Top 6 Lakes around Meltingen
Lakes around Meltingen are found in the broader region of Solothurn, Switzerland, as Meltingen itself is characterized by its river valleys and karst landscape rather than prominent standing water bodies. The area is known for its natural features, including the Chaltbrunnetal, a valley with steep rock faces and an underground cave system. This region offers various hiking trails that explore its unique geological formations and historical sites. Meltingen's natural environment provides opportunities for outdoor activities within its forested and agricultural areas.
Best lakes around Meltingen
- The most popular lake is Basler Weiher, an artificial lake that became the largest in the Canton of Solothurn. Originally created as a drinking water reservoir for Basel, it is now a nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Stritteren Weiher, a lake that offers a quiet place for a break in nature. This area also features historical lime kilns, adding a cultural element to the natural setting.
- Visitors also love Pond with a wooden jetty near Reigoldswil, a family-friendly lake. It is located near an overview map that highlights various hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area.
- The region around Meltingen is known for artificial ponds, nature reserves, and historical sites. These water bodies offer diverse experiences, from tranquil breaks to insights into local history.
- The lakes around Meltingen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and 20 photos shared.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Little lake in Bogental
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Shortly before the Bogental farm we come across a pond. The Bogental pond was built around 1595 and was used to float wood until the beginning of the 19th century. By quickly emptying the pond, the wood could be floated with the flood wave via the Lüssel and Birs to Basel. Today the pond is an important spawning area for amphibians. Instead of cowbells, we can still hear the ringing of the "Glögglifrosches", the call of the rare midwife toad, which is reminiscent of a distant bell ringing.
Source: wwf-bs.ch
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Basler Weiher
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Stritteren Weiher
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Basler Weiher Rest Area
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Pond with a wooden jetty near Reigoldswil
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Tips from the Community
The Baslerweier is an artificial lake that served as a drinking water supply for Basel for 70 years from 1870. Today it belongs to the canton of Solothurn and is a nature reserve. A true idyll!
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The Baslerweiher (also Basler Weiher or Baslerweier) is a small lake in the municipality of Seewen in the Swiss canton of Solothurn. It is located in the Jura, has an average water level of 560 m above sea level and an area of approx. 1.7 ha. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baslerweiher
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Very nice place with benches for a short stop!
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In fact, it is not a small lake but a deliberately created pond. The Basel pond was built in 1870. It was intended as a large water reservoir, so to speak as a reserve for the Grellinger water pipe to Basel and was not dug up but simply dammed.
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The lake is in a small valley. It is speared by a stream that the children enjoy. At the lake there is a farm where you can buy various things.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I expect to find around Meltingen?
Meltingen itself is characterized by river valleys and a karst landscape rather than large natural lakes. The 'lakes' in the broader region are primarily artificial ponds and reservoirs, many of which have been transformed into nature reserves. Examples include the Basler Weiher, an artificial lake that is now the largest in the Canton of Solothurn, and the tranquil Stritteren Weiher.
Are there any nature reserves or protected areas around these lakes?
Yes, the Basler Weiher, originally an artificial drinking water reservoir, is now a designated nature reserve. This area offers a true idyll for nature lovers.
What unique natural features characterize the area around Meltingen, beyond the lakes?
Beyond the artificial lakes, the Meltingen area is renowned for its mystical and wild-romantic karst landscape known as the Chaltbrunnetal (Kaltbrunnental). This valley features steep rock faces up to 60 meters high, numerous caves, and creeks that flow through an underground cave system. It's a significant natural attraction with unique geological formations.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Meltingen?
Yes, the region offers various hiking opportunities. You can find trails that lead past the lakes and through the unique Chaltbrunnetal valley. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Meltingen guide, which includes routes like the 'Chastelbach Waterfall – Chaltbrunnental Waterfall loop'.
What other outdoor activities are available near Meltingen's lakes?
Besides hiking, the area around Meltingen is suitable for gravel biking and mountain hikes. You can find routes like 'Birs near Soyhières – Grand Étang de la Réselle loop' in the Gravel biking around Meltingen guide, and more challenging trails in the Mountain Hikes around Meltingen guide.
Are there family-friendly lakes or spots for a break?
Absolutely. The Pond with a wooden jetty near Reigoldswil is particularly family-friendly and is located near an overview map highlighting various trails. Additionally, the Basler Weiher Rest Area offers an idyllic spot with benches for a short break.
Can I find picnic or barbecue areas near the lakes?
Yes, the Ryfensteinweiher Picnic Area is a great option. It features a beautiful covered picnic area with good infrastructure, including an outdoor grill, making it suitable for a stop even when it rains.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes around Meltingen?
Near the Stritteren Weiher, you can find historical lime kilns, which add a cultural element to the natural setting. The broader Chaltbrunnetal area is also significant for its prehistoric sites, with evidence of Neanderthal use over 30,000 years ago, and historical military monuments like the 'Wappenfelsen' at Chessiloch.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and natural areas near Meltingen?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of spots like Stritteren Weiher for a quiet break. The Basler Weiher is often described as an 'absolute dream,' especially in autumn, and is valued for its idyllic nature reserve status.
Is there parking available for visiting these lake areas?
While specific parking details for each lake are not always highlighted, areas popular for hiking and recreation, such as those around the Chaltbrunnetal and the various 'Weiher' (ponds), typically have designated parking spots nearby to accommodate visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes and natural areas near Meltingen?
The natural areas and lakes around Meltingen can be enjoyed throughout the year. Autumn is particularly recommended by visitors for its scenic beauty, especially around the Basler Weiher. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter can provide a unique, tranquil experience.
Are the trails around the lakes suitable for beginners?
Many of the trails in the region, particularly those around the smaller ponds and through the Chaltbrunnetal, offer varying difficulty levels. While some mountain hikes can be challenging, there are also easier walks suitable for beginners and families. It's advisable to check specific route details in the Hiking around Meltingen guide for difficulty ratings.
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