Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland, is located in the heart of the Blüemlisalp massif, surrounded by a wild, romantic rocky basin. This natural wonder, part of the UNESCO World Heritage, enchants visitors with its pristine beauty and tranquility.
The Beauty of Nature and Enjoying the Company of Cows Oeschinensee offers spectacular views of mountain peaks reflected in the calm waters of the lake. The mountain trails leading to the lake provide breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine peaks and lush forest areas. Hiking to the lake takes about 30 minutes, and the trail is accessible with proper footwear (rocky path). It is also advisable to bring a jacket for summer in case of unfavorable weather conditions.
Oeschinensee is a glacial lake formed around 15,000 years ago during the last ice age. The lake is believed to be the result of erosion by glaciers that receded centuries ago. Nearby, various alpine plants and flowers grow, including rare species that cannot be found in lower regions. Among many plants, we also spotted wild raspberries. The fauna includes mountain goats, deer, and occasionally, eagles and other birds of prey.
During the winter months, Oeschinensee transforms into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. You can ski in the nearby ski resort. In winter, the lake is often covered with snow and ice, providing ideal conditions for winter sports. Oeschinensee and its surroundings are also known for their rich cultural heritage. Many locals still practice traditional methods of animal husbandry and agriculture. The village festival held every summer celebrates the local culture and customs, offering visitors the opportunity to experience traditional ways of life.
Ecological Awareness at Its Peak Due to its ecological value, the area around Oeschinensee is protected as a nature reserve. This helps preserve natural resources and protect habitats for many plant and animal species that depend on this specific ecosystem.
Around the lake, visitors can enjoy various activities. The mountain toboggan, which operates only in dry weather, provides exciting rides with panoramic views of nature. Fishermen will find pleasure in fishing at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, where boats can be rented – the price for a half-day ride is 60 CHF, and for a full-day ride, 100 CHF.
For nature lovers and gastronomic pleasures, there are numerous dining options nearby. Guests can enjoy regional specialties such as meat dishes from local farms, as well as a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Agriculture and Traditional Life One of the most unique aspects of Oeschinensee is the presence of cows grazing on the surrounding meadows. These cows, which provide milk for famous Swiss cheeses, are an integral part of traditional alpine life and play an important role in local agriculture. Their presence adds an authentic charm to this idyllic agritourism destination. Everywhere you walk, you’ll hear the bells around the necks of these animals. In most cases, they love to pose for photos and approach tourists, but visitors are kindly asked not to feed them, as they have plenty of food and there is a risk that the food might not be suitable for them.
Oeschinensee offers enchanting views of mountain peaks reflected in the calm waters of the lake. Fishing Enthusiasts Will Love This Destination Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy fishing at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, where boats can be rented for 60 CHF for a half-day ride and 100 CHF for a full-day ride. Nearby restaurants such as „Oeschinensee“, offering regional specialties, and „Bergstübli“, where visitors can enjoy simple but delicious dishes, are also worth visiting. If you plan to fish, you must have a valid permit.
To make tourists’ stay even more comfortable, there is an electric car that takes guests free of charge from the cable car station to the lake. This eco-friendly transport allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of Oeschinensee without worrying about extra effort.
Oeschinensee is truly a unique destination offering beautiful landscapes, diverse activities, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you come to relax by the calm waters of the lake or explore its natural and cultural wonders, this place will leave a lasting impression on all of its visitors.
We visited this place in the morning, and by noon, many tourists and hikers arrived, making it quite busy. If you prefer a quieter experience, we recommend coming early.