfluh, the lake offers a fascinating panorama. 🌅 Highlights & Activities Surroundings & Nature: The moorland and alpine pastures surrounding the lake are rich in species – with cotton grass, reeds, coots, and dragonflies – ideal for walks and nature observation. Leisure & Recreation: The Schwarzsee is ideal for hiking, swimming, paddling (SUP), or simply lounging on the shore. Accessible for hikes or conveniently by chairlift to Riggisalp – with alpine huts and restaurants. Legends & Experiences: Themed trails with legends from the Sense region, mystical landscapes in the Breccaschlund valley, and spectacular ice palaces in winter attract visitors year-round.

great view over the entire Schwarzsee

Nestled in the heart of the Greyerzerland, at 1,642 metres above sea level, Chalet Grat is an authentic mountain refuge at the foot of the imposing Gastlosen, the "Dolomites of Switzerland". Here you can enjoy local specialities such as Rösti or Fondue moitié-moitié, prepared over a wood fire, while admiring a spectacular Alpine panorama. For those who want to extend the experience, the cosy rooms with a view of the peaks offer a peaceful rest. Whether for a restorative break, a hike or a night under the stars, Chalet Grat is the ideal starting point for experiencing the mountains.