Top 20 Lakes around Untervaz

No, the municipality of Untervaz itself does not feature prominent natural lakes. However, the surrounding Graubünden region of Switzerland offers several beautiful and notable lakes that are easily accessible from Untervaz and popular for recreation and natural beauty.

The region boasts several stunning lakes. Among the most popular are Schottensee, known for its vibrant, surreal colors, and Wildseeluggen, which offers beautiful mountain scenery and a magical bluish hue. Another impressive spot is Schwarzsee (Pizol), which appears almost jet black, contrasting with other greener lakes.

Yes, hiking is a primary activity around the lakes. Many lakes, such as Wildseeluggen, Schottensee, and Schwarzsee (Pizol), are part of the famous 5-Lakes-Hike on the Pizol mountain. You can find various hiking routes, including challenging mountain hikes, in the area. For more options, explore the Hiking around Untervaz guide.

Yes, the region offers options suitable for families. Chapfensee, though a reservoir, is beautifully integrated into a nature reserve with an easy circular trail and fire pits, making it ideal for families. The 2-Lake-Hike on Pizol, which includes Wangsersee, is also popular with families.

The 5-Lakes-Hike on Pizol is a renowned mountain trail that connects five stunning alpine lakes: Wangsersee, Wildseeluggen, Schottensee, Schwarzsee (Pizol), and Baschalvasee. To access it from Untervaz, you would typically travel to the Pizolbahn cable car stations (e.g., in Wangs or Bad Ragaz) and take the lifts up to the starting points like Pizolhütte. The hike offers breathtaking views and varied terrain.

While many mountain lakes are quite cold, some, like Chapfensee, are popular for recreation and may be suitable for a dip on warmer days. Always check local conditions and regulations before swimming in any natural body of water.

Beyond hiking, the area around Untervaz and its lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can explore road cycling routes, such as the Road Cycling Routes around Untervaz, or embark on challenging mountain hikes. Chapfensee is also a popular spot for anglers, known for its rainbow trout.

Lag da Pigniu (Panixersee) is a beautiful reservoir lake nestled in a magnificent rock basin, offering a comfortable circular hiking path and spectacular giant waterfalls, especially during snowmelt. It's a bit further afield but provides a serene experience away from the more frequented Pizol lakes.

The best time to visit the alpine lakes is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to October) when the snow has melted, and hiking trails are fully accessible. Early summer offers spectacular views of waterfalls due to snowmelt, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. Some lakes, like Schwarzsee (Pizol), are also impressive when lightly covered in snow.

Yes, the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz is a significant natural attraction. While not a lake, it features a deep gorge carved by the Tamina River and a secured path leading to a thermal spring grotto with 36.5°C healing water. It's a car-free zone accessible on foot or by postbus, offering various hiking trails.

Many popular lakes, especially those on the Pizol mountain like Wangsersee, are accessible via cable cars from towns like Wangs or Bad Ragaz, which can be reached by public transport from Untervaz. For other lakes like Chapfensee or Lag da Pigniu, a combination of public transport and a short hike or local bus might be required.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking mountain scenery and the unique colors of the lakes, especially on the 5-Lakes-Hike. The tranquility, opportunities for stunning photography, and the well-maintained hiking trails are also highly appreciated. Many find the experience of seeing the reflections of mountains in the calm waters particularly memorable.