Ah, the crisp air of fall in Switzerland—it’s the kind that fills your lungs with energy and your heart with wanderlust. On a sunny November, I decided to embrace the season by hiking from Kandersteg to the enchanting Blausee, one of the most picturesque spots in the Swiss Alps.
Nestled in a serene forest and surrounded by towering peaks, Blausee is not just a feast for the eyes but a place of power, steeped in legend and natural energy. Many say the lake has a calming aura, perfect for reflection and renewal—a destination that leaves you feeling as though you’ve tapped into something deeper. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty, a gentle workout, and a touch of fairytale magic, this journey is for you.
Let me walk you through the hike, what you can do at Blausee, and all the practical tips you need to make the most of your visit.
The Hike from Kandersteg to Blausee
The hike starts in Kandersteg, a charming Alpine village perched at an altitude of 1,200 meters. Known for its dramatic peaks and tranquil valleys, Kandersteg is a haven for hikers, with trails branching off in every direction.
As I arrived by train—Kandersteg being the last stop before the Lötschberg Tunnel—I found myself in the middle of this Alpine wonderland, with a large trail signpost right in front of the station pointing to Blausee, marked at about 1 hour and 20 minutes away.
The trail to Blausee, a modest 5.2 kilometers (3.2 miles) long, begins gently enough, winding through the village before leading to the Kander River. Although the main trail was closed during my visit, a well-marked detour through the village seamlessly brought me back to the regular route.
Following the river, my steps accompanied by the soothing sound of the water rushing over smooth rocks, I soon came upon the only significant climb of the hike—a brief ascent through the forest after the weir. Beyond this point, the trail gently descends again, eventually passing a small waterfall (sadly dry during my visit, but I imagine it’s spectacular in spring or after heavy rains).
Even in late November, the trail was a feast for the senses. Golden leaves carpeted the ground, the air was cool and invigorating, and snow dusted the peaks above. Every so often, I stopped to soak in the views, my pace dictated not by the trail’s difficulty but by its sheer beauty. As I reached Blausee, the landscape opened up to reveal a scene straight out of a fairytale.
The lake itself is nestled in a magical setting of gnarled trees, moss-covered rocks, and water so clear and vibrant that its blue-green hues almost seem unreal. Despite having seen countless photos of Blausee, the moment I stood on its shore, I was spellbound. The clarity of the water, the surrounding stillness—it’s like stepping into a dream. This hike wasn’t just a walk in nature; it was an experience of serenity, power, and timeless beauty.
Blausee’s Origins: A Geological Wonder with a Touch of Legend
Geologically, the lake was formed around 15,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. As glaciers receded, they carved out valleys and left behind pockets in the terrain that filled with water from mountain springs. Blausee is one such pocket, fed by underground springs that keep its water exceptionally pure and vibrant, with a striking blue-green hue. This coloration comes from the lake’s unique mineral composition and the way sunlight interacts with its crystal-clear waters.
However, science is only part of the story, then Blausee’s magic isn’t just geological. It’s also steeped in local lore and revered as a place of spiritual power.
According to legend, a young maiden, heartbroken by the loss of her lover, would visit the lake to grieve, her tears mingling with the water. One fateful night, her sadness became so profound that the lake turned blue to match the color of her eyes, forever preserving her memory.
Today, a submerged statue of the maiden at the bottom of the lake serves as a poignant tribute. Many visitors claim they can feel the lake’s energy—a sense of tranquility and renewal that makes Blausee not just a scenic spot but a soul-stirring sanctuary.
Top Things to Do at Blausee
Once you arrive at Blausee, there’s plenty to keep you enchanted. Here are my top recommendations:
Explore the Lake
A stroll around Blausee is like stepping into a fairytale, with scenic trails that showcase the lake’s magical surroundings from every angle. Though Blausee is small, it’s packed with charm, offering several footpaths to explore.
Take the Schluchtenweg (gorge path) to discover the dramatic beauty of the Felsenzimmer and Wolfsschlucht gorges or follow the Brückenweg (bridge path) to the Wasserhaus and the playground.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to a natural symphony of imposing firs and deciduous trees, moss-draped rocks, and pristine forest features. It’s a truly idyllic escape into nature.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
One of the highlights in summer is the short but sweet glass-bottom boat ride (included with your entry ticket and there’s no reservation required). You glide over the lake, peering into its depths to see trout swimming lazily beneath you—it’s a unique way to experience the lake’s magic.
Visit the Trout Farm
Blausee isn’t just a scenic gem—it’s also home to a renowned organic trout farm, where you can dive into the fascinating world of sustainable aquaculture. In the visitor’s area, you’ll learn how the farm’s commitment to quality over quantity sets it apart.
