Top 20 Lakes around Wetzikon

The two most significant lakes near Wetzikon are Pfäffikersee and Greifensee. Both offer distinct natural beauty and a variety of recreational activities.

Yes, both Pfäffikersee and Greifensee offer excellent hiking opportunities. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail is a popular 9-kilometer route known for its continuous views of mountains and nature, passing through unique moorland landscapes. For more hiking options, you can explore various routes in the Hiking around Wetzikon guide.

Pfäffikersee is a nationally important nature reserve, featuring distinctive upland and low-moor flora, extensive reed belts, and the Robenhauser Ried wetland. It provides a habitat for numerous plant and bird species, making it ideal for nature observation. You can experience these features directly on the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail.

Absolutely. Pfäffikersee has three lidos (bathing areas) – Auslikon, Pfäffikon, and Seegräben – which are family-friendly and offer pebble beaches and spacious lawns. The circular path around Pfäffikersee is also suitable for strollers. Near Pfäffikersee, the Jucker Farm offers additional entertainment for families. Greifensee also features scenic paths suitable for families, and boat trips are a popular activity.

Yes, cycling is very popular. The Greifensee Cycling Path is well-known for its wide cycle paths, allowing for fast rides along the lake. The circular trail around Pfäffikersee is also suitable for cycling. For more cycling routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Wetzikon guide.

Yes, the area around Pfäffikersee has a rich history, with evidence of prehistoric pile dwellings (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the ruins of the Roman fort Irgenhausen nearby. At Greifensee, you can visit Greifensee Castle, which dates back to around 1250 and was once the residence of Zurich's governors.

At Pfäffikersee, you can enjoy bathing at its lidos, and SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) and boat rentals are available. Greifensee offers regular boat services, including special culinary and nostalgic trips on the historic steamship 'Grief' seasonally.

Yes, the popular nine-kilometer circular trail around Pfäffikersee is ideal for hiking, cycling, and is also suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering continuous views of the mountains and nature.

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant natural colors. Summer is ideal for swimming and water activities. In cold winters, if Pfäffikersee freezes over, it becomes a popular spot for ice skating and strolling.

While the immediate lake areas are generally flatter, the broader region around Wetzikon offers mountain hiking opportunities. You can find various routes in the Mountain Hikes around Wetzikon guide, with options like the Hörnli loop from Steg.

Greifensee is a favorite excursion destination due to its extensive nature conservation areas, boasting diverse flora and over 120 species of migratory birds. It's popular for walking, cycling, and inline skating, and offers boat services. The charming old town of Greifensee, with its castle, is also a significant draw.

Yes, both lakes offer scenic viewpoints. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail provides continuous views of the mountains and nature. At Greifensee, the cycling path offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Additionally, the View of Rapperswil's Old Town and Castle offers a great perspective over Lake Zurich, which is also nearby.