Lake Oberaarsee
Oberaarsee is a remote glacial lake located deep in the Bernese Alps, accessible via a spectacular drive along the Grimsel Pass. This reservoir, formed by the Oberaar Dam, is surrounded by rugged peaks and lies at the foot of the impressive Oberaar Glacier. The journey there—including a narrow, one-way mountain road and tunnel—is part of the adventure. Once you arrive, you’re met with breathtaking silence, icy blue waters, and panoramic alpine views. Oberaarsee is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering solitude, raw beauty, and the unforgettable experience of standing face-to-face with a retreating glacier.
Tucked away beyond the Grimsel Pass, Oberaarsee is one of Switzerland’s most spectacular and secluded alpine reservoirs. Located at over 2,300 meters above sea level, this glacial lake lies beneath the majestic Oberaar Glacier and is surrounded by a stark, awe-inspiring mountain landscape. Unlike more frequented tourist spots, reaching Oberaarsee requires an adventurous spirit: the journey includes a drive along a narrow, timed one-way road that winds past Grimselsee and through a carved mountain tunnel before opening up to a sweeping view of the lake and glacier.
Constructed in the mid-20th century, the Oberaar Dam created this reservoir as part of the region’s hydroelectric power infrastructure. Despite its man-made origins, Oberaarsee blends seamlessly into the dramatic alpine environment. The waters are fed directly by glacial melt, giving the lake its distinctive milky-blue color—typical of glacial lakes rich in fine rock flour.
Visitors are rewarded with one of the most pristine and peaceful settings in the Swiss Alps. The stillness of the lake, broken only by the occasional sound of shifting ice or wind across the rocks, creates a powerful sense of solitude. From the dam, a short hike leads toward the glacier, with panoramic views of ice fields, rugged cliffs, and distant peaks.
Oberaarsee is not commercialized, making it a true escape for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking quiet reflection in a raw alpine environment. Interpretive signs along the path provide insight into glacial movement and the impact of climate change on the region. On clear days, the reflection of the glacier and surrounding mountains in the lake is absolutely mesmerizing.
A visit to Oberaarsee is more than just a scenic stop—it’s an unforgettable high-alpine experience that connects you with the power and fragility of nature. Ideal for a day trip that feels like an expedition, it’s one of the most authentic and impressive landscapes Switzerland has to offer.
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