Lakes around Bassersdorf offer diverse recreational opportunities, despite the town not having large lakes within its municipal boundaries. Situated in the Glatt valley, Bassersdorf provides access to several notable lakes. The region features a landscape with flat moors, reed belts, and clear waters, supporting varied flora and fauna. These natural features contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
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Very nice hiking trail directly at Lake Greifensee.
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A pretty village right on the lake. The only village that is directly on the lake. The passage is not obstructed.
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The Bürkliplatz was created after the bulwarks of the former city fortifications were demolished. The city engineer Arnold Bürkli was responsible for the construction of the quay from 1882 to 1887. Land was heaped up on the lake shore and the quay bridge created a continuous lake promenade with avenues, meadows and parks. Today, the Bürkliplatz is a shipping pier and the starting point for tours on Lake Zurich. The square is also a versatile event location: the “Bürklimäärt” vegetable market takes place here twice a week, and the flea market on Saturdays in summer. The square also serves as the start and finish point for many sporting events.
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Very nice lake with bathing possibilities
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From Bassersdorf, you can easily reach several beautiful lakes. The most prominent include Greifensee, known for its nature conservation area and diverse flora and fauna; Lake Zurich, offering a wide range of water sports and cultural events; and Katzensee, a smaller, tranquil lake within a nature reserve ideal for relaxation and bird observation.
Yes, the region offers excellent cycling opportunities. For instance, the Greifensee Cycling Path allows you to cycle along the lake, offering beautiful views of the mountains. The entire lake is encircled by a path suitable for cycling, walking, or rollerblading. Lake Zurich also features extensive cycling paths, such as the Lake Zurich circular trail.
Absolutely. Greifensee has designated swimming areas and is popular for stand-up paddleboarding. Lake Zurich offers numerous lidos like Enge, Utoquai, Mythenquai, and Tiefenbrunnen, some with sandy beaches and family-friendly facilities. Katzensee also has a free swimming area and picnic facilities, though inflatable boats are not permitted there.
On Greifensee, a regular boat service operates, and you can even enjoy nostalgic trips on the steamship 'Grief,' Switzerland's oldest steamship, which also offers culinary cruises. Lake Zurich provides extensive boat cruise options, offering scenic views of the Alps and access to various attractions like Ufenau Island and Rapperswil Castle.
Yes, many lakes in the area are very family-friendly. Greifensee has picnic sites and bathing areas. Lake Zurich features lidos with family-friendly facilities. Lake Katzensee is also considered family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and free swimming and picnic facilities. Many paths around these lakes are suitable for walks with children.
The lakes boast diverse natural features. Greifensee is largely a nature conservation area with flat moors, reed belts, and diverse flora and fauna, including over 400 plant species and 120 migratory bird species. Katzensee is situated within a nature reserve characterized by wetlands and reed beds, making it excellent for bird observation. You might also encounter unique features like the Golden Gate, a pond formed by rising groundwater with very clear water.
Beyond the lakes, the Bassersdorf region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, such as the 'Big Root Trail Zurich – Hardwald Observation Tower loop' or 'Running loop from Bassersdorf.' For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking routes like the 'Hardwald Epic Gravel Tour' and road cycling routes including the 'Winterthur Cycleways' and 'Glatt River Cycle Path.' You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Bassersdorf, Gravel biking around Bassersdorf, and Road Cycling Routes around Bassersdorf guides.
Yes, there are many hiking and walking trails. Greifensee is encircled by a popular path suitable for walking. Around Lake Katzensee, you can find walking paths like the Chatzesee-Rundweg, which allows you to explore the idyllic landscape and observe birds. Lake Zurich also offers extensive hiking paths, such as the Lake Zurich circular trail, providing diverse landscapes.
Lake Katzensee, consisting of Upper and Lower Katzensee, is a small lake within a nature reserve, known for its wetlands and reed beds. It offers a relaxed, natural experience with free swimming and picnic facilities. It's particularly appreciated for bird observation due to its protected status. While it feels like a countryside escape, it's conveniently close to Zurich.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the warmer months (spring to autumn) are ideal for swimming, boating, and enjoying outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. During this time, many cultural events and open-air cinemas also take place around Lake Zurich. Greifensee is particularly known for its beautiful sunsets, making evening visits appealing.
Yes, you'll find various options. Greifensee has picnic sites and cafes along its shores. Lake Katzensee features a small seaside resort with a restaurant. Around Lake Zurich, there are numerous charming towns and promenades with cafes, restaurants, and lidos where you can relax and enjoy the views. For more information on Lake Zurich, you can visit MySwitzerland.com.


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