Best lakes around Opfikon offer diverse recreational opportunities within the Glatt Valley, near Zurich Airport. While Opfikon itself features the artificial Glattpark Lake, it is also a gateway to several natural lakes in the wider Zurich region. This area provides a mix of urban waterscapes and serene natural environments, catering to various outdoor activities. The landscape is characterized by its proximity to the city of Zurich and accessible natural retreats.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
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Popular around Opfikon
Only the lower Katzensee with the surroundings of the Gratisbadi is allowed for swimming. My memory of my youth is simply that we swam to the opposite bank of the Badi and put our feet in the mud there... with a certain fear of leeches...
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The marked HMG Katzensee hike 2025 will take place on March 1st/2nd. Distances from GZ Zurich Affoltern 5km, 10km or with an additional 6km loop via Rümlang.
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Beautiful cycle ride along the dirt track that circles the lake. Stop off for a swim at the beach or take a break to eat at one of the barbecue pits.
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Visitors frequently recommend the Greifensee Cycling Path for its scenic routes, and Lake Katzensee for its tranquil natural setting. Bürkliplatz on Lake Zurich is also a popular spot, offering stunning views over the lake towards the Alps.
Near Opfikon, you'll find a mix of urban and natural lakes. Opfikon itself features the artificial Glattpark Lake, designed for urban recreation. Easily accessible natural lakes include the expansive Lake Zurich, the serene Greifensee, the idyllic Katzensee, and the beautiful Pfäffikersee.
For swimming, you have several excellent options. The artificial Glattpark Lake in Opfikon offers sandy beaches and a refreshing urban swimming experience. Lake Zurich has numerous lidos, such as Strandbad Mythenquai and Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen. The Lower Katzensee features an 80-meter-long swimming beach, and Pfäffikersee offers the Auslikon lido with a pebble beach and extensive lawns.
Yes, the region is excellent for cycling. The Greifensee Cycling Path is particularly well-suited, offering wide paths along the lake. You can also find various gravel biking and road cycling routes in the wider area, such as those detailed in the Gravel biking around Opfikon and Road Cycling Routes around Opfikon guides.
Many lakes near Opfikon are family-friendly. Pfäffikersee, for instance, has the Auslikon lido with a playground and separate non-swimmer areas. Lake Katzensee and Greifensee are also popular for families, offering pleasant walks and cycling opportunities. Bürkliplatz on Lake Zurich is a great starting point for boat tours, which are fun for all ages.
The lakes offer diverse natural scenery. Around Lake Katzensee, you'll find idyllic woods and reeds, providing a tranquil environment. Greifensee is known for its scenic views, often including distant mountains. Pfäffikersee is surrounded by a nature reserve, offering protected natural beauty. Lake Zurich provides expansive water views, often with the Alps as a backdrop.
Yes, there are several options for walking and hiking. The area around Lake Katzensee is popular for walks, though some paths might have bicycle bans. Greifensee offers wide paths suitable for walking and cycling. For more challenging hikes, you can explore routes like the 'View of Lake Zurich – Uetliberg Summit Viewpoint loop' found in the MTB Trails around Opfikon guide, which also includes walking sections.
Most major lakes in the Zurich region, including Lake Zurich, Greifensee, and Pfäffikersee, are well-connected by public transport from Opfikon. Specific bus and train connections can take you to their shores. Glattpark Lake is located directly within Opfikon and is easily accessible.
Visitors appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from relaxing by the water to active sports. The scenic beauty, especially the views of the mountains from Greifensee and Lake Zurich, is often highlighted. The convenience of having both urban and natural water bodies easily accessible from Opfikon is also a major draw.
Yes, at the Auslikon lido on Pfäffikersee, you can rent SUP boards, making it a great spot for water sports enthusiasts. Other lakes, particularly Lake Zurich, also have various rental options for boats and water sports equipment at different lidos and marinas.
Yes, Opfikon is home to the artificial Glattpark Lake, located within the modern Glattpark development. It's designed for urban recreation, featuring sandy beaches and a pleasant park environment for swimming and relaxation.
For a more tranquil and natural experience, the Lower Katzensee is highly recommended. It's a smaller, idyllic lake surrounded by woods, offering a serene environment away from the larger crowds. Pfäffikersee, with its surrounding nature reserve, also provides a peaceful setting.


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