Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
Switzerland
Graubünden

Maloja

Top 20 Lakes around Maloja

Best lakes around Maloja, a village in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, offers access to a collection of water bodies in the Upper Engadine valley. The region is characterized by its Alpine scenery and diverse lake landscapes. These lakes provide opportunities for various outdoor activities and scenic exploration. The area features both large, well-known lakes and smaller, idyllic mountain lakes.

Best lakes around Maloja

  • The most popular lakes is Lago Bianco, a lake that is a reservoir at the Bernina Pass. This lake is known for its whitish, milky appearance due to glacial water and is bordered by two dams.
  • Another must-see spot is Lej dals Chöds (Hahnensee), an idyllic mountain lake. Visitors can expect a popular hiking destination featuring a restaurant and surrounded by forest.
  • Visitors also love Lake St. Moritz, a clean mountain lake. This lake is a venue for horse racing and cross-country skiing in winter, and offers well-kept shorelines for relaxation in summer.
  • Maloja is known for Alpine lakes, mountain lakes, and reservoirs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large bodies of water like Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana to smaller, tranquil spots like Lägh da Cavloc.
  • The lakes around Maloja are appreciated by the komoot community. Over 860 upvotes and 200 photos highlight the appeal of these natural features.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Lake Staz (Lej da Staz)

Highlight • Lake

Beautiful lake with a beautiful mountain panorama 😃👍🏻🏞

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Lago Bianco

Highlight • Lake

Lago Bianco, Bernina Pass at 2234 meters
The Lago Bianco is a reservoir at the Bernina Pass and is located in the area of the municipalities of Pontresina and Poschiavo. The lake is located directly at the pass at 2234 meters above sea level. The Lago Bianco is bordered by two dams on its north and south sides and is around three kilometers long and about 800m wide. When filled to its maximum, the depth of the Lago Bianco is over 50 meters. The reservoir on the Bernina Pass is fed by various mountain streams and glacier water, while the Cavagliasch in particular leaves the lake.
The whitish, somewhat milky-looking Lago Bianco gets its name (in German "White Lake") from the inflow of sand and glacier water.
The Bernina Hospice (Ospizio Bernina) is located on the western shore of Lago Bianco, and the Rhaetian Railway's train line - the Bernina Express - also runs directly along the shore. The Bernina Pass road is also located on the western side, but not directly on the lake shore.
In cold winters, the lake can freeze over and in some years the beautiful black ice forms. When the reservoir is then opened by the authorities, nothing stands in the way of ice skating on Lago Bianco.
Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch
schweizersee.ch/lago_bianco_pontresina

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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

Lake St. Moritz

Highlight • Lake

In summer, a clean mountain lake with a well-kept shoreline for relaxing after a mountain hike. In winter, the ice surface is the venue for horse racing and cross-country skiing in a very special way.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Lej dals Chöds (Hahnensee)

Highlight • Lake

Idyllic little mountain lake with restoration.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Lej Nair

Highlight • Lake

On this hike
Emerald Trail: 7 Lakes Tour komoot.de/tour/89552606
there are so many natural beauties to admire.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Crap da Sass Castle

Highlight • Castle

The great location on the lake makes this castle a bijoux. Unfortunately in private hands and therefore only to be admired from the outside.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Silsersee Lakeside Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Nice trail. Needs some skill. Unfortunately, many hikers. The flat way to drive from Maloja to Sils without traffic.
Today I would recommend bike trail no. 1 via Petpreir. Based on the pictures on Komoot, I believe that the 200 meters in altitude are worth it.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Lago di Cavloccio

Highlight • Lake

A beautiful mountain lake that invites you to linger, especially in the Cavloccio restaurant.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Julier Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

As the main traffic artery between the Upper Engadin and the rest of the world, the Julier Pass is quite busy, but remains open throughout the winter. The road passes 964 meters in altitude from Tiefencastel (851 m) to Silvaplana (1815 m).

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Buocha d'Sẹla

Highlight • Lake

A very fine gravel route. It is wonderful to ride, but it can get in the legs when there is a headwind. Certainly not very interesting for MTB as a pure MTB route, apart from the magnificent view.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Maloja.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Maloja

Step into the hiking season – spring routes in Graubünden

Cross-country skiing fever in the Graubünden region

Simply paradisiacal – cross-country skiing in Bregaglia

Alpine Passes Trail – hiking 700km across Switzerland

MTB Transalp Lake Como – From the Zugspitze to Lake Como

The Inn Cycle Path – From a babbling brook to a mighty river

Bernina Tour – Trail running the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps

Great heights from Chur to Tirano with your mountain bike & post bus

Kesch-Trek – A four-day hut adventure in Davos Klosters

Following the Race Across the Alps

Other adventures around Maloja

Step into the hiking season – spring routes in Graubünden

Collection by

Graubünden

Tips from the Community

Daniela Berger
September 21, 2025, Lago di Cavloccio

From here on, the path becomes very rough, and you'll need to have good balance and be able to negotiate rough patches. However, the hike up to this point is worth it, even if you turn back here. The landscape is so varied and enchanting.

Translated by Google

0

0

The owners of the Hahnensee mountain restaurant also rent out this hunting lodge. We might try it next time (with a hot tub 😉

Translated by Google

1

0

Path partially in the woods and on the lake shore. Small panoramic point. Attention, path shared and well frequented by people on foot.... attention and respect!

Translated by Google

0

0

Paul
December 7, 2024, Lej Nair

Tiny little lake in the middle of the most beautiful Engadin forest - well worth seeing and also a great place to take a break!

