Best lakes around Greifensee are located just east of Zurich, Switzerland, offering a natural escape with diverse ecosystems. The region features a significant protected nature reserve, home to hundreds of plant species and numerous migratory birds. Greifensee itself is encircled by flat moors and reed belts, contributing to its rich ecological landscape. The area provides a variety of recreational activities, including a popular 19-kilometer trail around the lake.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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It's a beautiful bike ride. Plenty of parking is available (fee applies). Nearby is the Egg swimming pool, with a snack stand (sausage and sandwiches). The Greifensee and Lützelsee lakes are 48 km away, and are also suitable for children.
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There is a very nice cycle path around the Greifensee, super nice to ride
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The Auslikon lido is located in the nature reserve on Lake Pfäffikon and is freely accessible all year round. Stand-up paddleboards are also available for hire in summer.
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Very nice lake with bathing possibilities
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JUCKERHOF SEE GRÄBEN The Juckerhof is the adventure farm on Lake Pfäffikersee run by the Jucker family. It all started with the pumpkin, today the farm is much more than that. There is plenty of space to relax, a breathtaking view, a farm shop, a farm bakery, a restaurant, a goat park, a straw castle to jump around in, blueberries to pick yourself, a natural playground and a huge apple maze with a barefoot experience. Text / Source: Bächlihof Jona, Juckerhof https://www.juckerfarm.ch/
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Pfäffikersee circular route no. 890 The popular circular route around Lake Pfäffikersee in the Zurich Oberland leads through unique nature with typical moor plants, past the romantic farming village of Seegräben and back to the pulsating lake promenade of Pfäffikon ZH. The starting point is Pfäffikon ZH, where you are just a stone's throw away in the middle of an enchanting lakeside landscape. A comfortable path leads past high reed belts and magnificent moorland landscapes, which provide a habitat for countless animal and plant species. Along the way you can catch a particularly attractive view of the nature reserve from pretty wooden walkways. A very special eye-catcher is the farming village of Seegräben, which you can see, gently embedded in the intact nature. With the half-timbered houses typical of the region, the place offers a romantic view and takes the viewer back to earlier times. The wide meadows sway peacefully in the wind and on the lake side the variety of aquatic plants and local animals is impressive. For a relaxing break, there are both cozy places in nature and restaurants along the route. A detour to the signposted adventure farm is also worthwhile. After the village of Auslikon, the stately Roman fort appears on the horizon as another eye-catcher before you reach Pfäffikon ZH again - showered by the natural experience. Text / Source: SwitzerlandMobility https://www.schweizmobil.ch/de/wanderland/routen/route-0890.html
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The Greifensee Cycling Path is a popular choice, offering a wide, nearly flat 19-kilometer asphalt trail that encircles the entire lake, suitable for cycling, hiking, and inline skating. Another excellent option is the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail, which provides great views of the mountains and nature, leading through unique moor plants and past the charming farming village of Seegräben.
Yes, the 19-kilometer trail encircling Lake Greifensee is largely flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for easy walks. You can also find several easy hiking routes, such as the 'Lake Greifensee – Greifensee loop from Bezirk Uster', which is about 3.9 km long. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Greifensee.
The Greifensee region is very accessible from Zurich by public transport, making it a convenient destination for a day trip. Many trails and attractions around the lake are within easy reach of public transport stops.
A significant portion of Greifensee's shoreline is a protected nature reserve, making it a haven for diverse flora and fauna. You can observe over 400 plant species and around 120 types of migratory birds. The lake is encircled by flat moors and reed belts, contributing to its rich ecological landscape and offering a tranquil escape.
Absolutely. Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly, including Lake Greifensee itself with its clear waters and designated bathing areas. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail is also suitable for families. For swimming and relaxation, Auslikon Beach on Lake Pfäffikon offers a spacious bathing facility with a pebble beach, extensive lawns, and a playground for younger bathers.
The clear waters of Lake Greifensee are suitable for swimming, with designated safe and clean bathing areas available. Additionally, Auslikon Beach on Lake Pfäffikon is a popular lido with a pebble beach, lawns, and facilities for a refreshing swim.
The charming small town of Greifensee, located directly on the lake, is a notable attraction. Its historic center features attractive buildings and a Gothic church built around 1330. The visible-from-afar Greifensee Castle, which once served as the governor's residence, is now a venue for cultural events and offers beautiful views over the lake.
Beyond hiking and cycling, the calm waters of Greifensee are popular for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy boat trips, including nostalgic trips on the historic steamship 'Greif' which operates from spring to autumn. For more adventurous cycling, explore the gravel biking routes around Greifensee or the road cycling routes.
The lakes are particularly vibrant during warmer months when recreational activities like swimming, cycling, and boating are in full swing. However, the regular boat service operates year-round, and the circular trails are enjoyable in various seasons, including for winter hiking, offering different scenic experiences.
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful views of the mountains and nature, especially along trails like the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail. The well-maintained paths for cycling, walking, and rollerblading around Lake Greifensee are highly appreciated, as are the numerous rest and bathing areas. The serene, nature-focused experience, less crowded than larger lakes, is also a significant draw.


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