A tour of Switzerland's most beautiful lakes - Ibis
A tour of Switzerland's most beautiful lakes - Ibis
Switzerland is home to almost 1,500 lakes scattered around the country, some of which are breathtakingly beautiful.
The great lakes
Stretching across Switzerland's border with France, Lake Geneva is Central Europe's largest lake. From Geneva's harbour to the Vaud Riviera around Montreux via the Lavaux vineyard near Lausanne, its Swiss shores are hugely popular with holidaymakers. Over on the other north-eastern side of the country, Lake Constance borders Germany and Austria and is also a popular holidaying spot thanks to its undulating landscape with views over the Alps. Visitors can enjoy beautiful cruises between picturesque towns and villages such as Rorschach and Gottlieben. The shores of Central Switzerland's Lake Lucerne are reminiscent of fjords, and offer up opportunities to stroll and hike along mountain trails that lead up to the surrounding peaks: the Rigi or Mont Pilate, for example, are incredible viewing points for breathtaking views over the lake. Lake Maggiore is another classic Swiss lake, and a little southern enclave on the border with Italy. On its shores, the soft air of the Mediterranean blows through the tourist towns of Locarno and Ascona.
Mountain lakes
Hikes in Switzerland are opportunities to soak up the beauty of the country's mountain lakes. The Blausee and its turquoise subterranean spring waters is one of the most remarkable. Located in the Bernese Oberland, the surrounding natural park is perfect for walks, strolls and hikes. Another natural gem is the Lago di Saoseo lake in Italian-speaking Switzerland's Val di Campo area, featuring crystal-clear waters that act as a mirror to the surrounding larch forests. In the Valais region, the Blue Lake at 2,200 metres altitude offers sweeping views of the highest peaks of the Swiss Alps, including the Matterhorn and the Weisshorn. At 1,000 metres altitude in the Grisons canton is the Caumasee, a firm favourite thanks to its turquoise waters. This lake, surrounded by forest, is perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.
