Top 20 Lakes around Grenchen
Lakes around Grenchen Switzerland provide diverse natural and recreational opportunities within the Solothurn canton and nearby regions. While Grenchen itself does not feature large natural lakes, the surrounding area includes several noteworthy water bodies. These locations offer activities such as swimming, walking, and mountain biking, set against varied landscapes from natural reserves to historical ponds. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Jura mountains and the Aare River, providing a range of aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Grenchen
- The most popular lakes is Bellacher Weiher, a lake that is a pond located at the southern foot of the Jura mountains. It was originally created in 1456 to supply the city of Solothurn with fish and is now a cantonal nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Huppenweiher, a lake that originated from a mining pit where fireproof clay was extracted. Visitors can explore its unique history and the surrounding natural environment.
- Visitors also love Meienriedseeli, a natural monument and forest area. This location offers a natural recreation area with gravel bays and shade, suitable for finding peace and quiet.
- Grenchen is known for its ponds and natural reserves. These include both historically significant man-made ponds and protected natural areas.
- The lakes around Grenchen are appreciated by the komoot community, with 58 upvotes and 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Bellacher Weiher
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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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Huppenweiher
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The mining continued until the end of the 1940s.
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Meienriedseeli
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Viewpoint over Lac Vert
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Erlimoos Pond (Haag Pond)
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Popular around Grenchen
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Unfortunately, the lake is completely fenced in, so you can't even take a picture.
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Warm clothes in winter
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This viewpoint offers an exceptional panorama of the green lake and the surrounding mountains. The lake is located in a private domain and closed to visitors since 2019. You can nevertheless admire the lake from afar and enjoy the tranquility of nature. You can also extend your run to Mont Girod and the Joux pastures, where you will have other views of the Jura landscape.
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This viewpoint offers an exceptional panorama of the green lake and the surrounding mountains. The lake is located in a private domain and closed to visitors since 2019. You can nevertheless admire the lake from afar and enjoy the tranquility of nature. You can also extend your hike to Mont Girod and the Joux pastures, where you will have other views of the Jura landscape.
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Nice view, a short stretch of single trail and, depending on the water level, a stream crossing.
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In summer it is difficult to identify the 'driveway' in the uppermost part of a freshly mown meadow. After a few meters along the edge of the forest, however, the trail increasingly peels out of the green. The trail can actually be 'speeded', with a very steep end.
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The Huppenweiher pond has an interesting history. It is not actually natural, but rather arose from the mining pit where the so-called Huppererde was mined from the 17th century onwards. Huppererde is a white fireproof clay that was suitable as a melting pot and was used in furnace construction. At that time, most of the earth was exported to France, Germany and Genoa/Venice, where chimney stones were made to line fireboxes. These were used in blast furnaces, glass furnaces and cannon foundries, for example. The mining continued until the end of the 1940s.
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As the photos show, the detour to the old Aare is worthwhile.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and water bodies near Grenchen for visitors?
While Grenchen itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the surrounding region offers several popular spots. Key highlights include Bellacher Weiher, a historic pond and nature reserve, and Meienriedseeli, a natural monument and forest area known for peace and quiet. The Aare River is also a major recreational hub for swimming and cooling off.
Are there any lakes near Grenchen with historical significance?
Yes, Bellacher Weiher has a rich history, originally created in 1456 to supply fish to Solothurn. It was also the site of a battle in 1798 and later known as the 'Black Sea' due to its use by a weaving mill. Additionally, Huppenweiher originated from a 17th-century mining pit for fireproof clay.
Which lakes around Grenchen are suitable for families?
Bellacher Weiher and Meienriedseeli are both considered family-friendly. Meienriedseeli offers a wonderful natural recreation area with gravel bays and shade, perfect for lingering. Lake Burgäschi, though slightly further, also features a lido for swimming, making it a good family option.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
You can observe diverse natural features. Bellacher Weiher is a cantonal nature reserve where you might spot toads, blindworms, and various water birds. The Erlimoos Pond is a small nature reserve known for its beaver population and other wildlife. The Aare River is celebrated for its clean water, ideal for swimming.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Grenchen?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking or mountain biking around Lake Burgäschi. The Aare River is excellent for swimming, especially in nearby Bern. For more structured activities, you can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and gravel biking around Grenchen, many of which pass by or near these water bodies.
Are there good spots for swimming near Grenchen?
Yes, the Aare River is a popular spot for cooling off and swimming, particularly in Bern where locals enjoy letting the current carry them. Several municipalities along the Aare have outdoor pools and lidos with direct river access during summer. Lake Burgäschi also has a lido for swimming.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Grenchen?
The best time depends on your preference. Summer is popular for swimming and enjoying the natural recreation areas like Meienriedseeli, though it can be crowded. Spring and summer are ideal for visiting Huppenweiher, as it can become overgrown in autumn. For a quieter experience, Meienriedseeli is often untouched by winter and ideal for finding peace.
Are there any viewpoints overlooking lakes in the Grenchen area?
Yes, there is a viewpoint over Lac Vert that offers an exceptional panorama of the green lake and surrounding mountains. While the lake itself is on private property and closed to visitors, the viewpoint allows you to admire it from afar and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Can I find places to eat or stay near these lakes?
Near Lake Burgäschi, the 'Gasthaus Seeblick am Burgäschisee' is a well-known and highly recommended restaurant. For broader options, Grenchen and the surrounding towns offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodations.
Are the lakes around Grenchen easily accessible by public transport?
While specific public transport details for each small pond aren't always available, Switzerland has an excellent public transport network. Many popular lakes and recreational areas are generally well-connected. For instance, the Aare River in Bern is easily accessible via public transport to its swimming spots. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific destinations.
What makes the Erlimoos Pond unique?
The Erlimoos Pond, also known as Haag Pond, is a small nature reserve where beavers are sedentary. It's not always easily accessible and can be a bit swampy, but if you take your time, you might spot beavers, birds of prey, water birds, and even snakes, making it a unique spot for wildlife observation.
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