Best lakes around Hochfelden, a municipality in the Bülach district of the Canton of Zürich, Switzerland, offers access to diverse aquatic landscapes. While Hochfelden itself is a small area without large natural lakes directly within its boundaries, the wider Canton of Zürich provides numerous options. These lakes are known for their clear waters, natural preserves, and varied recreational opportunities. The region's geography allows for a range of outdoor activities centered around these water bodies.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The pond owes its existence to groundwater, which is forced to rise through a watertight obstacle. The rising groundwater stirs up fine, light sand, interspersed with white snail shell debris, which was used as writing sand until the beginning of the last century. Legend of the "Goldig Tor" (short version according to Meinrad Lienert) Once upon a time a shepherd boy was tending sheep at the pond. It was a glorious foehn day and the boy lay down on the bank with his eyes heavy with dreams. Suddenly a maiden emerged from the pond up to her shoulders. She lured him with a golden ring on her hand. The boy tried to grab the ring and leaned over the water. Suddenly the maiden took him in both arms and sank with him. He had barely disappeared when his farmer rushed over, because he had heard his shepherd boy cry out. But he could not see his little shepherd anywhere. Suddenly it shot up like a candle from the golden sand whirlpool in the pond in front of him. He quickly pulled it to the bank. After a while the boy opened his eyes and began to tell what had happened to him: "The water maiden pulled me into an infinite depth. Suddenly I saw a mighty city with a huge golden gate. It just opened wide and a beautiful maiden stepped out. Now the maiden, who was holding me in her arms, opened her arms to greet her friend. At the same moment a whirlpool grabbed me and pulled me up with it. I don't know anything else." The shepherd boy returned to the pond again and again, but he never met the beautiful maiden again. Thanks to his story, however, we now know where the gold flakes in the water come from: they are washed off the golden gate and carried to the surface (content from the information board).
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The name of the duck pond is Chloschter Gumpen. Shady with several benches --> Good place for a break
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For swimming and relaxation, Katzensee (Lake Katzensee) is a top choice, known for its clear waters and platforms for breaks. Nature lovers often visit Chlostergumpen Pond for bird watching and its picnic areas. The unique Golden Gate, formed by rising groundwater, also attracts visitors interested in its natural phenomenon.
The region offers diverse natural features. You'll find clear waters ideal for swimming, extensive reed beds that serve as habitats for various bird species, and unique geological formations like the groundwater-fed Golden Gate. Lakes like Greifensee and Pfäffikersee are known for their protected shores and diverse flora and fauna, including over 120 species of migratory birds at Greifensee.
Visitors appreciate the clear waters, natural preserves, and varied recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for swimming and relaxation, especially at places like Katzensee (Lake Katzensee). The opportunity for bird watching at biotopes like Chlostergumpen Pond and the unique natural history of sites like Golden Gate are also highly valued.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent swimming opportunities. Katzensee (Lake Katzensee) is ideal for swimming and has platforms for breaks. The Katzensee Lido provides a designated area for swimming with free entry. Larger lakes like Lake Zurich and Pfäffikersee also feature numerous lidos and public bathing facilities.
You can find various hiking trails around the lakes. For example, a popular circular route exists around Greifensee, and Pfäffikersee offers a 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) circular trail suitable for walkers. For more hiking options in the wider region, explore routes like the 'Neeracher Ried Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Large Barbecue Area loop from Hochfelden' in the Hiking around Hochfelden guide.
Yes, the region around Hochfelden and its lakes offers extensive cycling and mountain biking opportunities. Greifensee has scenic trails for biking, and Lake Zurich features a circular trail perfect for cycling. For specific routes, you can check the Cycling around Hochfelden guide or the MTB Trails around Hochfelden guide, which include routes like the 'Glatt Riverside Path' for cycling and 'Weiacher Höhe – Alter Züriweg Trail' for mountain biking.
Many lakes in the region are very family-friendly. Katzensee (Lake Katzensee) and Chlostergumpen Pond are highlighted as family-friendly, offering swimming, picnic areas, and nature observation. Pfäffikersee's circular trail is suitable for baby buggies, and the nearby Juckerhof adventure farm offers activities like fruit picking and a natural playground.
The summer months (May to September) are ideal for visiting, especially if you plan to swim or engage in water sports, as the lidos are open and the weather is warm. During this time, cultural events and festivals are also common around Lake Zurich. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful scenery as nature changes.
The Canton of Zürich has an efficient public transport network. While specific routes vary by lake, major lakes like Lake Zurich, Greifensee, and Pfäffikersee are well-connected by train and bus services from Zurich and surrounding towns, making them accessible from Hochfelden. For detailed travel information, it's best to consult local public transport schedules.
Yes, you'll find various options. Chlostergumpen Pond has dedicated barbecue and picnic areas. The Katzensee Lido includes a kiosk. Larger lakes like Lake Zurich and Greifensee boast numerous lakeside restaurants and cafes, with some even offering culinary cruises.
Absolutely. Lake Zurich, in particular, is a hub for water sports. Its clear waters are perfect for stand-up paddling, sailing, wakeboarding, and rowing. Greifensee also offers boat rental options, including nostalgic trips on Switzerland's oldest steamship, the 'Greif'.
Pfäffikersee is notable for its extensive natural preserve along much of its shoreline, providing a habitat for numerous moorland plants and bird species. It also features a popular 9-kilometer circular trail and three public bathing facilities. Additionally, visitors can discover Roman historical traces and the Juckerhof adventure farm nearby, offering unique family activities.
Yes, the 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) circular trail around Pfäffikersee is specifically mentioned as being suitable for wheelchairs and baby buggies, making it an accessible option for many visitors.


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