Lake Sils, also known as Silsersee in German is a picturesque lake located in the Upper Engadine valley in Switzerland. Surrounded by stunning mountains like Piz Corvatsch and Piz Grevasalvas, it's the largest natural lake in the Alps above 1,000 metres. The lake was formed by a prehistoric landslide dam and is a must see popular spot .

The lake is renowned for its pristine waters and its unique location, where the Maloja wind sweeps across the surface, creating a haven for windsurfers.

📝Things to do :

Hike Around the Lake

Lake Sils is surrounded by well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. One of the most popular routes is the loop trail, which takes about 3–4 hours to complete.

Trail Overview

Length: Approximately 15 km (9 miles)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels

Starting Point: Sils Maria (can start at other points around the lake)

Highlights of the Loop Trail

Scenic Views:
The trail hugs the shoreline of Lake Sils, offering uninterrupted views of the crystal-clear water and dramatic mountain landscapes. The reflections of the surrounding peaks on the lake surface, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are mesmerising.

Charming Villages:
The route passes through quaint villages like Isola and Plaun da Lej, where you can stop for a meal or a refreshing drink.

🫕Enjoy a meal at Restaurant Murtaröl in Plaun da Lej.

For a more challenging adventure, consider the Via Engiadina trail, which offers panoramic views of the entire Engadine Valley.

🛥️Boat Ride on Lake Sils

Take a leisurely boat ride across the lake for a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The boat service connects the village of Sils Maria with other lakeside hamlets.

🚲Cycling

The area around Lake Sils is perfect for cycling, with trails that wind through forests, meadows, and charming villages. Rent a bike in Sils Maria and set off on a scenic adventure.

🏊‍♀️Swimming

In the warmer months, Lake Sils is a stunning spot for swimming. The clear waters are refreshingly cool. Bring along a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the shore.

How to Get to Lake Sils:

🚞By Train:

The nearest major train station is St. Moritz, which is well-connected to other Swiss cities. From St. Moritz, take a bus to Sils Maria, which is located at the northern end of the lake.

🚗By Car:

Lake Sils is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available in Sils Maria and other nearby villages. The scenic drive through the Engadine Valley is a highlight in itself.

🚲By Bike or Foot:

If you’re staying in the area, cycling or walking to Lake Sils is a rewarding experience, with beautiful trails leading to the lake.

📆 When to Visit Lake Sils:

Summer (June–August): Ideal for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the Maloja wind for windsurfing and sailing.

Autumn (September–October): The surrounding forests come alive with vibrant fall colours.

Winter (December–March): The frozen lake becomes a playground for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hikes.

Where to eat:

🍽️Restaurant Waldhaus: Located in Sils Maria, this historic restaurant offers fine dining with spectacular views of the lake.

☕️Grond Café: A cosy spot in Sils Maria for coffee, pastries, and light snacks.

Nearby Attractions:

📸Sils Maria

This charming village at the northern end of the lake is a cultural hub with a rich history. Visit the Nietzsche House, where the famous philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche's spent several summers. Take time to explore the quaint streets filled with traditional Swiss architecture too.

💦St. Moritz

The world-famous resort town of St. Moritz is only a 15-minute drive away. Here, you can indulge in luxury shopping, fine dining, and a variety of winter and summer sports. Don’t miss a stroll around Lake St. Moritz.

🏚️Fex Valley

For those seeking untouched natural beauty, the Fex Valley is a short hike or horse-drawn carriage ride away. This car-free valley is known for its idyllic landscapes, traditional chalets, and peaceful ambiance.

💦Lake Silvaplana

Just a short drive from Lake Sils, Lake Silvaplana is a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Its stunning turquoise waters are framed by rugged mountains.

🌄Maloja Pass

At the southern end of Lake Sils lies the Maloja Pass, a dramatic mountain pass offering breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities.

Whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows, sailing across its crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking in the views, every moment spent at Lake Sils is one to treasure.