5 Lakes Hike

The Five Lakes Walk, in German the 5-Seenweg, is one of the best-loved walks in Zermatt, a trail that links five small mountain lakes on the sunny slope above the village with the Matterhorn as a constant backdrop. The walk is about ten kilometres long and takes around three to four hours at an easy pace, with most of the route gently downhill or level. It is not demanding, but it is a real mountain walk at around 2,500 metres altitude, so decent shoes, warm layers and sun protection are needed, and the weather can change quickly.

The route begins at Blauherd, the upper station of a funicular and gondola that rise from the edge of Zermatt, not at Riffelalp, which is on a different railway on the other side of the valley. From Blauherd, the path leads first to the Stellisee, the best known of the five lakes, a small, clear pool in a hollow of the meadow. On a calm morning, the Matterhorn’s pyramid is mirrored in the water, one of the most photographed views in Switzerland, and it draws crowds, so early starts help. The trail then continues to the Grindjisee, a deep green lake in a forest setting, followed by the Grünsee, the Moosjisee and the Leisee, each with its own character. Paths run through larch and pine woods, across meadows full of alpine flowers in summer and past rocky outcrops, with benches and picnic areas at several points.

The lakes differ in size and mood. The Stellisee is the most famous and the most visited, while the Grünsee and Grindjisee are quieter and have attractive woodland settings, and the Moosjisee is a small, boggy lake with cotton grass in summer. The Leisee, the last, has a play area and a restaurant at its shore, and children enjoy the stop. From the Leisee, a short walk or the Sunnegga funicular carries walkers back down to Zermatt, completing the circuit. The route can also be walked in the other direction, though the downhill version is more popular.

The best season is from late June to September, when the paths are free of snow and the lakes are at their fullest. Early morning is best for reflections, because wind often ruffles the water later. Check the status of the lifts and conditions on the trail, as snow can remain on shaded sections in early summer. Mountain restaurants are scattered along the route, so you can stop for lunch.

The walk suits families with children old enough to walk several hours, photographers and anyone who wants a moderate day with a famous view.