Top 3 Lakes around Sarnersee
Best lakes around Sarnersee are found in the canton of Obwalden, Switzerland, with Sarnersee being the largest lake in the region. It lies 469 meters above sea level, spanning approximately 7.5 square kilometers, and is fed by rivers such as the Grosse Melchaa and Sarner Aa. The lake is about 6 kilometers long and between 1 and 1.5 kilometers wide, with the municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln, and Giswil on its shores. This area offers a blend of lake, forest, and mountain scenery, providing various recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around Sarnersee
- The most popular lakes is View of Lake Sarnen, a viewpoint that offers a beautiful route with scenic vistas. This section on the west side of the lake transitions from a wide road to a narrow, well-paved path through the woods.
- Another must-see spot is View of Lake Sarnen (Sarnersee) from Sachseln, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the largest lake in Obwalden. Visitors can expect to see the lake's expanse, which is located in the area of Sarnen, Sachseln, and Giswil.
- Visitors also love Lake Sarnen, a lake described as a beautifully landscaped body of water with a blue-green color when viewed from above. It provides many recreational opportunities for those visiting the area.
- Sarnersee is known for its large lake and numerous viewpoints. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, providing diverse natural landscapes.
- The lakes around Sarnersee are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 360 upvotes and 15 photos shared by users.
Last updated: June 3, 2026
Lake Sarnen
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View of Lake Sarnen (Sarnersee) from Sachseln
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The Sarnersee is the largest lake in the canton of Obwalden. It is located in the area of the municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln and Giswil. The lake, which lies 469 meters above sea level, is fed by the Grosse Melchaa, the Dreiwässerkanal and the Sarner Aa, among others. The latter flows out of the lake at the northern end near Sarnen before flowing into the Alpnachersee at the valley exit. The Sarnersee is a good six kilometers long, between one and one and a half kilometers wide and thus has an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers.
Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch
schweizersee.ch/sarnersee
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View of Lake Sarnen
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The Sarnersee is the largest lake in the canton of Obwalden. It is located in the area of the municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln and Giswil. The lake, which lies 469 meters above sea level, is fed by the Grosse Melchaa, the Dreiwässerkanal and the Sarner Aa, among others. The latter flows out of the lake at the northern end near Sarnen before flowing into the Alpnachersee at the valley exit. The Sarnersee is a good six kilometers long, between one and one and a half kilometers wide and thus has an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers.
Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch
schweizersee.ch/sarnersee
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View of Lake Sarnen
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Very beautiful section on the west side of the lake - between Oberwilen and meistteil the previously wide road becomes a narrow, single-lane, but well-paved path.
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Sarnersee The Sarnersee is the largest lake in the canton of Obwalden. It is located in the area of the municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln and Giswil. The lake, which lies 469 meters above sea level, is fed by the Grosse Melchaa, the Dreiwässerkanal and the Sarner Aa, among others. The latter flows out of the lake at the northern end near Sarnen before flowing into the Alpnachersee at the valley exit. The Sarnersee is a good six kilometers long, between one and one and a half kilometers wide and thus has an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/sarnersee/
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Sarnersee The Sarnersee is the largest lake in the canton of Obwalden. It is located in the area of the municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln and Giswil. The lake, which lies 469 meters above sea level, is fed by the Grosse Melchaa, the Dreiwässerkanal and the Sarner Aa, among others. The latter flows out of the lake at the northern end near Sarnen before flowing into the Alpnachersee at the valley exit. The Sarnersee is a good six kilometers long, between one and one and a half kilometers wide and thus has an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/sarnersee/
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From here you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Sarnen, framed by lush forests and rolling mountains. The peaceful blue of the lake contrasts beautifully with its green valley setting, giving you a perfect vantage point to admire the picturesque Swiss landscape.
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Lake Sarnen is a lake in the heart of Oblalden
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Wonderfully beautiful view of the lake
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From Sarnen you first drive between a single car on this road with a beautiful view of the lake. At the end you suddenly drive through the woods, wonderfully quiet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Sarnersee a special destination?
The lakes in the Sarnersee region, particularly Lake Sarnen itself, are renowned for their picturesque pre-Alpine setting. Framed by lush forests and rolling mountains, the serene blue waters offer panoramic views. The area provides a blend of natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, from swimming and boating to easy hiking trails.
Are there good viewpoints to appreciate Lake Sarnen?
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. Visitors frequently enjoy the View of Lake Sarnen (Sarnersee) from Sachseln, which offers a broad perspective of the lake. Other popular spots include the general View of Lake Sarnen and a particularly scenic section on the west side of the lake, highlighted as another View of Lake Sarnen.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Lake Sarnen?
Beyond the lake itself, the region boasts diverse natural landscapes. You'll find lush forests, rolling mountains, and picturesque rural areas. The area also features unique moorland landscapes, especially around Glaubenberg Pass, and the Wichelsee Nature Reserve, known for its rich plant life and waterfowl.
Are there hiking trails suitable for families around Sarnersee?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly hiking options. You can explore routes like the 'View of Lake Sarnen – Riverbed Access loop from Sachseln,' which is an easy 6.5 km walk. For more options, check out the Family-friendly hikes around Sarnersee guide.
Can I find dog-friendly trails near the lakes?
Absolutely. The area around Sarnersee is welcoming for dogs. There are trails such as the 'Wichelsee – Wichelsee Nature Reserve loop from Sarnen Nord,' a moderate 12.5 km route. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Dog-friendly hikes around Sarnersee guide.
What are the options for running or jogging around Lake Sarnen?
Lake Sarnen is a popular spot for runners. You can find routes like the 'View of Lake Sarnen – Sarnen Lakeside Promenade loop from Sachseln,' a moderate 6.9 km run. For more detailed running routes, explore the Running Trails around Sarnersee guide.
What recreational activities are available on Lake Sarnen itself?
Lake Sarnen is a hub for water-based recreation. You can enjoy refreshing swims at lidos in Giswil, Wilen, and Sachseln, or visit the adventure pool at Seefeld Park in Sarnen. For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely tour on the motorboat 'Seestern'.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Sarnersee for outdoor activities?
The warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, and all recreational facilities are fully operational. The scenic beauty is particularly vibrant in summer and early autumn.
How can I access the lakes and trails using public transport?
The municipalities of Sarnen, Sachseln, and Giswil are situated on the shores of Lake Sarnen and are well-connected by public transport. You can reach these towns by train, and local buses often provide access to various trailheads and lakeside areas. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes to your desired starting points.
Are there places to eat or stay near Lake Sarnen with good views?
Yes, the towns along the lake, such as Sarnen, Sachseln, and Giswil, offer various cafes, restaurants, and accommodations. Many establishments are situated directly on the lake or in elevated positions, providing beautiful views of Lake Sarnen and the surrounding landscape. Look for lakeside restaurants or hotels for the best scenic dining and lodging experiences.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about Lake Sarnen?
Visitors consistently praise the serene beauty and the wide array of recreational opportunities. Many describe Lake Sarnen as a 'beautifully landscaped lake' that resembles a 'pearl with its blue-green color' from above. The combination of stunning views, opportunities for swimming, boating, and scenic walks makes it a highly cherished destination.
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