Best lakes in Surselva are found in the heart of the Swiss Alps, a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape. This area offers a variety of lakes, from high-altitude alpine bodies of water to reservoirs with historical significance. The lakes provide opportunities for hiking and exploration, set against a backdrop of mountain scenery. Surselva is home to the source of the Rhine River, adding a notable geographic feature to its natural attractions.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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Scenic pass that is opened all year round (closes at 6pm in winter). There is hardly any traffic which makes cycling very nice and plenty of opportunities to take pictures. We crossed the pass in early May when there was still plenty of snow up there. The change in scenery where it was all green at Disentis and slowly turning white as we climbed higher... and very quickly turned to green as we rolled down on the south side to Biasca was breathtaking.
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The Lucomagno is one of the most famous Alpine passes in Switzerland. It is located between the cantons of Ticino and Grisons, at an altitude of 1,926 meters. The name seems to derive from the Latin "locus magnus", meaning "large, open place". It is often tackled in the professional race of the Tour of Switzerland.
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The panoramic view of the Graubünden mountains is simply incomparably beautiful.
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Lukmanier Pass When the Disentis monastery was founded around 720, the Lukmanier Pass, which could be crossed without great difficulty and was also considerably lower than the other passes in the Alps, became very important. During the Staufer period, it was considered the most important north-south connection to Italy. However, it quickly lost this role to the Gotthard and Splügen passes. In 1374, the Disentis monastery built the "Hospezi S. Maria" with a chapel on the top of the pass. Both had to make way for the construction of the reservoir in 1964. The new hospice at the current location was inaugurated on August 1, 1965 and the chapel in 1967. The Lukmanier Pass played an important role in the choice of the route of an Alpine railway at times, because the planners assumed that it would be possible to build it without an expensive summit tunnel. In 1869, however, the decision was made in favor of the Gotthard railway. Between 1872 and 1877, a modern road was built over the Lukmanier. With the construction of the "Lai da Sontga Maria" reservoir in the 1960s, the road on the Graubünden side had to be relocated to a gallery. The importance of a supra-regional transport axis ended with the opening of the motorway tunnel through the Gotthard. Tourism in the Surselva began to suffer greatly as a result, especially as the pass was closed during the winter from 1980 onwards. On the initiative of the municipality of Disentis and the Surselva mountain railways in particular, the "Pro Lucmagn" association was founded, which has been responsible for ensuring that the Lukmanier pass remains open for as long as possible in winter since 2005. The canton, district, municipalities and tourism in both Graubünden and Ticino provide the finances. The five-year trial phase was positive. This project has been secured for the long term since 2011. Clearly to the benefit of tourism in the Surselva as well as in the Blenio Valley. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://www.alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/lukmanierpass/
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The Lag Serein 🌊 is an idyllic mountain lake in the Caischavedra region, near Disentis in Graubünden. The hike starts in Disentis and takes you through picturesque landscapes, past forests and meadows in about 2 to 3 hours 🌿. The path is well signposted and suitable for hikers of all levels of difficulty. Once you arrive at Lag Serein, you can enjoy the peace and the impressive mountain landscape 🌄.
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When the lake is still, the mountain range is reflected in it. Beautiful.
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Feel free to look at the photos of the food on Google Maps before you sit down 😉
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The dam wall of the Lag da Pigniu - or Panixersee - is 270 meters long and was built between 1980 and 1990. In 1999, the artist Martin Valär from the Engadin used the large concrete surface as a canvas. He painted a painting on the wall that was almost 200 meters long and around 30 meters high. The subject: the crossing of the Panixer Pass by the Russian army in October 1799. Unfortunately, the weather has taken its toll on the paint, so that the painting has now faded considerably.
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The lakes in Surselva are unique due to their diverse characteristics, ranging from high-altitude alpine bodies of water to reservoirs with historical significance. Notably, the region is home to Lai da Tuma, famously considered the source of the Rhine River, and Lake Oberalp, which features the world's highest lighthouse.
Yes, Lai da Tuma holds historical significance as the source of the Rhine River. Additionally, Lag da Pigniu Dam is notable for a faded painting on its wall depicting the 1799 crossing of the Panixer Pass by the Russian army, blending natural beauty with local history.
Several lakes in Surselva are family-friendly. Lake Oberalp offers opportunities for fishing and relaxing on a terrace. Dachlisee is well-equipped with a wood fire pit, tables, benches, and a toilet, accessible via a pram-friendly path. Lag da Pigniu Dam also has a barbecue area at the end of the lake.
While many alpine lakes in Surselva are quite cold, swimming is generally possible in some areas. For instance, while swimming is not permitted in Lake Brigels itself, a dedicated Brigels Swimming Lake is available nearby for water activities. Always check local regulations and water temperatures before entering.
Yes, Surselva offers numerous hiking trails around its lakes. For example, you can hike to Lai da Tuma from the Oberalp Pass, a route that offers spectacular views. You can find detailed hiking routes, including options like the '676 Pazolastock – source of the Rhine' or 'To the source of the Rhine – Oberalp Pass to Tomasee', on the Hiking in Surselva guide.
For breathtaking panoramic views, Lake Oberalp is known for its serene waters reflecting the surrounding mountain ranges. Lake Brigels also provides a picturesque mountain panorama, ideal for leisurely strolls. Lai da Tuma, situated at 2,344 meters, offers rugged alpine vistas.
Yes, Lag da Laus is described as one of the most beautiful and hidden little lakes in the region. Its secluded nature makes it perfect for visitors seeking tranquility and an unspoiled natural experience away from crowds.
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Fishing is popular at Lake Oberalp. The region also offers cycling routes, such as those found in the Cycling in Surselva guide, and even waterfall hikes, which you can explore in the Waterfall hikes in Surselva guide.
Yes, some lakes are equipped with facilities. Dachlisee, for instance, has a wood fire pit, tables, benches, and a simple toilet. At the end of Lag da Pigniu Dam, you can find a barbecue area.
The best time to visit the lakes in Surselva is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when hiking trails are clear of snow and the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. High-altitude lakes like Lai da Tuma are typically accessible during this period.
Access varies by lake. Many popular spots, like the area around Lake Oberalp, have parking available. For specific public transport options to individual lakes, it's advisable to check local transport schedules, especially for higher alpine destinations.
Around the lakes in Surselva, you can expect to see diverse natural features. These include rugged alpine landscapes, high moor areas with streams and meadows near Lai da Tuma, and impressive mountain reflections in the serene waters of Lake Oberalp. Waterfalls are also present in the vicinity of Lag da Pigniu Dam.


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