Blausee

Blausee is a natural mountain lake located at Switzerland. It lies within the Bernese Oberland region, in Kander Valley. It is renowned for its natural surroundings and the striking blue color of its water. Blausee is situated at the center of a protected nature park and functions as an open natural area accessible to visitors.

Blausee (unsplash)

Physical characteristics

The lake’s water is deep blue and highly transparent. Underwater tree trunks, rocks, and a stone statue on the lakebed appear close to the surface due to the water’s clarity. During winter, a distinct visual contrast forms between the lake’s water and the snow cover.

Legend

A local narrative is associated with Blausee. According to this story, a young woman living near the lake in the past had an emotional bond with a shepherd. On moonlit nights, they are said to have spent time on a boat on the lake. After the shepherd died in a fall from the mountain, the young woman entered a deep period of mourning. It is said that she continued to visit the lake at night until one morning she and her boat were found at the bottom of the lake. The legend links the lake’s deep blue color to this event.^【1】

Nature park

Blausee is located at the center of a nature park covering 20 hectares and closed to vehicular traffic. The park features a walking path with a wooden bridge along the lakeshore and a platform extending over the water. Trails through the forest pass among twisted trees and moss-covered rocks. The lake and its surrounding landscape were formed approximately 15,000 years ago by a rockslide.^【2】

Nature Park (Photo: Emine Nur Erdem)

Alpacas and Llamas

During the summer months, alpacas and llamas are present within the Blausee Nature Park. The animals are moved to a summer pasture in the Sommerau forest clearing, where they are kept in their natural environment. Visitors can observe these animals within the park area.

A llama at Blausee (Photo: Emine Nur Erdem)

Usage and activities

Admission to Blausee includes access to picnic areas, fire pits, a natural play area for children, and a visit to an organic trout farm with natural pools. During summer, trout products are served at a café by the lake and a restaurant with lake views. A glass-bottomed rowboat tour of the lake is included in the admission fee during the summer season. Swimming in the lake is not permitted. Between November and March, diving is allowed for visitors holding a valid diving certification.

Access and visitation opportunities

Buses connect Blausee to Frutigen and Kandersteg. Transportation is free for holders of the Berner Oberland Pass, and admission to the lake is discounted. Free admission is granted to visitors who visit Blausee on their birthday.

Surrounding areas

In the Kandertal region where Blausee is located, the Oeschinen Lake near Kandersteg serves as a second destination for visitors. The region is defined by mountain ranges, waterfalls, and lake landscapes. During winter, the area around Kandersteg is used for cross-country skiing.