Category: Lakes & Swimming

The Kalterer See in the South Tyrolean lowlands is regarded as one of the warmest bathing lakes in the Alps and reaches bathing temperatures in summer that Alpine lakes otherwise rarely offer. It lies in the middle of the wine country on the South Tyrolean Wine Road, surrounded by vines…

The Maggia valley is the largest valley in Ticino and is known for its crystal-clear, emerald-green river water, stone mountain villages and waterfalls. Its landmark is the waterfall of Foroglio. Natural pools along the Maggia invite swimming in summer, though the water stays cold. Highlights Emerald-green, clear river water Waterfall…

Lugano is the largest town in Ticino and lies with Mediterranean flair on the lake of the same name between the viewpoint mountains Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Palm promenades, a lively old town and funiculars up the local mountains shape the scene. The lake reaches into Italy. Highlights…

The Flims-Laax region is one of the largest ski areas in Switzerland and in summer is known for the turquoise Caumasee, one of the most beautiful bathing lakes in the Alps. Nearby runs the Rhine Gorge Ruinaulta, an impressive canyon of the Vorderrhein. Highlights One of the largest ski areas…

The Thunersee between Thun and Interlaken is lined with several castles, including Oberhofen Castle right on the shore. Above the lake rises the Niesen, the striking pyramid with the longest staircase in the world. On the north shore the St. Beatus Caves lead into the mountain. Highlights Oberhofen Castle on…

The Brienzersee east of Interlaken captivates with its intense turquoise blue. On its shore the Giessbach Falls plunge into the lake over several tiers, and the historic Brienz Rothorn Railway, Switzerland's last steam cog railway, runs up. By the village of Brienz lies the Ballenberg open-air museum. Highlights Intense turquoise-blue…