Top 20 Lakes around Ollon
Best lakes around Ollon, Switzerland, are situated in a region known for its alpine landscape and natural features. The area offers a variety of lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views. These natural havens are part of the Vaud Alps, a family-friendly mountain resort area. Visitors can explore diverse lake environments, from high-altitude mountain lakes to more accessible spots.
Best lakes around Ollon
- The most popular lakes is Lac Lioson, a lake noted for its beautiful color when the sun shines. It is located at 1,848 meters and offers views of mountains, forests, and wildflowers.
- Another must-see spot is Chavonnes Lake, a lake with a restaurant on its banks. This mountain lake is surrounded by fir trees and tranquility, accessible via a walk from Bretaye.
- Visitors also love Arnensee, a lake accessible by car from Gstaad or Feutersoey. A circular hike around the lake is approximately 4 km long and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Ollon is known for mountain lakes, accessible lakes, and lakes with amenities like restaurants. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different preferences for accessibility and activity.
- The lakes around Ollon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and 85 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Lac Lioson
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Lac de Bretaye
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Derborence Lake Refuge
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Chavonnes Lake
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There is a restaurant on the opposite side.
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Arnensee
Highlight • Lake
🚶♂️The hike around Arnensee is about 4 km long and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels.
🚴♀️ Arnensee is also a popular destination for mountain bikers. There are various trails leading through the stunning scenery, suitable for both beginners and experienced bikers.
🍽️ Arnensee has a cozy restaurant serving regional specialties and refreshments. Enjoy a meal on the terrace overlooking the lake. There are also picnic areas where you can enjoy your snacks. 🍽️🥤
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Tips from the Community
Lac de Bretaye is a peaceful high-altitude lake nestled at 1,800 meters in the Vaud Alps. Surrounded by meadows and gentle peaks, it's an ideal spot for a quiet break, a picnic, or simply admiring the scenery. Easily accessible from Villars-sur-Ollon on foot or by cogwheel train, it offers a beautiful interlude in the heart of the mountains.
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lovely glimpse surrounded by the mountain, if you are lucky you can find a small space and try to get wet
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Perfect for a stopover. With a small playground
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🚗 Arnensee is accessible from Gstaad or Feutersoey. You can arrive by car and park at the parking lot near the lake. Please note that the access road is private and a fee must be paid at the barrier. 🚶♂️The hike around Arnensee is about 4 km long and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels. 🚴♀️ Arnensee is also a popular destination for mountain bikers. There are various trails leading through the stunning scenery, suitable for both beginners and experienced bikers. 🍽️ Arnensee has a cozy restaurant serving regional specialties and refreshments. Enjoy a meal on the terrace overlooking the lake. There are also picnic areas where you can enjoy your snacks. 🍽️🥤
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Lake Lioson is also known as the “Pearl of the Alpine Lakes”. You will enjoy views of mountains, forests, rivers and wildflowers. The trail is moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of 1,443 feet. The best time to visit this trail is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is clear. You can also stop at the Lac Lioson restaurant to eat or have a drink. This trail is a great way to discover the beauty and culture of the Vaud region.
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If you are looking for a scenic and challenging route in the Swiss Alps, you should visit Lac des Chavonnes. This alpine lake is located near the village of La Forclaz, in the canton of Vaud, at an altitude of 1,850 feet. You will enjoy breathtaking views of the Diablerets glacier, the lake itself and the surrounding mountains. The trail is mostly wooded, but it also crosses some meadows and streams. The best time to walk it is from March to November, when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. You can start from Col de Bretaye, where there is parking and a restaurant. You can also take the train from Villars-sur-Ollon to Bretaye station, which is close to where the trail starts. The loop can be walked in either direction, but clockwise is slightly easier. Along the way, you can stop at the Lac des Chavonnes restaurant for a snack or drink.
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Lac de Bretaye is a beautiful alpine lake in the Swiss Alps, located in the canton of Vaud. It is located in the heart of the Villars-sur-Ollon ski area and is accessible by train from Bex or Villars-sur-Ollon. The lake is surrounded by magnificent peaks and meadows, and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The lake is also part of a popular running route, which passes three other lakes and offers panoramic views of the valley. Lake Bretaye is an ideal place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
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A magnificent natural lake, hidden in a wooded valley. The valley itself is a nature reserve, serving as a refuge for the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this beautiful region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Ollon are best for families?
For a family-friendly swimming spot, Étang du Duzillet near Saint-Triphon is easily accessible and offers shady, quiet spots, though it can get crowded on weekends. Other lakes like Lac Lioson, Lac de Bretaye, and Arnensee are also noted as family-friendly, offering easy walks and picnic opportunities.
Are there lakes near Ollon where I can swim?
Yes, swimming is possible in some lakes. Étang du Duzillet is a popular family choice for swimming. While the water can be chilly, swimming is also enjoyed by adventurous visitors at Chavonnes Lake, where summer temperatures can reach 21 to 24 degrees Celsius.
What are the best lakes for scenic views and photography?
Lac Lioson is often called the “Pearl of the Alpine Lakes” and is known for its beautiful color when the sun shines, offering stunning views of mountains, forests, and wildflowers. Lac de Bretaye also provides calm and scenic views, nestled below Le Chamossaire.
How can I access the lakes around Ollon, and is parking available?
Access varies by lake. Lac de Bretaye is easily reachable by the BVB mountain train from Villars. Arnensee is accessible by car from Gstaad or Feutersoey, with parking available near the lake (note: a fee is required for the private access road). Chavonnes Lake can be reached via a walk from Bretaye, which also has parking.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Ollon?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. A well-marked circular hike around Arnensee is about 4 km long and takes 1 to 1.5 hours. You can also walk a footpath around Lac de Bretaye. For more extensive options, explore the Hiking around Ollon guide, which includes routes like the Lac de Chavonnes loop.
What kind of amenities can I find near the lakes?
Several lakes offer amenities. Chavonnes Lake has a restaurant on its banks. Lac de Bretaye also features a mountain restaurant. At Derborence Lake, you'll find the picturesque Refuge de Derborence, offering regional food and overnight stays.
Can I find mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the region around Ollon is popular for mountain biking. Arnensee is a popular destination for mountain bikers, with various trails suitable for all skill levels. You can find more mountain biking routes in the broader Mountain Hikes around Ollon guide, which often includes multi-sport trails.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ollon?
The best time to visit the high-altitude lakes like Lac Lioson is typically from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is clear. For lower-altitude lakes, the warmer months offer the best conditions for swimming and outdoor activities.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting near the lakes?
Yes, the natural environments around the lakes provide chances to observe local wildlife. Near Lac de Bretaye, for instance, there's a chance to spot marmots. The alpine settings are generally rich in diverse flora and fauna.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Ollon?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the lakes. Many enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty, such as the fir-tree-surrounded Chavonnes Lake. The opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, combined with amenities like lakeside restaurants, also contributes to a highly rated experience.
Are there any hidden gems among the lakes near Ollon?
Chavonnes Lake, perched at 1,690 meters, is often described as a hidden gem, offering tranquility and beautiful surroundings away from more crowded spots. Its accessibility via a pleasant walk adds to its charm.
Can I find running routes that incorporate the lakes?
Yes, the region offers several running routes that pass by or around the lakes. For example, the Running Trails around Ollon guide features routes like the 'Lac de Chavonnes — loop — running from Bretaye' and 'Le Chamossaire par le lac de Bretaye — loop — running from Bretaye', offering scenic runs.
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