Walensee
Sankt Gallen
Walensee, also known as Lake Walen, is a beautiful natural lake located in the eastern Swiss Alps, spanning the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus. The lake covers an area of approximately 24 square kilometers at an elevation of 419 meters above sea level and reaches a maximum depth of 151 meters. It is uniquely situated in a deep U-shaped valley carved by the Rhine Glacier during the last ice age, with steep cliffs rising up to 1000 meters on both sides, creating dramatic and scenic landscapes. The lake's main inflow and outflow is the Linth River, which was redirected into the lake during the Linth correction in the early 19th century, significantly increasing its catchment area and lowering its water level. Walensee is known for its cool water temperatures, rarely exceeding 20°C in summer, due to its alpine location and cold inflows. Surrounding the lake are charming villages such as Walenstadt, Mols, and the car-free Quinten, which enjoys a mild Mediterranean-like climate and is accessible only by boat or hiking. The lake supports both commercial and recreational fishing, with species like whitefish, perch, and trout. Its largely unspoiled environment, with extensive forested and natural areas, makes it one of the least polluted lakes in Switzerland. Walensee is a favored destination for hiking, boating, and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the Churfirsten mountain range and a tranquil alpine atmosphere.
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Tip: The best time to visit Walensee is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is suitable for boating, hiking, and enjoying the mild climate of lakeside villages like Quinten. Consider purchasing boat tickets in advance during peak summer months to ensure availability. Visitors can explore hiking trails around the lake and use local public transport for convenient access to surrounding towns. Discounts may be available for group or regional transport passes. Note that Quinten is car-free and reachable only by boat or a scenic hike, making it a unique excursion. Bring appropriate clothing for cooler temperatures near the lake, even in summer.
Interesting facts
- •Walensee is one of the deepest lakes in Switzerland with a maximum depth of 151 meters.
- •The lake was formed by glacial activity during the last ice age, creating a dramatic U-shaped valley.
- •Quinten, a village on the lake's northern shore, is car-free and accessible only by boat or hiking, featuring a unique microclimate with Mediterranean vegetation like hemp palms and fig trees.
- •The Linth river was redirected into Walensee in the early 19th century, significantly increasing its water catchment area and lowering the lake's water level.
- •Walensee is among the least anthropogenically polluted lakes in Switzerland, with an oligotrophic state due to effective wastewater treatment and natural circulation.
History
Walensee was first mentioned in historical records in 843 AD under the name "lacu riuano".
The lake's name reflects its historical position as a linguistic boundary between the German-speaking Alamanni and the Romansh-speaking Welschen populations during the early Middle Ages.
The lake's hydrology was significantly altered by the Linth correction between 1807 and 1811, which redirected the Linth River into Walensee, expanding its catchment area from 421 to 1061 square kilometers and lowering the water level by 5.5 meters.
The surrounding region developed with settlements like Walenstadt, known since the mid-20th century by its current name, and the construction of transport infrastructure such as the A3 motorway and boat services.
The lake has a history of fishing dating back several decades, with detailed catch statistics recorded since 1933.
Place Guide
Quinten Village
A picturesque, car-free village on the northern shore of Walensee, accessible only by boat or a three-hour hike. Known for its Mediterranean-like climate and unique flora such as hemp palms and fig trees, Quinten offers tranquil lakeside charm and hiking opportunities.
Churfirsten Mountain Range
A striking mountain range rising steeply on the southern side of Walensee, with peaks reaching up to 2306 meters. The cliffs create dramatic scenery and offer hiking trails with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding valleys.
Linth River and Escher Canal1807-1811
The Linth River, originally flowing directly to Lake Zurich, was redirected through the Escher Canal into Walensee during the Linth correction (1807-1811). This engineering feat expanded the lake's catchment area and altered its hydrology significantly.
