My top 5 hidden lakes in the Swiss alps

Arvenseeli

Activity level: 2/5 – easy hike
Estimated time: 1.5–2 hours round trip
Best time to visit: Late spring – early summer
Location: Near Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

The Arveseeli are a group of small alpine lakes hidden in a high meadow above Kandersteg. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and blooming wildflowers, these turquoise pools reflect the mountains like glass when filled in early summer. Later in the season they often dry out, giving the spot a fleeting, almost secret feel.

My personal tip:
Visit between May and July when the lakes still hold water and the alpine flowers are at their peak, a short, magical detour from the main trails around Kandersteg.

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Laghetto dei Saléi

Activity level: 2/5 – easy hike
Estimated time: ~1 hour round trip
Best time to visit: Autumn
Location: Near Alpe Saléi, Ticino, Switzerland

This small lake rests above Bosco Gurin and is reached after a scenic cable-car ride to Alpe Saléi. In autumn, golden larches frame the mirror-calm water, creating one of Ticino’s most photogenic alpine settings.

My personal tip:
Come for the golden hour, the warm evening light and golden trees make this place feel like a hidden painting in the mountains.

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Sewenseeli

Activity level: 2/5 – easy walk
Estimated time: ~1 hour round trip
Best time to visit: Summer
Location: Obwalden, Switzerland

A quiet alpine lake tucked into green pastures above Engelberg, surrounded by mountain flowers and soft meadows. The calm reflections and untouched surroundings make it a peaceful stop for photography or a short picnic.

My personal tip:
Arrive early on a clear summer morning, the still air creates perfect mirror reflections before the wind picks up.

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Lago Bianco (Robiei Region)

Activity level: 2/5 – easy to moderate
Estimated time: 1.5–2 hours round trip
Best time to visit: Summer–early autumn
Location: Robiei Region, Ticino, Switzerland

Located beneath the Basòdino Glacier, this light-blue lake is one of Ticino’s hidden treasures. It can be reached via the cable car from San Carlo to Robiei and a short hike through rocky alpine scenery.

My personal tip:
Spend time exploring the area around Robiei, the combination of glacier views, turquoise water, and solitude makes it one of the most rewarding spots in southern Switzerland.

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Lacs de Fenêtre

Activity level: 3/5 – moderate hike
Estimated time: 2–3 hours round trip
Best time to visit: Summer – early autumn
Location: Great St. Bernard Pass, Valais, Switzerland

Three crystal-clear alpine lakes hidden in a quiet valley near the Italian border. The trail offers incredible views of Mont Blanc Massif, wild alpine flowers, and a sense of complete remoteness.

My personal tip:
Start early and bring a picnic, the reflections of the peaks in the calm morning light make this one of the most peaceful places in the Alps. And if you're lucky you can spot some ibex.


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