Lakes around Rorbas, a municipality in the Canton of Zürich, Switzerland, is situated in the lower Töss Valley, characterized by rivers rather than large natural lakes within its immediate area. The greater Zurich region, however, is known for its accessible lakes, offering various recreational opportunities. These bodies of water provide options for day trips and outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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see also the Hiking Highlight https://www.komoot.com/highlight/567991 or the webpage from ProNatura Schweiz https://www.pronatura.ch/de/bibersee-marthalen-zh-toter-wald-oder-lebendiges-feuchtgebiet
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The pond owes its existence to groundwater, which is forced to rise through a watertight obstacle. The rising groundwater stirs up fine, light sand, interspersed with white snail shell debris, which was used as writing sand until the beginning of the last century. Legend of the "Goldig Tor" (short version according to Meinrad Lienert) Once upon a time a shepherd boy was tending sheep at the pond. It was a glorious foehn day and the boy lay down on the bank with his eyes heavy with dreams. Suddenly a maiden emerged from the pond up to her shoulders. She lured him with a golden ring on her hand. The boy tried to grab the ring and leaned over the water. Suddenly the maiden took him in both arms and sank with him. He had barely disappeared when his farmer rushed over, because he had heard his shepherd boy cry out. But he could not see his little shepherd anywhere. Suddenly it shot up like a candle from the golden sand whirlpool in the pond in front of him. He quickly pulled it to the bank. After a while the boy opened his eyes and began to tell what had happened to him: "The water maiden pulled me into an infinite depth. Suddenly I saw a mighty city with a huge golden gate. It just opened wide and a beautiful maiden stepped out. Now the maiden, who was holding me in her arms, opened her arms to greet her friend. At the same moment a whirlpool grabbed me and pulled me up with it. I don't know anything else." The shepherd boy returned to the pond again and again, but he never met the beautiful maiden again. Thanks to his story, however, we now know where the gold flakes in the water come from: they are washed off the golden gate and carried to the surface (content from the information board).
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The name of the duck pond is Chloschter Gumpen. Shady with several benches --> Good place for a break
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Full of birds in the right season.
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Today's reed originated in a depression between moraines of the last ice age. The original lake silted up over time, forming mighty ones peat storage. Today the low moor with its rich fauna and flora belongs to the most valuable wetlands of the wine country. The water level will be above a Structure regulated in the southwest. The Baldisriet was replaced by the adjoining the renatured former road line of the old canton road.
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While Rorbas itself is in a river valley, you can discover several interesting local water bodies. These include Dättnauer Pond, an old brick pond now a quiet nature reserve, and Chlostergumpen Pond, a biotope with barbecue and picnic facilities. Another notable spot is Golden Gate, a pond formed by rising groundwater, known for its clear water and local legend.
For larger lake experiences, the greater Zurich region offers several options. Lake Zurich is a major hub for swimming, boat cruises, and lakeside promenades. Pfäffikersee is known for its protected nature reserve, ideal for cycling and birdwatching. Türlersee offers a more tranquil experience with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and leisurely walks.
Yes, several lakes in the vicinity are excellent for nature observation. Pfäffikersee features a significant nature reserve along its shoreline, perfect for birdwatching. Türlersee is a protected nature reserve and an important amphibian spawning area. Closer to Rorbas, Dättnauer Pond is a quiet nature reserve, and Bibersee Marthalen is a large beaver lake formed by a dammed stream.
Families have several great options. Chlostergumpen Pond offers a biotope with barbecue and picnic areas. Pfäffikersee is popular for cycling around the lake and swimming, often combined with a visit to Jucker Farm. Türlersee provides opportunities for swimming at its lido, renting paddleboats, and easy walks around the lake.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity during warmer months. Lake Zurich has numerous lidos and beaches. Pfäffikersee and Türlersee also offer swimming opportunities, with Türlersee typically having a lido with an entrance fee. The water in these lakes is generally warm enough for comfortable swimming in summer.
Absolutely. Many lakes in the region are surrounded by hiking trails. You can enjoy a leisurely walk around Türlersee, which takes just over an hour. Pfäffikersee also has popular cycling and walking paths along its nature reserve. For more extensive hiking, explore the various routes available in the region, such as those found in the Hiking around Rorbas guide.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming and water sports, as the lake waters are warm. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking, cycling, and nature observation, with beautiful scenery. Winter can be charming for quiet walks, though water activities are limited.
Yes, Chlostergumpen Pond is specifically noted for having a biotope with barbecue and picnic areas, making it a great spot for an outdoor meal. Many other lakeside areas, especially at larger lakes like Lake Zurich, also offer designated picnic spots.
Beyond swimming and hiking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Cycling is very popular, especially around Pfäffikersee. Paddleboating and stand-up paddleboarding are available for rent at lakes like Lake Zurich and Türlersee. You can also find numerous road cycling and running routes in the wider Rorbas area, detailed in guides like Road Cycling Routes around Rorbas and Running Trails around Rorbas.
Many of the larger lakes in the Zurich region are well-connected by public transport from Rorbas. Lake Zurich, Pfäffikersee, and Türlersee can typically be reached via a combination of train and bus services, making them convenient for day trips without a car.
Golden Gate is a natural monument formed by rising groundwater. It's notable for its exceptionally clear water and is associated with the local legend of the 'Goldig Tor' (Golden Gate), which explains the presence of gold flakes in the water.
For a quieter experience, Dättnauer Pond is located off the main traffic in a quiet valley and is a nature reserve. Türlersee also offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling Lake Zurich, making it suitable for a peaceful outing.


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