Obersee: A Glarus Gem
Discover Obersee: Glarus Nord's stunning alpine lake offering serene walks, hikes, and breathtaking mountain views.
Obersee, nestled in a beautiful valley in Glarus Nord, is an idyllic destination offering a tranquil escape into nature. The lake's crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains, creating breathtaking scenery reminiscent of British Columbia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including leisurely walks along the stroller-friendly path that encircles the lake and more challenging hikes into the surrounding mountains. Fishing is popular, and boats are available for rent. A forest nature trail adds an educational element to the experience. The Berghotel Obersee, located directly on the lake, provides dining and playground facilities. The lake lies at 983 meters above sea level, framed by the Bärensoolspitz, Brünnelistock, and Rautispitz peaks. The Sulzbach stream feeds the lake, which has no above-ground outlet. The area is easily accessible from Zurich by car in about an hour. Obersee is a year-round destination, offering hiking in the warmer months and potentially black ice skating in cold, dry winters.
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside; there are many scenic spots to relax.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails around the lake.
- Consider visiting in the fall for spectacular autumn colors reflected in the lake.
A brief summary to Obersee
- Glarus Nord, CH
Getting There
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Car
The most direct way to reach Obersee is by car. From Näfels, follow the signs west towards Oberseetal or Obersee. The road is a narrow, winding one-lane road that ascends approximately 7km to the lake. Parking is available in a dirt lot near the Berghotel at the east end of the lake and is free. Be aware that the road can be steep and narrow.
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Public Transport & Walking
While there is no direct bus to Obersee, you can take public transport to Näfels. From Zurich, take the S25 train to Näfels-Mollis. From Näfels, it is approximately a 75-minute uphill walk to Obersee. Alternatively, consider the Obersee Taxi (Rufbus Armin Fischli Oberseetal) for transport from Näfels to Obersee. Contact +41 55 612 10 72 for information and reservations. Walking from the Näfels train station to Obersee will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Follow the road signs towards Obersee. The walk is steep.
