Top 20 Lakes in Solothurn
Best lakes in Solothurn offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The canton features prominent bodies of water such as Lake Burgäschi and a portion of Lake Biel, providing settings for various outdoor activities. Solothurn's lakes range from tranquil natural reserves to historical ponds, reflecting the region's varied geography. These waterways contribute to the canton's appeal for those seeking natural beauty and outdoor exploration.
Best lakes in Solothurn
- The most popular lakes is Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden, a natural monument that features small lakes within the largest English landscaped garden in Switzerland. It includes Birseck Castle, small caves, and various wild places.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Burgäschi, a natural lake. Visitors can find opportunities for swimming, walking, or mountain biking around its perimeter, and it is located within a nature reserve.
- Visitors also love Bellacher Weiher, a historical pond. This pond, originally built for fish supply, is now a cantonal nature reserve known for its diverse wildlife and historical significance.
- Solothurn is known for its natural lakes, historical ponds, and landscape garden lakes. These bodies of water offer a variety of settings for outdoor activities and natural observation.
- The lakes in Solothurn are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 380 upvotes and over 190 photos shared.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Lake Burgäschi
Highlight • Lake
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Grand Étang de la Réselle
Highlight • Lake
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Park im Grünen (Grün 80)
Highlight • Forest
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Bellacher Weiher
Highlight • Lake
The pond was originally intended to supply the city of Solothurn with fish. According to Kurt Jäggi's account in the 1977 Bellacher calendar, a master Ulrich von Egliswil, a dam builder, was commissioned by the city council in 1456 to build the current pond. According to the Bellach village history of 1990, however, this was a different pond called the Oberer Bellacher Weiher, which later lay in the municipality of Selzach, while the pond that still exists today was not dammed until 1548 as the Seusetweiher or Unterer Bellacher Weiher. It soon became apparent that the cost of putting the fish in the ponds was not in a good ratio to the yield from the ponds. "The fishing out of the ponds was mainly a celebration for the councilors themselves, who attended in large numbers and were fed with plenty of fish and wine." These banquets for the Solothurn council reduced the proceeds considerably, as at least 101 council members and probably other guests attended each time. The council considered keeping the ponds or selling them several times, "but the desire for a banquet always won out."
Battle on March 2, 1798
The pond also went down in the annals in 1798, when the most important battle took place on its shores between Napoleon's troops under General Schauenburg, who were invading the country, and the Solothurn troops of General Josef Bernhard Altermatt, with the French quickly winning and then occupying Solothurn and the rest of the canton without a fight.
In 1861, the mechanical cotton weaving mill Schwarz & Co. took over the Bellach pond and used its water, which was piped to the weaving mill, to power its machines. Since then, the pond has been known locally as the "Black Sea" or "Black Sea". The weaving mill also leased the pond for fishing. In 1945, it was declared a cantonal nature reserve.
Until the beginning of the 20th century, the Bellach pond was also used to produce natural ice. It was also useful for farmers, as they were allowed to use the runoff to irrigate their fields.
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Little lake in Bogental
Highlight • Lake
Shortly before the Bogental farm we come across a pond. The Bogental pond was built around 1595 and was used to float wood until the beginning of the 19th century. By quickly emptying the pond, the wood could be floated with the flood wave via the Lüssel and Birs to Basel. Today the pond is an important spawning area for amphibians. Instead of cowbells, we can still hear the ringing of the "Glögglifrosches", the call of the rare midwife toad, which is reminiscent of a distant bell ringing.
Source: wwf-bs.ch
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Born Biotope Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Probierloch Pond
Highlight • Lake
Here there is a peculiarly rectangular water surface, which is covered in the summer of the half of the Kleine Wasserlinse sit and for example, frogs, newts and LIebellen habitat offers. The small pond dates back to 1874 when a Langenthal-St. Urabn - Altbüron - Ebersecken - Schötz - Wauwil should arise. It is called a trial hole and was created during the clarification of the geological conditions of a sounding excavation.
Construction began in 1874. At times, up to 800 workers were involved. Above all, the tunneling in Altbüron LU, which is located six kilometers southwest of here. 1875 is characterized by a financial crisis, which set the railroads particularly bad. Later efforts to resume the work failed.
But today we have an intact forest, for those in need of the outdoors, like me and you.
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Teufelsschlucht Waterfalls and Pools
Highlight • Gorge
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Green Park
Highlight • Rest Area
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Tips from the Community
The Grand Étang de la Réselle is located near Delémont and is an idyllic pond in the middle of the forest. Surrounded by tranquility and nature, it offers a beautiful resting place for hikers. A circular path leads along the water and invites you to linger. Especially on warm days, the shady location provides pleasant coolness. The Étang is a rather unknown destination and therefore pleasantly quiet. In combination with the Vorbourg ruin, a varied hike can be planned.
