Walensee: A Swiss Alpine Lake

Discover Walensee: A pristine Swiss lake offering breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and charming villages nestled amidst the majestic Alps.

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Nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps, Walensee is a stunning lake renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic fjord-like scenery. Framed by towering cliffs and verdant slopes, it offers a picturesque escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Walensee

Local tips

Take a boat trip to Quinten, a car-free village on the north shore known for its mild climate and vineyards.
Hike to the top of the Seerenbach Falls for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake during the summer months.
Visit the historic town of Walenstadt and explore its well-preserved old town center.
Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Zurich Airport (ZRH), take a direct train to Ziegelbrücke (approx. 1 hour, CHF 20-30). From Ziegelbrücke, change to a regional train towards Ziegelbrücke (approx. 15 minutes, CHF 5-8) to reach towns along Walensee. The train stations are generally located within walking distance of the lake. For specific ferry connections to villages like Quinten, check the SBB website or local schedules. A single ferry ride costs around CHF 10-15.
Driving

From Zurich, take the A3 motorway towards Chur. Exit at Niederurnen/Walensee. Follow the signs to your desired town along the lake (e.g., Walenstadt, Weesen). Parking is available in most towns, but can be limited during peak season. Expect to pay around CHF 1-3 per hour for parking. Note that some roads along the lake may have tolls; however, these are unlikely to be encountered on the final approach to the lake itself.

Discover more about Walensee

Walensee, or Lake Walen, is a natural wonder carved by glaciers during the last ice age. Situated in eastern Switzerland, between the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus, it stretches for approximately 15 kilometers, offering a diverse landscape that captivates visitors year-round. The lake's unique character is defined by the steep, rocky cliffs that plunge into its depths, creating a dramatic fjord-like atmosphere. These cliffs, particularly impressive on the lake's northern side, are home to several waterfalls, including the Seerenbach Falls, one of Switzerland's highest. The southern shore, in contrast, features gentler slopes and charming villages, providing a more relaxed setting. Walensee is a haven for outdoor activities. During the warmer months, the lake beckons swimmers, sailors, windsurfers, and kayakers. Several well-maintained hiking trails wind along the shoreline and into the surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The Via Ferrata Klettersteig am Kerenzerberg, a protected climbing route, provides an adrenaline-pumping experience for experienced climbers. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland. While the lake rarely freezes completely, the surrounding mountains offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Picturesque villages like Amden and Weesen offer cozy accommodations and traditional Swiss hospitality. Throughout the year, boat trips on Walensee provide a unique perspective of the landscape. Regular services connect the various villages along the lake, allowing visitors to explore the region at their own pace. Special themed cruises, such as sunset cruises and culinary tours, add to the experience. The lake is surrounded by charming villages, each with its own unique character. Quinten, accessible only by boat or foot, is known for its mild climate and Mediterranean vegetation, including vineyards and fig trees. Weesen, at the western end of the lake, is a popular resort town with a beautiful lakeside promenade. Walenstadt, at the eastern end, is a historic town with a well-preserved old town center.