4.5
(2202)
13,378
hikers
14
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Flachsee are characterized by a flat, accessible landscape centered on an artificial lake formed by the damming of the Reuss river. The region is a nationally recognized nature reserve, featuring extensive marshlands, reedbeds, and floodplain forests. Elevation gain is minimal across most routes, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The area is known for its diverse birdlife and signs of beaver activity along the trails.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
4.8
(90)
417
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(158)
844
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.9
(22)
110
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
34
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(4)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Actually, the Flachsee... is not really a lake but an expansion within the Reuss river. The Flachsee is about 300 meters wide and shows swamp landscapes on its banks, where water buffalo can sometimes be found. Smaller island groups have formed in the Flachsee (depending on the season/weather, they are more or less visible), where waterfowl breed and can be observed well from the shore.
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Here a jetty leads to a bird watching stand. It is a wooden hut on a jetty, with seating facilities to linger and observe birds at the same time.
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Yesterday, through a highly magnified pair of binoculars on one of these islands, I was able to observe five cormorants in close harmony: Magnificent! The birdlife here is truly diverse - a magnifying glass is actually a must. But the photos stored here by Komoot users are also great in this highlight - especially the photo of the kingfisher, which I unfortunately haven't had the chance to see yet...
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Wonderfully beautiful 🤩
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Wonderfully beautiful 🤩
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Very exciting! Very informative!
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Very beautiful during sunset.
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Very nice view of the Reuss.
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Flachsee is a nationally renowned nature reserve with minimal elevation gain, making its extensive trail network accessible for various fitness levels and perfect for families. The serene environment, diverse wildlife, and scenic views create an engaging experience for all ages.
Yes, Flachsee offers several easy, shorter loops. For instance, the Great view of the Flachsee – Flachsee loop from Unterlunkhofen is an easy 4.3 km route that takes just over an hour, perfect for little legs and strollers. Another option is the Flachsee Nature Reserve – Hermetschwil Abbey loop from Unterlunkhofen, an easy 6.6 km trail with minimal elevation.
The Flachsee area is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter extensive marshlands, reedbeds, and floodplain forests, which are critical habitats for diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for signs of beaver activity and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Flachsee Nature Reserve itself.
Absolutely! Flachsee is a waterbird reserve of national importance, home to up to 240 different bird species. There are dedicated birdwatching hides strategically placed, offering excellent vantage points for observing ducks, waders, and herons. It's a fantastic educational opportunity for children.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can visit the historic Old Iron Bridge over the Reuss River near Rottenschwil, a protected monument. Some routes, like the Flachsee Nature Reserve – Hermetschwil Abbey loop, pass by the Hermetschwil Abbey, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1950 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful nature, the well-maintained paths suitable for all ages, and the abundance of wildlife, especially the birdwatching opportunities and signs of beaver activity.
Many trails around Flachsee are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. However, as much of the area is a nature reserve, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Yes, the presence of beaver families is a unique natural highlight of the region. The Beaver activity at the Flachsee – Flachsee Nature Reserve loop from Unterlunkhofen is specifically designed to showcase areas where you might observe signs of their activity along the trails.
Flachsee is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural scenery. Winter can also be magical for birdwatching, especially for different duck species. Summer is great for longer days, but remember to bring sun protection.
Certainly! If your family is up for a longer adventure, consider the View of St. Martin's Monastery – Flachsee Nature Reserve loop from Unterlunkhofen. This moderate 14.1 km route offers more distance while still maintaining the relatively flat terrain characteristic of the region.
Yes, public parking is conveniently available, for instance, near the Rottenschwiler Bridge, which provides easy access to many of the trails around Flachsee. This makes it simple for families to start their hiking adventures.
Many paths around Flachsee are easily accessible and have minimal elevation, making them suitable for strollers and buggies. The flat terrain and well-maintained surfaces ensure that even families with very young children can enjoy a comfortable walk.


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