Lake Steinsee (Sustenpass)
Steinsee is a small, serene alpine lake located directly along the scenic Susten Pass, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain roads. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and snow-dusted peaks, the lake offers an ideal spot to pause and admire the high-Alpine scenery. Its still waters often reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a perfect photo opportunity. Easily accessible by car, Steinsee is a peaceful rest stop for travelers and a fantastic location to experience the raw beauty of the Swiss Alps without hiking. It’s the kind of quiet, untouched place that makes even a short stop feel like a deep breath of fresh mountain air.
"Steinsee is a small but striking glacial lake nestled in the high-altitude surroundings of the Susten Pass, which connects the cantons of Uri and Bern. At over 2,200 meters above sea level, the Susten Pass is considered one of the most scenic mountain roads in Switzerland, and Steinsee is one of its most tranquil and photogenic highlights. The lake appears suddenly alongside the road, as if hidden among the rocks and alpine terrain, offering a peaceful break amid an otherwise dramatic and imposing landscape.
The name “Steinsee” (literally “Stone Lake”) reflects the rocky, unspoiled environment that surrounds it. Jagged cliffs, patches of snow—even in summer—and the occasional waterfall create a wild and untamed setting. The lake’s calm surface often mirrors the nearby peaks, offering photographers and nature lovers a perfect moment of reflection—both visually and spiritually.
Unlike more developed alpine destinations, Steinsee remains natural and untouched, with no major tourist infrastructure. Its accessibility right from the road makes it an easy and rewarding stop for those driving or touring the Susten Pass. Many visitors simply pull over, breathe in the crisp air, take a few photos, and enjoy a few quiet moments beside the water.
The lake is also a starting point for nearby hikes or short strolls into the surrounding alpine landscape. In early summer, wildflowers bloom between the rocks, adding color to the otherwise stark terrain. On clear days, the view extends to the glaciers and peaks of the Sustenhorn region.
Steinsee is not a destination in the typical sense—it’s a place of pause. It’s where the sheer beauty of the Swiss Alps presents itself without crowds or noise, offering visitors a moment of silence and connection to nature. Whether you stop for five minutes or an hour, Steinsee will leave an impression."
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