Best lakes around Seewen, Switzerland, are primarily found in the Canton of Schwyz and historically in the Canton of Solothurn. The region in Schwyz is known for lakes nestled between mountains, offering panoramic backdrops. In Solothurn, the area is notable for a former lake that has been the subject of revitalization efforts. These locations present a mix of natural and artificially created water bodies.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The Baslerweier is an artificial lake that served as a drinking water supply for Basel for 70 years from 1870. Today it belongs to the canton of Solothurn and is a nature reserve. A true idyll!
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The Baslerweiher (also Basler Weiher or Baslerweier) is a small lake in the municipality of Seewen in the Swiss canton of Solothurn. It is located in the Jura, has an average water level of 560 m above sea level and an area of approx. 1.7 ha. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baslerweiher
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Between the oak grove and Wildenstein Castle, the castle pond lies somewhat hidden and inaccessible behind a dense thicket. It's an idyllic spot that deserves protection. There's no path to its shore, and that's a good thing, because countless animal species make their home here and appreciate being left in peace. And let's be honest. Would we really like it if every Tom, Dick, and Harry descended on us uninvited, made a lot of noise, and perhaps even left behind a mess? At least there's this: For hikers and walkers, there are two lovely park benches right by the path by the pond, inviting you to linger.
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The Ermitage is a large and lovingly designed green area from 1785, with three idyllic ponds, several romantic grottos, historical buildings, pretty walking paths between the shore and the edge of the forest and, on top of it all, the castle ruins of Bierseck Castle, as the crowning glory of the whole. It is a wonderful place for physical and mental relaxation, but those seeking peace and quiet should visit outside of the holidays or weekends. It is a real visitor magnet. Warning! The grottos can only be reached on foot and via steep stairs. The rest of the garden is mostly wheelchair accessible and suitable for pushchairs. There are no parking spaces directly at the Ermitage! Free entry!
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A princess pond through and through. If you are very quiet, you can hear the lovely ladies laughing ;-)
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Beautiful castle pond with various aquatic plants and animals, clearly visible from the path. Part of the nature reserve.
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For families and swimming, Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden offers small lakes within a family-friendly setting. In the Canton of Schwyz, Lauerzersee (Lake Lauerz) is particularly popular, known for its warmer waters, sandy shallow areas, bouncy floats, diving platforms, and a playground, making it ideal for children.
Yes, the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden is a significant historical site, being the largest English landscaped garden in Switzerland. It features Birseck Castle, small caves, and several small lakes, all designed with romantic names and historical concepts. Additionally, the former Lake Seewen in the Canton of Solothurn holds historical importance, with ongoing revitalization efforts to restore its natural feature.
The lakes around Seewen offer diverse natural features. Lauerzersee in Schwyz is nestled between the impressive Rigi and Mythen peaks, providing stunning panoramic mountain backdrops. The Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden features a forest setting with small lakes and caves. Wildenstein Castle Pond and Basler Weiher are part of nature reserves, showcasing various aquatic plants and animals.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling, explore routes like the 'View of Gempen Village – View of Gempen and Gempenturm loop' or the 'Music Box Museum Seewen – Basler Weiher loop' from Cycling around Seewen. Gravel biking options include the 'Big Bench at Blatten Pass' route from Gravel biking around Seewen. Running trails like the 'Chastelbach Waterfall – Chaltbrunnental Waterfall loop' are also available, as detailed in Running Trails around Seewen.
Yes, both Wildenstein Castle Pond and Basler Weiher are part of nature reserves. Basler Weiher, in particular, became the property of the Canton of Solothurn in 2008 and is now a protected nature reserve, offering an idyllic setting.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and family fun, the warmer months are ideal, especially for Lauerzersee. For hiking and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Winter can also be picturesque for those interested in winter hiking, though trail conditions should be checked.
Lauerzersee in the Canton of Schwyz is easily accessible, with good connections from Schwyz train station. For other lakes and trailheads, public transport options are generally available, but it's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for your chosen destination.
Yes, the region features several artificial water bodies. Basler Weiher was originally created as a drinking water reservoir for Basel and is now the largest lake in the Canton of Solothurn. The Lower Pond is one of three artificially created ponds within the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings. The Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden is loved as a place of rest and for its extensive natural and historical features. Basler Weiher is described as an 'absolute dream, especially in autumn' and an 'idyll'. The general appeal includes the stunning mountain backdrops, relaxed atmospheres, and the blend of natural beauty with historical significance.
Many of the lakes, especially those within landscaped gardens or nature reserves like the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden and around Basler Weiher, offer relatively easy and family-friendly walking paths. Lauerzersee also provides accessible areas for enjoying the lakeside.
Yes, areas around popular lakes like Lauerzersee often have cafes, pubs, and restaurants nearby. For example, Seebad Seewen on Lauerzersee is a popular spot. In general, the villages and towns surrounding the lakes offer various dining options for visitors.
The former Lake Seewen in the Canton of Solothurn is significant for its historical transformation. Formed about 8,000 years ago, it was drained in 1588 to combat mosquito plagues. The area became a wetland and was fully drained by 1923. There is now a strong local interest and ongoing revitalization projects to rebuild the lake and develop the area for tourism, highlighting its natural and historical importance.


Still not found your perfect lake around Seewen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.