Top 20 Lakes around La Roche
Best lakes around La Roche encompass diverse aquatic landscapes across France, Belgium, and Switzerland. In France, areas like La Roche-sur-Yon feature artificial reservoirs such as Lac de Rochereau and Lac de la Bultière, primarily serving as drinking water sources and recreational hubs. Belgium's La Roche-en-Ardenne offers Lake Nisramont, known for water sports and hiking. Switzerland's La Roche, Fribourg, is near Lake Gruyère, a large artificial lake with historical islands and varied recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around La Roche
- The most popular lake is Montsalvens Dam, a man-made monument that offers a wide, open view over the lake. This small but impressive dam was built between 1918 and 1920.
- Another must-see spot is Fuchses Schwyberg, a summit offering a beautiful vantage point over the Schwarzsee. From here, visitors have several options to extend their tour or descend directly to Schwarzsee.
- Visitors also love Greyerzersee Dam, an imposing structure providing a new perspective on the reservoir. This dam offers a beautiful view of the third largest reservoir in Switzerland.
- La Roche is known for artificial lakes, natural sites, and recreational swimming areas. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, from large drinking water reservoirs to scenic spots for hiking and water sports.
- The lakes around La Roche are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 390 upvotes and over 180 photos shared.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Lake Schwarzsee
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Montsalvens Dam
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Montsalvens Lake Suspension Bridge
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Schwarzsee (Black Lake)
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There is also food and drink available directly along the route. The Jailhouse Rohr restaurant serves delicious burgers and more. Restaurant only open in the winter season (from the beginning of December to the end of March), the rest of the year rental premises.
At the health center there is the “fein & sein” where you are well served and have a beautiful terrace that invites you to linger.
Length of the additional loop 4.5 km with 123 meters in altitude. If you leave out the Rohrmoos and only do the part up to Schlossisboden then down to the Burstera district and back along the Sense, the additional loop is 2.8 km with 111 meters in altitude.
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Fuchses Schwyberg
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Popular around La Roche
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Hiking around La Roche
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Great views of the Swiss Plateau and the Freiburg Pre-Alps opposite.
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The Schwarzsee, also known as Lac Noir, is idyllically situated in the canton of Fribourg (Sense district) and is part of the Gantrisch Nature Park. With its deep, dark water and surrounding peaks such as Kaiseregg (2185 m), Schafberg, and Spitzfluh, the lake offers a fascinating panorama. 🌅 Highlights & Activities Surroundings & Nature: The moorland and alpine pastures surrounding the lake are rich in species – with cotton grass, reeds, coots, and dragonflies – ideal for walks and nature observation. Leisure & Recreation: The Schwarzsee is ideal for hiking, swimming, paddling (SUP), or simply lounging on the shore. Accessible for hikes or conveniently by chairlift to Riggisalp – with alpine huts and restaurants. Legends & Experiences: Themed trails with legends from the Sense region, mystical landscapes in the Breccaschlund valley, and spectacular ice palaces in winter attract visitors year-round.
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At the artificial lake of Montsalvens, in the Gruyère region of Switzerland, on the 9 km loop, you will encounter a 60 meter long suspension bridge which will enhance your run and offer you a breathtaking view of the lake.
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This is the oldest double arch dam in Europe, built in the early 1920s. It creates a beautiful artificial lake that you can walk around in around 3 hours. With its calm waters on one side and the magnificent and exhilarating waterfall on the other, this is an event not to be missed.
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View from Fuchses Schwyberg to Schwarzsee and towards Kaiseregg
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The Schwarzsee is located in the Freiburg Alps and is known for its originality. The wildly romantic natural backdrop around the mountain lake and the Breccaschlund, an alpine valley formed by glaciers, are the jewels of the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around La Roche?
The lakes around La Roche are diverse, ranging from large artificial reservoirs primarily used for drinking water and recreation, such as Lac de Rochereau and Lac de la Bultière in France, to hydroelectric lakes like Lake Nisramont in Belgium. In Switzerland, you'll find significant artificial lakes like Lake Gruyère, known for its scenic beauty and historical sites.
Are there any historical sites or unique natural features on the lakes?
Yes, on Lake Gruyère in Switzerland, you can visit Ogoz Island. This small island features the ruins of medieval castles and a chapel. It's accessible by boat, or even on foot during spring when water levels are low. The island offers a unique blend of history and nature.
Where can I find impressive viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
For stunning views, consider visiting Montsalvens Dam, which offers a wide, open view over the lake. Another excellent spot is Fuchses Schwyberg, providing a beautiful vantage point over the Schwarzsee. The Greyerzersee Dam also provides an imposing structure with beautiful views of Switzerland's third-largest reservoir.
What water sports are popular on the lakes around La Roche?
Many lakes offer a variety of water sports. For instance, Lac de Rochereau and Lac de Moulin Papon in France are popular for windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Lake Nisramont in Belgium is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle. Lake Gruyère in Switzerland also welcomes stand-up paddle, canoeing, and sailing.
Are there good opportunities for fishing in the lakes?
Absolutely. Lac de Rochereau is a prime destination for fishing, with a rich diversity of white fish, predatory fish, and carp. Lac de la Bultière is renowned for its exceptional fish population, including perch, pike, zander, and carp. Lake Nisramont is also an ideal location for fishing.
Which lakes are suitable for hiking and walking?
Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. Lac de Rochereau has a 9-kilometer hiking trail, while Lac de la Bultière features a 15-kilometer path ideal for walks and runs. Lac de Moulin Papon's 19-kilometer perimeter is perfect for hiking. In Belgium, a challenging 14-kilometer walk encircles Lake Nisramont. The shores of Lake Gruyère in Switzerland are also popular for hiking.
Are there family-friendly lake options with amenities?
Yes, the Baignade de la Roche Posay in France offers a clear swimming area with deckchairs, a playground, canoe rentals, a volleyball court, a zip line, and slides, making it a comfortable escape for families. Lac de Rochereau also includes a picnic area and a children's play area.
Can I find cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find numerous road cycling routes around La Roche, including those that pass by the Rossens Dam and offer views of Lake Gruyère. For more adventurous riders, there are also gravel biking routes available. You can explore these options in the Road Cycling Routes around La Roche and Gravel biking around La Roche guides.
Are there running trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails available. For example, you can find a 14.6 km running loop around La Combert and Lake Gruyère starting from La Roche. Other running routes explore areas like Gros Cousimbert. More details can be found in the Running Trails around La Roche guide.
Which lakes are known for their biodiversity and birdwatching?
Lac du Marillet in France is celebrated for its rich biodiversity. Birdwatchers can spot European orioles and nightingales, while kingfishers and numerous dragonflies are also common. The wider La Brenne Regional Nature Park, encompassing La Roche-Posay, is known as 'the land of 1000 lakes' and offers diverse fauna and flora, making it excellent for nature observation.
Are there any lakes where swimming is prohibited?
Yes, swimming is prohibited in Lac du Marillet in France. Additionally, in Belgium, swimming is not allowed in Lake Nisramont. Always check local regulations before planning to swim in any lake.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around La Roche?
Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the wide, open views over lakes from dams like Montsalvens Dam, to the beautiful vantage points over areas like Schwarzsee from Fuchses Schwyberg. The blend of recreational activities, natural beauty, and unique historical sites like Ogoz Island makes the region highly appealing.
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