Certified by Bio Suisse and Bio Inspecta, the trout thrive in spacious ponds with shaded spots, gentle watercourses, and backwater areas where they can rest. With low stocking densities and a focus on their well-being, these fish are raised with care that matches the pristine beauty of their surroundings.
Relax and Rejuvenate
Blausee is a haven of tranquility. Grab a bench, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the peace of the place wash over you.
Grab a Bite at the Restaurant
When it’s time to refuel at Blausee, you’re spoiled for choice! Overlooking the serene turquoise waters, the Blausee Restaurant offers a delicious menu of locally sourced and seasonal dishes, including trout fresh from the lake’s own organic farm—a must-try for any seafood lover.
If you’re after something lighter (and easier on the wallet), the cozy café is perfect for a quick bite, serving everything from bagels to slices of homemade cake.
Visiting during the summer season? Don’t miss the bistro where you can enjoy tasty Blausee fish nuggets, grilled sausages, crisp salads, and even ice cream—a true treat for casual al fresco dining in this magical setting.
Shop a Souvenir
If you’re looking for the perfect keepsake to remember your trip to Blausee, don’t miss the charming shop located right by the main entrance to the nature park. It’s a treasure trove of unique gift and decorative items, as well as Blausee souvenirs. The shop also stocks fresh organic alpine trout products.
Take the Kids to the Playground
If you are visiting with family, you will be happy to know that there’s a fun playground next to the Wasserhaus with its bathroom facilities. It boasts lovely picnic and barbecue spots, and the firewood is provided free of charge.
Entry Fee
A visit to Blausee is not only magical but also affordable! On weekends and holidays, tickets cost CHF 10 for adults and CHF 6 for children aged 6 to 15, while on weekdays, adults’ tickets drop to CHF 8 and kids’ cost CHF 5. If you arrive after 4 pm, you’ll save CHF 2—a perfect excuse to enjoy the golden hour glow over the lake while stretching your budget a little further.
Best Time to Visit Blausee
Blausee is a year-round destination, but my November visit was a perfect blend of quiet serenity and natural beauty. In summer, the lake comes alive with vibrant greenery, while in winter, it transforms into a snow-kissed wonderland straight out of a storybook.
The nature park is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm, but it’s always a good idea to check the current hours on www.blausee.ch, as special events might lead to changes.
Where to Stay at Blausee
If you want to extend your stay, the bijou grand hotel dating from 1878 offers 15 cozy, individually decorated rooms with either lake or mountain views in the main building and three stylishly furnished suites with balconies offering lake views in a separate chalet. There are also three detached and exclusively furnished forest houses offering forest views.
Hotel guests benefit from free access to the spa and nature park, as well as free parking, wifi and an à-la-carte breakfast.
Staying overnight lets you experience the lake at its most serene—especially magical in the early morning or under the stars.
How to Get to Kandersteg (hiking)
By Public Transport
If you’re coming from Zurich like I did, getting to Kandersteg is super easy by train. Start by hopping on the Intercity to Bern—it’s a smooth one-hour ride. From Bern, switch to the BLS train heading to Kandersteg, which takes another hour. Trains to Kandersteg depart once every hour. Once you arrive in Kandersteg, your hiking adventure to Blausee begins right from the station. The journey is comfortable and filled with stunning views, making it the perfect prelude to a day of exploring nature!
By Car
By car, you can reach Kandersteg via the highway from Bern toward Thun-Spiez, followed by the national road leading directly to Kandersteg. Once you completed your hike from Kandersteg to Blausee, you can take the bus back to your car in Kandersteg. You can find a list with parking lots here.
How to Get Directly to Blausee
By Public Transport
Getting to Blausee by public transport is a breeze! Catch the hourly BLS train from Bern—it’s the same one you’d take to Kandersteg—and hop off in Frutigen. From there, jump on bus 230, which will whisk you to the Blausee BE bus stop in just 15 minutes. It’s simple, scenic, and stress-free!
By Car
If you’re coming from Bern, take the highway towards Spiez. From Spiez, continue on the main road heading towards Frutigen-Kandersteg. Shortly after passing Kandergrund, just follow the signs. You’ll find the entrance right next to the parking lot.
Final Thoughts
Blausee isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. From the moment you start your hike in Kandersteg to the time you stand on the shores of this impossibly blue lake, every step is a reminder of nature’s power to inspire and rejuvenate.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a family looking for a peaceful day out, or a couple seeking romance, Blausee has something special to offer. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and head out—you won’t regret it.
