Top 20 Lakes around St. Stephan
Best lakes around St. Stephan, a municipality in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland, offer access to diverse aquatic landscapes. This region is characterized by its alpine setting, providing picturesque lakes nestled within mountainous backdrops and nature reserves. These natural features create opportunities for outdoor activities and quiet enjoyment of the Swiss alpine environment. The area is known for its serene settings and clear mountain waters.
Best lakes around St. Stephan
- The most popular lakes is Seebergsee, a lake situated…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Lauenensee (Lake Lauenen)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Seebergsee
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Rüwliseeli
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Rohr Nature Reserve (Lauenen)
Highlight • Natural Monument
Rohr is a vast, flat moorland and floodplain area directly above Lauenen – nestled in a tranquil, wildly romantic landscape with reed beds, the …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Rüwlis Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around St. Stephan.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around St. Stephan
Finest routes for pleasure cyclists – Lenk and the Simmental
Discover the most beautiful MTB trails in Lenk-Simmental
100% Women: essential Switzerland on a gravel bike
MTB Trails around St. Stephan
Road Cycling Routes around St. Stephan
Hiking around St. Stephan
Cycling around St. Stephan
Gravel biking around St. Stephan
Running Trails around St. Stephan
Mountain Hikes around St. Stephan
Other adventures around St. Stephan
Tips from the Community
Rohr Nature Reserve near Lauenen (BE) Rohr is a vast, flat moorland and floodplain area directly above Lauenen – nestled in a tranquil, wildly romantic landscape with reed beds, the Lauibach stream, and characteristically shaped haystacks, the so-called "Tristen." Thanks to its diverse flora and birdlife, it is considered a floodplain area of national importance. 🚶 Outdoor Circular Trail – Tour Data A family-friendly circular trail takes approximately 1 hour (5.4 km, 10–11 m elevation gain) through the area – popular in both summer and winter. Difficulty: easy (T1-T2), also ideal for strollers. Route: Starts from Lauenen (e.g., Hotel Alpenland/Lauenen Rohrbrücke), along the Lauibach stream and later through flat moorland – with an optional extra loop to the Oey (1.8 km). Winter: As a cleared winter hiking trail and cross-country ski trail (skating/classic). 🌿 Pure nature: hedgerows, reed beds, bird nesting sites, and natural management with litter mowing and barnacle construction – demonstrates traditional mountain meadow management. Picturesque in winter: snow-covered plains, visible logs and haystacks – tranquil, sunny, and atmospheric. Infrastructure: Accessible circular route with low elevation gain, ideal for walkers and runners.
0
0
🚗 Zweisimmen is easily accessible by car or public transport. You can park in Zweisimmen or arrive by train. Zweisimmen train station is an ideal starting point for the hike. 🚶♂️ The hike from Zweisimmen to Seebergsee is challenging and takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and breaks. The route is well signposted and takes you through varied landscapes with forests, alpine pastures and alpine meadows. Start the hike in the village of Zweisimmen. Follow the signs towards Seebergsee. The path initially leads you through picturesque forests and along streams. The climb to Seebergsee is strenuous, but the effort is worth it. Along the way you will have wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Seebergsee is at an altitude of 1,831 meters and is surrounded by an impressive mountain backdrop. Here you can take a longer break, enjoy the view and maybe take a refreshing swim in the clear mountain lake. 📸 🍽️ There are no staffed huts at Seebergsee, so you should take enough provisions and water with you. 📅 The best time for this hike is from June to October, when the paths are free of snow and easy to walk on.
2
1
Beautiful lake with magnificent flowers, trees and 🔝 mountain views.
2
0
Easy climb and a unique landscape as a reward.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around St. Stephan unique?
The lakes around St. Stephan are unique for their picturesque settings within the Bernese Oberland, offering diverse aquatic landscapes. They are nestled within mountainous backdrops and nature reserves, providing serene environments and clear mountain waters. Many are high-altitude lakes, contributing to their pristine beauty.
Which lakes near St. Stephan are suitable for families?
For families, Lauenensee (Lake Lauenen) is an excellent choice. It's located within a wide nature reserve and offers various bathing and fire places, a restaurant, and rowboat rentals, making it ideal for a longer stay with children.
Can I swim in the lakes around St. Stephan?
Yes, several lakes offer swimming opportunities. Lauenensee (Lake Lauenen) has designated bathing places. Seebergsee is known for its clear waters, where you can take a refreshing, albeit cold, swim. Lake Elsig is also mentioned as a super mountain lake for swimming.
Are there hiking opportunities to reach these lakes?
Absolutely. A challenging but rewarding 4 to 5-hour hike from Zweisimmen leads to Seebergsee, offering stunning views. Rüwliseeli is found near the Rüwlis Pass, which is part of a unique landscape with moors and Alps, accessible via hiking trails.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near St. Stephan?
The best time to visit many of the mountain lakes, such as Seebergsee, is from June to October. During this period, the paths are generally free of snow and easy to walk on, and the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities.
Are there quiet or secluded lakes for a peaceful experience?
Yes, Lake Elsig is noted for its tranquil environment and often offers absolute silence, making it ideal for quiet enjoyment of nature. It features barbecue areas and benches for a peaceful retreat.
How can I get to the lakes around St. Stephan using public transport or by car?
For Seebergsee, Zweisimmen is accessible by car or public transport. You can park in Zweisimmen or arrive by train, which serves as an ideal starting point for the hike. For private car access to the Seebergsee Alphütte from Zwischenflüh, you need to purchase a ticket for the private road.
Are there facilities like barbecue areas or restaurants at the lakes?
Yes, Lauenensee (Lake Lauenen) provides various fire and bathing places, as well as a restaurant. Lake Elsig also features barbecue areas and benches for visitors.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes around St. Stephan?
The region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find gravel biking routes, such as the 'Gestelen Pass – Seebergsee loop from Zweisimmen', which includes Seebergsee. There are also general cycling and MTB trails available. For more details on routes, explore the Gravel biking around St. Stephan, MTB Trails around St. Stephan, and Cycling around St. Stephan guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near St. Stephan?
Visitors frequently praise the serene atmosphere and natural beauty. Many appreciate the clear mountain waters for swimming and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The unique moor landscapes, like those near Rüwliseeli, also offer relaxing experiences.
Are there any specific natural reserves or protected areas around these lakes?
Yes, Lauenensee (Lake Lauenen) is located within a wide nature reserve featuring moorlands, highlighting the region's commitment to preserving its natural environment. The area around Rüwliseeli also features a unique landscape characterized by moors.
Most popular routes around St. Stephan
Most popular attractions around St. Stephan
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around St. Stephan? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