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Fishing, why not? A bit of a strange location, but entertaining.
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Ideal for enjoying a cool bath!
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The rocky surroundings and the trees are reflected in the clear water of the small pond. A very nice place to take a deep breath and enjoy nature.
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The Park im Grünen is a popular recreational area on the outskirts of the city. Asphalted paths invite you to walk, skate and cycle, but there are also sports fields and playgrounds and beautiful green spaces. The park, formerly known as Grün 80, once served as the summer residence of the Basel philanthropist Christoph Merian. Today the garden is a popular destination and has a pond, a mini golf course, a cafeteria, a restaurant, a playground and a small shop. https://www.basel.com/de/attraktionen/park-im-gruenen-dbfe1e396b
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The park in the green is a popular local recreation area on the edge of the city. Paved paths invite you to stroll, skate and cycle, but sports and playgrounds and beautiful green spaces also beckon. The park, formerly known as Grün 80, once served as a summer residence for the Basel philanthropist Christoph Merian. Today, the garden is a popular excursion destination, featuring a pond, a mini-golf course, a cafeteria, a restaurant, a playground, and a small shop. https://www.basel.com/de/attraktionen/park-im-gruenen-dbfe1e396b
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find in Solothurn?
Solothurn features a variety of water bodies, including natural lakes like Lake Burgäschi, historical ponds such as Bellacher Weiher, and even small lakes within landscaped gardens like the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden. The canton also shares a portion of the larger Lake Biel, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Are there any lakes in Solothurn with historical significance?
Yes, Lake Burgäschi is notable for its tranquil atmosphere and historical importance, with archaeological sites around it designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Bellacher Weiher is another historical pond, originally built in 1456 to supply fish to Solothurn and later the site of a significant battle in 1798.
Which lakes in Solothurn are suitable for swimming?
Lake Burgäschi is a popular spot for swimming, offering a lido and other opportunities. Lake Biel, while partially in Solothurn, is also well-known for its numerous swimming spots along its shores.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Solothurn?
Around Lake Burgäschi, you can enjoy walking or mountain biking on the surrounding paths. Lake Biel offers a wide range of water sports, including stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kayaking, and boating. For more extensive outdoor adventures, you can explore various mountain hikes, MTB trails, and waterfall hikes throughout the Solothurn region.
Are there family-friendly lakes or areas in Solothurn?
Yes, several lakes and areas are great for families. Lake Burgäschi is considered family-friendly, as is the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden with its diverse features. The Bellacher Weiher and Talweiher Nature Reserve are also noted as family-friendly. Lake Biel offers swimming spots, playgrounds, and barbecue areas.
Can I find nature reserves around the lakes in Solothurn?
Absolutely. Lake Burgäschi is located within a nature reserve, and the Bellacher Weiher was declared a cantonal nature reserve in 1945, known for its diverse wildlife. The Talweiher Nature Reserve is another example of a protected area around a lake.
What are the best ways to experience Lake Biel from Solothurn?
While Lake Biel is shared with the canton of Bern, its connection to Solothurn is strong. A popular way to experience it is via the two-and-a-half-hour Aare cruise between Solothurn and Biel, which passes by the stork settlement of Altreu and the medieval village of Büren. You can also take a Three Lakes Cruise connecting Biel with Neuchâtel and Murten.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Near Lake Burgäschi, the "Gasthaus Seeblick am Burgäschisee" is a well-known restaurant. The Park im Grünen (Grün 80), which includes a lake, also features a cafe and restaurant. The shores of Lake Biel offer various dining options and accommodations in picturesque villages and the city of Biel.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Solothurn?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of places like Lake Burgäschi, finding it a 'fairytale lake and countryside' that offers respite. The natural beauty and opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing wildlife, particularly at spots like Bellacher Weiher, are highly valued. The komoot community has shown significant appreciation, with over 380 upvotes and 190 photos shared across the lakes in Solothurn.
Are there any unique or hidden gem lakes in Solothurn?
The Born Biotope Pond is a unique find, located unexpectedly at the top of the Born, offering a peaceful spot for a break amidst nature. The Probierloch Pond and the Forest pond on the Entfelden Adventure Trail also offer more secluded natural experiences.
What are the best natural features to look for around Solothurn's lakes?
Around the lakes, you can find diverse natural features. Lake Burgäschi is surrounded by forests and reeds. The Bellacher Weiher is known for its diverse wildlife, including toads, blindworms, and various water birds. The Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden features small caves and wild places within its extensive grounds.
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