Blausee

Blausee, Switzerland’s natural mountain lake located in the Bernese Oberland region within the Kander Valley. It is renowned for its natural surroundings and the striking blue color of its water. Blausee lies at the center of a protected nature park and functions as an accessible natural area for visitors.

^{Blausee (}unsplash⁾

The lake water is deep blue and highly transparent. Underwater tree trunks, rocks, and a stone statue on the lakebed appear close to the surface due to the water’s clarity. During winter, a striking visual contrast forms between the lake’s water and the snow cover.

A local narrative is associated with Blausee. According to this story, a young woman living near the lake in the past had an emotional bond with a shepherd. It is said they spent evenings on a boat on the lake under the moonlight. After the shepherd fell to his death from the mountains, the young woman entered a deep period of mourning. It is recounted that she continued visiting the lake at night until one morning she and her boat were found at the lake’s bottom. The legend links the lake’s deep blue color to this event.^【1】 

Blausee is at the center of a 20-hectare nature park closed to vehicular traffic. The park features a walking path with a wooden bridge along the lakeshore and a platform extending over the water. Trails through the forest pass among twisted trees and moss-covered rocks. The lake and its surrounding landscape were formed approximately 15,000 years ago by a rockslide.^【2】 

^{Nature Park (Photo: Emine Nur Erdem)}

During the summer months, alpacas and llamas are present within the Blausee Nature Park. The animals are moved to a seasonal pasture in the Sommerau forest clearing where they are kept in their natural environment. Visitors can observe these animals within the park area.

^{A llama at Blausee (Photo: Emine Nur Erdem)}

Admission to Blausee includes access to picnic areas, fire pits, a natural play area for children, and a visit to an organic trout farm with natural pools. During summer, trout products are served at a café by the lake and a restaurant with lake views. A glass-bottomed rowboat tour on the lake is included in the admission fee during the summer season. Swimming in the lake is not permitted. Between November and March, diving is allowed for visitors holding a valid diving certification.

Bus services connect Blausee to Frutigen and Kandersteg. Transportation is free for holders of the Berner Oberland Pass, and admission to the lake is discounted. Visitors who arrive at Blausee on their birthday receive free admission.

Within the Kander Valley region where Blausee is located, Oeschinen Lake near Kandersteg serves as a second destination for visitors. The area is characterized by mountain ranges, waterfalls, and lake landscapes. During winter, the region around Kandersteg is among the areas used for cross-country skiing.