Top 18 Lakes around Chur
Best lakes around Chur are found in a region defined by its alpine environment and historical significance as Switzerland's oldest city. The area provides access to diverse natural landscapes, including mountains and valleys. These bodies of water, both natural and man-made, offer various outdoor activities. They are integrated into the local environment, serving as points of interest for exploration and recreation.
Best lakes around Chur
- The most popular lakes is Along the Mapragg reservoir, a trail that follows a…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Along the Mapragg reservoir
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Canovasee
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Gigerwald Dam
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Since 1976, the Tamina has been dammed with an arched dam to form the Gigerwaldsee. The dam is 147 meters high. The reservoir is operated by Kraftwerke …
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Mapraggsee
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The Mapraggsee is located in the Tamina valley at an altitude of 865 meters above sea level. Located in the St. Gallen municipality of Pfäfers, the Mapragg reservoir is …
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Gigerwald Reservoir Lakeside Road
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Tips from the Community
Lake Canova is located between Paspels and Almens at an altitude of 777 meters in the Domleschg region of Graubünden. There is a fee for bathing in the lake.
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Away from the busy road, nice view of the reservoir. As there is some coarse gravel, good tires are required (so not suitable for racing bikes).
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Canovasee Natural Swimming Pool The Canovasee is located in the Graubünden municipality of Domleschg between the two villages of Almens and Paspels. The lake belongs to the Canova estate and is privately owned. The bathing lake is located in the castle and fruit region of Domleschg; it is romantic and warm, with a water temperature well over 20 degrees in summer. A visit can be easily combined with a walk to Almens, which promises a unique view of the Heinzenberg. The bathing area has a large lawn, two barbecue areas, changing rooms and toilets. The bathing season begins at the beginning of May. The kiosk sells ice cream and drinks, hot dogs, regional sausages for grilling, homemade baked goods and various sweets. The bathing lake is located at an altitude of 777 meters above sea level and is almost 200 meters long and 100 meters wide. From the "Paspels Dorf" bus stop, Lake Canova can be reached in about 10 minutes on foot. Car drivers will find parking directly at the village schoolhouse (limited number). Opening Hours: Season starts: May 1, 2024 Season ends: October 13, 2024 Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Saturday + Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Text / Source: Canovasee Natural Swimming Pool, Gut Canova, 7417 Paspels https://canovasee.com/
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Gigerwaldsee, Calfeisental The Gigerwaldsee is located in the Calfeisental and lies above Vättis in the municipality of Pfäfers in the canton of St. Gallen. The elongated Gigerwald reservoir, which is enclosed between rock walls, is located at an altitude of 1335 meters above sea level, is around three kilometers long and 135 meters deep at its deepest point. The lake is fed by the Tamina, the Tellerbach, the Hochbach and other smaller mountain streams. The Tamina flows out of the Gigerwaldsee. The Gigerwaldsee is the largest lake located exclusively in the canton of St. Gallen. At the very back, at the western end of the lake, is the old Walser settlement of St. Martin. A partially tunneled road leads to the hamlet on the southern shore of the Gigerwaldsee. In the summer months there is an inn in St. Martin that offers food, drink and accommodation. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/gigerwaldsee/
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Gigerwald Dam, Calfeisental Since 1976, the Tamina has been dammed with an arched dam to form the Gigerwaldsee. The dam is 147 meters high. The reservoir is operated by Kraftwerke Sarganserland AG, which is majority owned by Axpo. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/gigerwaldsee/
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Mapraggsee The Mapraggsee is located in the Tamina valley at an altitude of 865 meters above sea level. Located in the St. Gallen municipality of Pfäfers, the Mapragg reservoir is operated by the Sarganserwald power plants, just like the Gigerwaldsee upstream. In addition to the Tamina, which also flows out of the reservoir, the Mapraggsee is fed by the Bschissnenbach, the Läuibach and various other streams. The Mapragg reservoir is located in the middle between the villages of Vättis and Pfäfers. This stretch is also covered by a post bus service. On the east side of the Mapraggsee, a road runs slightly above the shore. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/mapraggsee/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for outdoor activities near Chur?
The region around Chur offers diverse lakes for various activities. For a scenic walk along a reservoir, consider Along the Mapragg reservoir, which features sections of wide forest road. If you're interested in impressive man-made structures, the Gigerwald Dam is a notable site, forming a 3-kilometer-long reservoir.
Are there family-friendly lakes for swimming and recreation?
Yes, Canovasee is a popular choice for families. It's known for its warm water temperatures in summer, a large lawn, and barbecue areas, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. There's also a kiosk for snacks and drinks.
What kind of natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see around the lakes?
Many lakes offer stunning natural backdrops and viewpoints. For instance, the Mapraggsee is nestled in the Tamina valley, with its water shimmering a beautiful turquoise blue, offering picturesque views. The Gigerwald Dam also provides great views of its reservoir and the surrounding valley.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Chur?
The best time to visit largely depends on your desired activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming at lakes like Canovasee due to warmer water temperatures. Spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming landscapes. Winter can be beautiful for snowy walks, though some access might be limited.
Are there specific trails or routes for cycling near the lakes?
Yes, the region provides various cycling opportunities. For example, the Gigerwald Reservoir Lakeside Road offers a unique ride with several illuminated tunnels and wonderful views. For more extensive cycling adventures, you can explore routes like the 'Chur Rhine Route' or 'Kunkel Pass – Kunkels Pass Tunnel loop' found in the Cycling around Chur guide.
What options are available for mountain biking or gravel biking near the lakes?
The area around Chur is excellent for mountain and gravel biking. You can find challenging routes like the 'Brambrüesch tour' or 'Calanda(hut) Challenge' in the MTB Trails around Chur guide. For gravel biking, consider routes such as the 'Gravel bike route - Hinterrhein' or 'Kunkelsstrasse – Kunkel Pass loop' detailed in the Gravel biking around Chur guide.
Are there any facilities like cafes or barbecue areas at the lakes?
Yes, some lakes offer facilities for visitors. Canovasee, for instance, has a kiosk for drinks and snacks, along with two barbecue areas. In the summer months, the old Walser settlement of St. Martin, located at the western end of Gigerwaldsee, has an inn that offers food, drink, and accommodation.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car, and is parking available?
Accessibility varies by lake. For Mapraggsee, a post bus service covers the stretch between Vättis and Pfäfers, where the reservoir is located. For driving, many popular spots will have designated parking areas, though it's always advisable to check specific locations beforehand. For example, the Gigerwald Dam area is accessible by road.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Chur?
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful landscapes and diverse outdoor opportunities. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails, such as the 'Super trail along the reservoir in a beautiful landscape' at Mapragg. The warm waters and recreational facilities at lakes like Canovasee are also highly valued for summer enjoyment.
Can I combine a visit to a lake with a longer hike?
Absolutely. Many lakes are integrated into the wider trail network. For example, the trail Along the Mapragg reservoir can be part of a longer hike, offering both dirt roads and singletrack sections. The region's alpine environment provides ample opportunities to extend your visit into more extensive hiking tours.
Are there any unique man-made structures or historical sites associated with the lakes?
The Gigerwald Dam is a significant man-made monument, standing 147 meters high and forming the Gigerwaldsee. You can drive or cycle over it and find information boards detailing its construction and the reservoir. The Mapraggsee is also a reservoir operated by power plants, showcasing the region's infrastructure.
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