Turquoise lake in Swiss Alps
Category

Hike

Price

$

Est. Duration

4-6h

Message from Laura

Oeschinen Lake, located in the Bernese Alps near the village of Kandersteg, is nestled at an altitude of approximately 1,578 metres and is surrounded by towering peaks, including the Blüemlisalp and Doldenhorn mountains. Oeschinensee is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

🩵The lake's vivid blue colour is due to the purity of its glacial waters, which reflect the sky and surrounding rocks.

🚠Accessible by cable car or a scenic hike, this picturesque spot offers activities like hiking, swimming in icy blue waters, boating and thrilling mountain coaster rides in summer.

⛸️In winter, you can enjoy sledging, skiing, ice skating, and even ice fishing on the frozen lake.

Cable car Round-Trip Tickets:

Adults: Approx CHF 30-35

Children (aged 6-15): Approx CHF 15-18

Children under 6: Free

🥾Hiking trails:

🩵Oeschinensee Panorama Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance: Approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles)

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

This scenic loop trail is perfect for families and casual hikers. It starts at the upper station of the Oeschinensee cable car and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail takes you along the lakeshore, providing numerous spots to take photos, rest, and enjoy the views. It's relatively flat but includes some gentle inclines.

🩵Oberbärgli Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) round trip

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Starting from the lake's eastern shore, this trail leads to the mountain hut Oberbärgli. The path ascends gradually and offers spectacular views of Oeschinensee from above. Once at Oberbärgli,you can enjoy traditional Swiss food and stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. This hike involves some elevation gain and is recommended for those with a moderate level of fitness.

🩵Heuberg Panorama Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: Approximately 8 km (5 miles)round trip

Duration: 3 to 4 hours

The Heuberg Panorama Trail offers some of the best views in the region. The trail starts at the Oeschinensee cable car station and climbs up to the Heuberg plateau. The path is well-marked and provides panoramic views of the lake, the Doldenhorn massif, and the surrounding Alps. This trail includes some steep sections. So please take care.

🩵Oberbärgli to Oeschinensee

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) one way

Duration: 2-3 hours

This trail starts from the upper part of the lake area and leads to the Oberbärgli, a high alpine pasture. The path offers stunning views over the lake and surrounding glaciers. The trail involves a moderate climb and traverses some rugged terrain, making it suitable for more experienced hikers. The Oberbärgli area provides an excellent viewpoint and a place to rest before heading back or continuing on other trails.

🩵Oeschinensee to Fründenhütte

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: Approximately 8 km (5 miles) one way

Duration: 3-4 hours one way

This more challenging hike leads from Oeschinensee to the Fründenhütte, a mountain hut situated at an elevation of 2,562 metres (8,405 feet). The trail offers spectacular views of the Fründen Glacier and the lake below. The route is steep and involves significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced hikers. The Fründenhütte offers basic accommodations and meals, making it a good base for further alpine exploration.

🩵Kandersteg to Oeschinensee

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) one way

Duration: 1.5-2 hours one way

This trail starts in the village of Kandersteg and leads up to Oeschinensee. It is a scenic and slightly more challenging alternative to taking the cable car. The path winds through forests and meadows, with occasional views of the surrounding mountains. This hike provides a more immersive experience in the local landscape, culminating in the stunning arrival at Oeschinensee.

🩵Oeschinensee to Blüemlisalphütte

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) one way

Duration: 5-6 hours one way

For those seeking a challenging alpine adventure, the hike to Blüemlisalphütte offers breathtaking views and a rewarding experience. The route involves a significant climb and traverses alpine terrain, including rocky sections and glacier crossings. The Blüemlisalphütte, located at an altitude of 2,843 metres, provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

🎢Mountain Coaster:

Adults : chf 6 / children: chf 5

Open: late May to mid-October, weather permitting

The mountain coaster Oeschinensee Rodelbahn, is a popular summer attraction located near the upper station of the Oeschinensee cable car. This thrilling ride offers a fun way to experience the landscape. The mountain coaster is a gravity-driven, bobsled-style ride that runs on a metal track. Riders sit in individual sleds equipped with brakes, allowing them to control the speed of their descent.

Best Time to Visit Oeschinensee: The best time to visit  is late spring to early autumn, when the hiking trails and lake are accessible. In winter, the area is popular for snow sports, but activities like hiking and boating may be limited.

I recommend you start your day early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the tranquil environment. Enjoy 🥰

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