Lake Klöntal
Glarus
Lake Klöntal, known locally as Klöntalersee, is a natural lake situated in the Klöntal valley of the canton of Glarus, Switzerland. It was formed by geological events including a rockslide and subsidence and lies at an elevation of 848 meters above sea level, covering approximately 3.3 square kilometers. Since 1908, the lake has functioned as Switzerland's oldest major reservoir, impounded by the Rhodannenberg earthfill dam, which was originally 21.5 meters high and later raised to 30 meters to increase water storage for hydroelectric power generation. The lake's calm, mirror-like surface beautifully reflects the surrounding Alpine mountains, including the Glärnisch and Dejenstogg peaks. The lake serves as a hub for various recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, angling, and ice diving during winter months. Several campsites along its shores, marked hiking trails encircling the lake, and nearby natural attractions like the Sulzbach Falls and a protected nature reserve enhance its appeal. Its waters feed the Löntsch hydroelectric power plant near Netstal, which produces significant renewable energy through an intricate system of tunnels and turbines. The lake's ecological importance is underscored by conservation efforts and its role in regional biodiversity. Additionally, since 2026, the area hosts car-free Sundays during summer months to promote sustainable tourism and preserve its pristine environment.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lake Klöntal is during late spring to early autumn for warm weather and outdoor activities, or in winter for ice diving. To enjoy a peaceful experience, plan your visit on the car-free Sundays held on the last Sundays of June, July, and August, when motor vehicles are prohibited, allowing only hikers and cyclists. Advance planning is recommended for camping spots around the lake. While there are no specific ticket requirements, some activities may require permits or reservations, so check locally. Visitors should also be mindful of conservation rules in the nature reserve areas around the lake.
Faits intéressants
- •Klöntalersee is Switzerland's oldest major reservoir, with a dam first built in 1908 and later raised.
- •The lake's mirror-like surface often reflects the surrounding Alpine peaks, creating picturesque views.
- •Ice harvesting was commercially done on the lake until 1953 before modern refrigeration.
- •The lake supports hydroelectric power generation producing about 119 GWh annually.
- •Starting in 2026, the Klöntal valley hosts three car-free Sundays in summer to protect the environment.
Histoire
Lake Klöntal was naturally formed by a rockslide and subsidence in the Klöntal valley.
In 1550, fishing regulations were introduced to protect fish stocks.
During the 18th century, timber was transported across the lake for downstream use.
A significant battle took place in the Klöntal valley during the French Revolutionary Wars, where Russo-Austrian forces repelled the French.
Between 1905 and 1908, the Rhodannenberg earthfill dam was constructed, raising the lake's water level and enabling its use as a hydroelectric reservoir.
Ice harvesting was commercially practiced on the frozen lake until 1953.
In recent years, environmental studies have highlighted the lake's vulnerability to climate change, particularly the potential loss of winter ice cover.
Guide du lieu
Rhodannenberg Dam1908
An earthfill dam originally built between 1905 and 1908, raised later to 30 meters high, impounding Lake Klöntal and enabling hydroelectric power generation. It features a spillway to manage excess water during floods.
Löntsch Hydroelectric Power Station2016 (renovated)
Located near Netstal, this plant uses water from Lake Klöntal channeled through a 4 km pressure tunnel dropping 365 meters to turbines, producing up to 60 megawatts of renewable energy annually.
Nature Reserve and Surrounding Trails
The eastern shore of the lake hosts a protected nature reserve with unique shell limestone formations. Hiking trails encircle the lake, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and access to natural features like the Sulzbach Falls.
Camping Sites at Güntlenau and Vorauen
Popular camping areas located at the eastern and western ends of the lake, offering facilities for visitors to enjoy the natural environment and water activities.