Best lakes around Plaffeien are situated in a pre-Alpine landscape, characterized by limestone mountains such as Kaiseregg. The region centers around Schwarzsee, a prominent lake at an elevation of 1050 meters, known for its waters that shift in color. Historically, Plaffeien was a wellness retreat, with sulphur springs established as early as 1750. The area offers diverse natural settings for year-round activities and is recognized for its family-friendly environment.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
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The Schwarzsee circular path is a leisurely, approximately 4 km loop around the idyllic Schwarzsee in the Fribourg Prealps. With around 50 meters of elevation gain, the route is easy and well-suited for a relaxed walk – also for families. The two sides of the lake are slightly different in terms of landscape: on the road side, there are few direct views of the lake due to the dense reeds. The opposite side, on the other hand, leads through a beautiful forest that offers pleasant shade on warm days. Along the circular path, there are benches for resting and portable toilets. In several places, there is the opportunity to swim directly in the Schwarzsee, so the loop can be easily combined with a swimming break. A special highlight is the Schwarzsee dragon, which is part of the Häxewääg. With the press of a button, the dragon can be activated – it hisses, growls, and spits water. The station simultaneously tells part of the legend surrounding the creation of the Schwarzsee. The Schwarzsee is located at around 1050 m above sea level and is surrounded by the Fribourg Prealps and a beautiful mountain landscape. Distance: approx. 4 km Elevation gain: approx. 50 m Difficulty: easy Suitable for: Walk, family outing, swimming trip Special features: Benches, toilets, swimming spots, forest sections, and the Schwarzsee dragon
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Great views of the Swiss Plateau and the Freiburg Pre-Alps opposite.
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A leisurely, approximately 4km circular trail leads around the picturesque Schwarzsee lake – ideal for families, connoisseurs, and nature lovers. 🔹 Duration: approx. 1–1.5 hours 🔹 Elevation gain: barely noticeable, flat, and stroller-friendly 🔹 Highlights: Themed trail with legendary figures, playgrounds, barbecue areas, and a panoramic lake view 🔹 Tip: A short detour to the waterfall on the southeast shore is worthwhile! Perfect for a relaxing day trip – with a view of the Kaiseregg and surrounded by the mystical atmosphere of the Alpine foothills. 🌿🦢🪵
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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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and another two meters higher so that you can really see the lake ;)
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The Stierenberg viewpoint is the highest peak between the Suhre and Aabach valleys, and offers breathtaking views of the Schwarzsee, the surrounding mountains and the Mittelland. You can also admire an imposing sycamore maple which sits on the hiking trail, and rest on a bench which invites you to stroll. The Stierenberg viewpoint is accessible by different routes, such as that of Val-de-Charmey in the Gruyère district. You'll be rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment after reaching the top of this forested mountain.
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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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The lakes in the Plaffeien region are set within a pre-Alpine landscape, surrounded by limestone mountains like Kaiseregg. Schwarzsee, the most prominent lake, is known for its waters that change color from turquoise to black depending on the light. The area also has a history as a wellness retreat, with sulphur springs dating back to 1750.
Yes, the Schwarzsee region has received the 'Families Welcome' seal of approval. You'll find child-oriented events, hiking paths accessible for wheelchairs, dedicated playgrounds, and picnic areas. Highlights like Gantrischseeli, Rohrmoos Wetland, and Biber Lake are noted as family-friendly.
The area offers diverse hiking opportunities, from easy walks to more challenging routes. For example, you can enjoy an easy circuit around Schwarzsee, such as the 'Lac Noir — loop' or 'Schwarzsee Lake Circuit'. More moderate options include 'Patraflon by the two valleys — loop from Schwarzsee'. You can explore various hiking routes in the region by visiting the Hiking around Plaffeien guide.
Absolutely. The Plaffeien area provides excellent road cycling routes. Options range from moderate rides like the 'Zaehringen Bridge loop from Schwarzsee' to more difficult ascents such as the 'Gurnigel Ascent – Stierenhütte at Gurnigel Pass loop from Plaffeien'. Find more details in the Road Cycling Routes around Plaffeien guide.
Beyond the dynamic waters of Schwarzsee, you can visit Fuchses Schwyberg, a summit offering expansive panoramic views over Schwarzsee and towards peaks like Kaiseregg. The Rohrmoos Wetland is a small but fine swamp area where you can observe various animals.
The lakes around Plaffeien offer activities year-round. In summer, you can enjoy mountain hikes and rowing on Schwarzsee. In winter, the lake often freezes over, allowing visitors to walk on its surface, and the elaborate Ice Palace at Schwarzsee is a special highlight from Christmas to March.
Yes, the Montsalvens Lake Suspension Bridge offers a unique crossing over the reservoir. It provides a sense of adventure and is often part of longer hiking routes in the area.
Schwarzsee has a rich history, documented as early as 1076. It gained prominence as a wellness retreat with sulphur springs established in 1750, and the first bathhouse was built in 1784. Its growth as a tourist spot accelerated after a road was constructed in 1826, and the lake is also a source of local legends and stories.
Yes, there are several running trails available. An easy option is the 'Lac Noir — loop — running from Schwarzsee'. For more challenging runs, consider the 'Breccaschlund Panorama Trail' or the 'Schwarzsee Two Valleys Loop'. You can find more running routes in the Running Trails around Plaffeien guide.
Yes, Gantrischseeli, a small mountain lake, is ideal for this. Visitors often find its cool waters refreshing for tired feet after a hike, and it offers numerous resting places in a scenic setting.
The Rohrmoos Wetland is a great spot to observe various animals if you pause for a moment. Additionally, the Biber Lake 🙌🤩 is a beaver-dammed forest lake where you might spot signs of beaver activity.


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