Translated by Google

1

0

An interesting destination all year round. 🥰

Translated by Google

4

1

Paul
October 30, 2024, Lago Bianco

Lago Bianco, Bernina Pass at 2234 meters The Lago Bianco is a reservoir at the Bernina Pass and is located in the area of the municipalities of Pontresina and Poschiavo. The lake is located directly at the pass at 2234 meters above sea level. The Lago Bianco is bordered by two dams on its north and south sides and is around three kilometers long and about 800m wide. When filled to its maximum, the depth of the Lago Bianco is over 50 meters. The reservoir on the Bernina Pass is fed by various mountain streams and glacier water, while the Cavagliasch in particular leaves the lake. The whitish, somewhat milky-looking Lago Bianco gets its name (in German "White Lake") from the inflow of sand and glacier water. The Bernina Hospice (Ospizio Bernina) is located on the western shore of Lago Bianco, and the Rhaetian Railway's train line - the Bernina Express - also runs directly along the shore. The Bernina Pass road is also located on the western side, but not directly on the lake shore. In cold winters, the lake can freeze over and in some years the beautiful black ice forms. When the reservoir is then opened by the authorities, nothing stands in the way of ice skating on Lago Bianco. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/lago_bianco_pontresina/

Translated by Google

16

0

A beautiful piece of nature and easy to get to. This makes it popular with families too. Lots of space and enough fire pits invite you to play and relax.

Translated by Google

0

0

Katrin und Roli
September 3, 2024, Lej Nair

Beautiful little lake in a dreamlike setting

Translated by Google

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Maloja?

The Maloja region offers a variety of popular lakes. Visitors frequently enjoy Lago Bianco, known for its milky glacial waters and the Bernina Express running along its shore. Another favorite is Lej dals Chöds (Hahnensee), an idyllic mountain lake with a restaurant. Lake Staz (Lej da Staz) is also highly rated for its beautiful mountain panorama.

What natural features can I expect to see around the Maloja lakes?

The lakes around Maloja are set amidst stunning Alpine scenery, featuring crystal-clear, often turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains and larch forests. You'll find diverse landscapes, from large bodies of water like Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana to smaller, tranquil mountain lakes such as Lägh da Cavloc. Many areas offer viewpoints, forests, and natural monuments.

Are there good hiking trails around the Maloja lakes?

Yes, the Maloja region is excellent for hiking. You can find numerous trails, including the popular Lago Bianco Lakeside Trail, which offers great views of Piz Cambrena. For more options, explore the various hiking routes available in the area, such as those listed in the Waterfall hikes around Maloja guide.

What water sports can I do on the lakes near Maloja?

Lake Silvaplana is an international hotspot for water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to the consistent Maloja wind. Lake Sils also offers opportunities for windsurfing and sailing, alongside fishing and boating. In winter, when sufficiently frozen, both lakes become popular for snow-kitesurfing.

Are there any winter activities available on the Maloja lakes?

During winter, the frozen surfaces of Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana transform into natural ice fields. They are popular for cross-country skiing, walking, and snow-kitesurfing, forming part of the Engadin Skimarathon route. In cold winters, Lago Bianco can also freeze, offering opportunities for ice skating.

Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Maloja?

Absolutely. Lakes like Lägh da Cavloc and Lägh da Bitabergh are ideal for families, offering tranquil escapes with facilities for bathing and barbecues. Lake Staz (Lej da Staz) and Lake St. Moritz are also categorized as family-friendly, providing accessible trails and scenic spots for all ages.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Maloja?

The Maloja lakes are beautiful year-round. Summer (late June to September) is ideal for hiking, cycling, and water sports, with Europe's highest scheduled public boat service operating on Lake Sils. Autumn is spectacular as the larch trees turn golden. Winter offers unique activities like cross-country skiing and ice skating on the frozen lakes.

Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the Maloja lakes?

Yes, the region has historical connections. Friedrich Nietzsche found inspiration near Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana, conceiving his idea of "Eternal Recurrence" while walking their shores. You can also find historical sites like Crap da Sass Castle near the lakes.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Maloja?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the serene atmosphere. Many highlight the excellent opportunities for hiking, the beautiful mountain panoramas, and the diverse range of outdoor activities available. The region's appeal is evident with over 860 upvotes and 200 photos shared by the komoot community.

Where can I find routes for cycling around the Maloja lakes?

The Maloja region offers several cycling routes that pass by or around its beautiful lakes. You can find detailed routes, including options like the "View of Lake Silvaplana – Lake St. Moritz loop," in the Cycling around Maloja guide.

Are there any quieter or 'hidden gem' lakes to discover near Maloja?

For a tranquil escape, consider Lägh da Cavloc and Lägh da Bitabergh. These idyllic mountain lakes are accessible via easy hiking trails from Maloja and offer a peaceful setting away from larger crowds, especially appealing in autumn. Lej Nair is another beautiful, smaller lake often praised by visitors for its natural beauty.

How can I access the lakes around Maloja using public transport?

Many lakes in the Maloja region are accessible via public transport. For instance, Lake Sils has Europe's highest scheduled public boat service, connecting villages like Sils Maria and Maloja. The Bernina Express train line also runs directly along the shore of Lago Bianco, making it easily reachable by train.

Most popular routes around Maloja

Hiking around Maloja

Most popular attractions around Maloja

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Find the best lakes around Maloja per region:

Lej da San MurezzanZuozSamedanCelerina/SchlarignaBregagliaLa Punt-Chamues-chS-chanfBeverSils im Engadin/SeglStazerwald / God da StazMadulainSilvaplanaLake SilsPontresinaSt. Moritz

Explore more

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

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around St Moritz

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy