Lakes around Randa, a village in the Zermatt-Matterhorn region of Switzerland, offer diverse natural and man-made aquatic environments. The area is characterized by its alpine setting, with lakes nestled amidst mountains and valleys. These bodies of water provide opportunities for recreation and offer views of the surrounding landscape. The region's geology contributes to the variety of lake types found here.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Randa.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Randa
Walker's Haute Route – The ultimate alpine adventure
Between Italy and Switzerland – Tour of Monte Rosa
On the noble rock of the Alps – Cervino Matterhorn Ultra Race
The arena of the 4000ers on the Swiss Tour Monte Rosa
Tour of Monte Rosa – a trek among the Giants between Italy and Switzerland
Spectacular suspension bridges
Road Cycling Routes around Randa
Hiking around Randa
Cycling around Randa
MTB Trails around Randa
I did this hike in early May 2024, just a few days after the ski season was over and the slopes had closed. The valley was completely deserted and it felt magical! The peaks were still covered in snow, but the first signs of spring were beckoning. On the final stretch to Lac d'Arpitetta, I was wading through snow up to my knees. Without proper gear I couldn’t get any farther than the small lake. The view on that crystal-clear spring day was absolutely fantastic! Check the picture I uploaded with all the peak names added.
0
0
The lake takes on a particular color when it is in the sun and you gain height to photograph it
1
0
Very refreshing, our dog was able to bathe easily! On the other hand groups it is fresh, for the more daring
2
0
Lake Arpitettaz is a small mountain lake on the road to Cabane d’Arpitettaz. If you don't want to go to the Cabin, you can also make a loop to return to Zinal via the Roc de la Vache from the Lake. However, there is a trick to getting to Lac d’Arpitettaz from Zinal. If you stay on the right bank of the river, you will have to take a difficult and steep passage called “Pas du Chasseur” where you will have to hang on to chains for part of the way. This is not ideal, especially if you have young children. Instead, stay on the left bank of the river towards the Cabane du Petit Mountet and from there follow the direction of Lac d'Arpitettaz. You will cross the river on a pretty modern bridge. This will add an extra 10 minutes to your hike but above all you will have peace of mind and be able to see the Zinal Waterfall. It's really worth the detour.
2
1
Among the most appreciated lakes are Grünsee, known for its clear water and Matterhorn views, and the expansive Mattmark Reservoir, a significant man-made lake. Visitors also enjoy Moosjisee, recognized for its unique milky color, and the serene Lac d'Arpitettaz, a beautiful mountain lake offering glacier reflections. Additionally, Schalisee near Randa is a popular natural swimming lake.
Yes, swimming is possible in some lakes. Grünsee is ideal for a refreshing dip, and Schalisee is a natural swimming lake with clear, cool glacial water. However, swimming is prohibited in Moosjisee for safety reasons, as it is a reservoir used for snowmaking and electricity generation.
Absolutely. Grünsee is considered family-friendly, offering a relaxing spot for picnics. The Mattmark Reservoir has wide paths suitable for families to walk around. Schalisee is particularly well-equipped for families, featuring tables, benches, barbecue areas, WC facilities, a children's playground, and even a nearby Bike Zone.
The lakes around Randa offer diverse natural features. You'll find glacial lakes like Schalisee with crystal-clear water, mountain lakes such as Lac d'Arpitettaz reflecting glaciers, and reservoirs like Moosjisee with its unique milky color from glacier water. Many lakes provide stunning viewpoints of the surrounding alpine landscape, including the Matterhorn and Klein Matterhorn.
Numerous hiking opportunities exist. The 5-Lakes hiking trail includes Grünsee and Moosjisee. You can walk all the way around the Mattmark Reservoir, which offers both wide paths and hiking trails. For more challenging routes, consider mountain hikes in the region, which you can explore further on the Mountain Hikes around Randa guide.
Yes, the region offers various cycling options. You can find road cycling routes that pass by or near some lakes, such as those around the Mattmark Reservoir. For more adventurous riders, there are also gravel biking trails. Detailed routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Randa guide and the Gravel biking around Randa guide.
The summer months are generally the best time to visit the lakes around Randa, especially for activities like swimming, picnicking, and hiking. The weather is warmer, making glacial lakes like Schalisee perfect for a refreshing dip, and alpine trails are typically clear of snow. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Accessibility varies by lake. Schalisee is easily accessible, located about a 20-minute walk from Täsch railway station. The Mattmark Reservoir can be reached by PostBus to the dam wall. For other lakes, access might involve hiking from nearby villages or trailheads. It's advisable to check specific access details for each lake you plan to visit.
Some lakes offer facilities for visitors. Schalisee is well-equipped with tables, benches, barbecue areas (with wood provided), and nearby WC facilities. Grünsee is also an ideal spot for a picnic. For other lakes, it's best to come prepared with your own supplies, as amenities may be limited.
Moosjisee, an artificially created reservoir, is notable for its distinctive milky color. This hue results from glacier water enriched with suspended matter, giving it the appearance of 'glacier milk'. It's part of the popular 5-Lakes hiking trail and is used for snowmaking and electricity generation.
Yes, Schalisee offers opportunities for water sports, specifically water skiing, with equipment available on-site. It also features a beach bar for relaxation after activities. While other lakes may be suitable for swimming, Schalisee is the primary location for organized water sports.
The Mattmark Reservoir is a large, man-made lake and a natural monument. It's known for its imposing area, offering visitors the chance to walk around the entire lake on both wide paths and hiking trails. It's also Europe's largest earth dam, used for electricity generation, set in a wildly romantic landscape.


Still not found your perfect lake around Randa? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.