Situated in the heart of Eastern Switzerland, the breathtaking Walensee (Lake Walen) offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. This stunning lake straddles the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus and marks the western edge of the picturesque Heidiland region, named after the world-famous “Heidi” story by Johanna Spyri.
With its towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, Walensee is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Switzerland. In this blog post we will inform you about what to expect when visiting this lake Walensee, let’s dive into it!
What Makes Walensee Unique?
Walensee is not just another Swiss lake. Its unique geography, with the dramatic Churfirsten mountain range rising almost vertically from its northern shores, creates a spectacular backdrop that feels like a scene straight out of a film.
Interestingly, the cliffs plunge over 1,000 meters into the deep! The beautiful turquoise waters make this place such a beautiful place to visit.
Top Activities Around Walensee
There are many things to do around Walensee, whether you are an enthusiastic hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or someone seeking peace and relaxation, Walensee has something for everyone. The variety of lake Walensee makes it one of our favourite lakes in Switzerland.
1. Hiking the Walensee Trails
Walensee is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, for all levels of hiking experience. One of the most popular routes is the Walensee Walk, which stretches along the wild northern shore from Weesen to Walenstadt. This trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and takes you through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along the foot of the majestic Churfirsten mountains.
We always look on Komoot for the best hiking trails. At lake Walensee there are 39 hikes which you can choose from. On the website you can easily set your level of hiking, distance and duration, which is great! Check the routes out here.
For a more challenging hike, the climb up to the spa town of Amden on the northern shore provides panoramic views of the entire region. This sunny plateau is a hiker’s paradise in the summer and transforms into a family-friendly skiing area in winter.
2. Water Sports and Diving
Talking about the clear waters of Lake Walensee, it’s simply stunning. Perfect for water sports too. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular activities, and the lake’s pristine conditions attract amateur divers to explore its depths.
Dive into Walensee, and you’ll discover hidden boat wrecks and other underwater treasures. However, keep in mind that the water is colder than other nearby lakes, adding an extra element of thrill to your dive.
3. Visit Quinten – A Mediterranean Oasis
On the southern shore of Walensee lies Quinten, a car-free village that can only be reached by boat or on foot. We love that more and more villages become car free, just like Zermatt for example.
Thanks to its unique microclimate, Quinten enjoys a Mediterranean-like atmosphere where palm trees, figs, and even grapes flourish.
A visit to this charming village is like stepping into a different world – one where time slows down, exactly how we like it. Definitely recommended to visit this town.
4. Explore the Seerenbach Waterfall and Rinquelle
Wow…Just west of Quinten, you’ll find the village of Betlis, home to one of the most impressive natural sights in the region – the Seerenbach Waterfall.
This three-tiered waterfall plunges nearly 720 meters, making it one of the highest in Europe.
Nearby, the Rinquelle spring gushes out from the rocks, offering another awe-inspiring sight. These natural wonders are particularly spectacular in the spring, when snowmelt feeds the falls and spring. So if you’re near this place during Spring season, definitely consider visiting this place.
Frequently Asked Questions About Walensee
Yes, swimming is possible in Lake Walensee, but be prepared for cold water! The lake’s clear waters are a few degrees colder than other lakes in the region, so it’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.
Lake Walensee reaches depths of up to 151 meters, making it one of Switzerland’s deeper lakes.
Walensee is located in Eastern Switzerland, between the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus. It’s about an hour drive from Zürich Main Station.
Due to its depth and size, Walensee rarely freezes over completely, even during the coldest winters. However, the surrounding areas can become snowy and are popular for winter sports.
Absolutely! Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, or simply a peaceful escape, Walensee offers something for everyone. From its dramatic landscapes to its charming villages, a visit to Walensee is an unforgettable experience.
Plan Your Visit to Walensee
Getting to Walensee is easy, whether you’re coming from Zürich or elsewhere in Switzerland. If you are coming from Zurich, it will only take around one hour to reach the lake. View the route here.
The lake is accessible year-round, with regular boat services connecting the key villages along the shore. In the warmer months, special boat tours such as brunch, pasta, and barbecue cruises offer a unique way to experience the lake.
Conclusion
Walensee is a beautiful and peaceful place that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails, enjoying water sports on the clear lake, or just relaxing and taking in the stunning mountain views, Walensee is a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed and amazed.
With charming villages like Quinten and natural wonders like the Seerenbach Waterfall, there’s plenty to explore. If you’re visiting Switzerland, don’t miss out on the chance to experience the Walensee. We hope you will have a lovely time exploring the lake and its surroundings!
