Seerenbach Falls: A Majestic Cascade into Lake Walen
Experience the awe-inspiring Seerenbach Falls, where cascading waters meet the serene beauty of Lake Walen in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Nestled near Amden in the Canton of St. Gallen, the Seerenbach Falls present a stunning natural display as they plunge into Lake Walen. The falls are composed of three main cascades, with the middle tier boasting a 305-meter drop, making it one of Switzerland's highest free-falling waterfalls. The Rinquelle, a karst spring emerging from an extensive cave system within the Churfirsten mountain, merges with the lowest of the Seerenbach Falls, creating an additional waterfall. Divers have explored this cave system, discovering a 3-kilometer-long canal leading deep into the mountain's interior, though its ultimate destination remains a mystery. The falls are easily accessible via a hiking trail from Betlis, offering panoramic views of Lake Walen and the surrounding landscape. The trail meanders through meadows filled with wildflowers and past rustic farmhouses, providing a picturesque backdrop for the journey. For families with children, the trail includes a treasure hunt theme and a small playground. The base of the falls provides areas to sit and a grilling station. While some visitors have noted variations in the falls' water volume depending on the season and recent rainfall, the Seerenbach Falls remain a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts. The combination of the cascading waterfalls, the emerald waters of Lake Walen, and the surrounding mountains creates a memorable experience.
Local tips
- Visit in late spring or early summer for the most impressive water flow, as snowmelt and rainfall contribute to the falls' volume.
- Take the ferry from Weesen to Betlis for a scenic start to your hike, enjoying views of Lake Walen along the way.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, especially if you plan to explore the trails closer to the falls, which can be rocky and uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the base of the falls, where there are designated areas for grilling and seating.
- Consider a detour to the Rinquelle spring to witness the unique karst spring that feeds into the Seerenbach Falls.
A brief summary to Seerenbach Falls
- Wasserfall, Amden, 8873, CH
- +41582282830
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Zurich, take a train to Ziegelbrücke. From Ziegelbrücke, walk to the Bahnhof Süd bus stop and take bus 650 to Amden, Vorderdorf. From Amden, it's a walk to Seerenbach Falls. Alternatively, from Weesen, take a boat to Betlis. From Betlis, follow the hiking trail to Seerenbach Falls, about a 1.75 km walk. A single bus fare from Ziegelbrücke to Amden costs approximately CHF 2-3. A round trip boat ticket from Weesen to Betlis costs CHF 16.20 for adults.
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Walking
From Betlis, the trail to Seerenbach Falls is approximately 1.75 km. Follow the well-marked path along the Walensee lake. The walk is relatively easy, taking you through meadows and past farmhouses. The final section of the trail to the waterfall viewpoint involves a short uphill climb. No costs are associated with walking to the falls.
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Car
From Zurich, drive towards Weesen. Continue along the narrow road beside Walensee to Betlis. Parking is available in Betlis, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. If parking is full, consider parking at Lago Mio or the train station in Weesen and walking to the ferry terminal. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around CHF 5-10 for a few hours. Note that the road to Betlis can be challenging for larger vehicles.
