Best lakes around Simplon are found in a region characterized by its prominent mountain pass, connecting the Swiss Rhone Valley with the Italian Val d'Ossola. This area features a diverse landscape, encompassing both natural and artificial lakes. It serves as a starting point for various outdoor activities, offering a combination of alpine scenery and engineering structures. The Simplon region provides opportunities to explore high-altitude lakes and their surrounding trails.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Popular around Simplon
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Mountain Hikes around Simplon
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An extra tip: the chance of seeing ibex on the dam is always high, but be careful on particularly cloudy days: on those days the saltpetre is less present, and they know it 😉
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A perfect lake to cool off after a busy day of walking or simply to sunbathe.
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Great place
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amazing! amazing view, path for everyone on the left of the lake
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Built in the 1920s.
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Starting point and/or destination of numerous beautiful hikes. E.g. Gsponer Höhenweg
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Due to the cable car, this is a busy spot with plenty of space and entertainment, even for families. It's also a starting point for hikers aiming for higher ground. P.S. You can also walk here. 😉 (I then continued on to the Lagginhorn without using the cable car.) 😊]
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The Simplon region features a diverse landscape with both natural and artificial lakes. You'll find high-altitude mountain lakes, large dammed bodies of water, and reservoirs, offering a variety of experiences.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. For instance, Kreuzboden Lake is known for its clear mountain waters and raft ferry, while Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses also offers family-friendly options. The area around Simplon Pass also has natural lakes that are accessible.
Many lakes offer stunning alpine panoramas. For example, Kreuzboden Lake provides great views of the Mischabel chain. The Mattmark Reservoir is set in a wildly romantic landscape, offering impressive vistas.
Yes, the Simplon region is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including those around the lakes themselves. For more extensive hiking options, explore the Mountain Hikes around Simplon guide, which features routes like the difficult 'Weissmieshütte – Lagginhorn Summit loop'.
Yes, some lakes offer circular walking paths. The Mattmark Reservoir, for instance, can be walked all the way around, with a wide path on one side and a hiking trail on the other. The tour around Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses also takes about three and a half hours.
The best time to visit the Simplon lakes is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During this period, trails are generally clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. Early May might still have significant snow at higher elevations, as noted for Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses.
Absolutely. The Simplon Pass area is a popular destination for road cycling. You can find various routes, including challenging climbs and scenic rides. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Simplon guide for options like the 'Simplon Pass - Mythical Alpine passes in Valais'.
Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity in the Simplon region. There are numerous trails catering to different skill levels. For detailed routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Simplon guide, which includes routes like the 'Simplon Pass – Simplon Pass Eagle loop'.
Yes, parking is available in key areas. For example, the Simplon Pass itself offers parking, serving as a starting point for various hikes to nearby lakes and attractions.
The Mattmark Reservoir is popular because you can walk all the way around it, offering an imposing area to explore. It's also Europe's largest earth dam, fascinating for its technical details and its wildly romantic setting in the Saas Valley.
The dam forming Lake Alpe dei Cavalli (Lake of the Horses) dates back to the early 20th century. It was constructed to dam the Loranco stream in the Antrona valley, creating this significant artificial lake.
Yes, at the Simplon Pass, you can find two natural lakes: the Rotelsee and the Hopschusee. Additionally, two more artificial lakes have been created in the vicinity of the pass.


Still not found your perfect lake around Simplon? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.