On a summer holiday, the mountains reveal their most stunning treasures. Far from the winter adventures of skiing and snowboarding, the most beautiful lakes in Europe get their moment to shine, once the ice melts of course. From wild swimming in Lake Schwarzsee, to waterside views of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps, lakes and mountains holidays in Europe should be at the top of every bucket list.
For unforgettable summer adventures, serene hikes, and family memories, these lakes are the perfect destinations. Offering alpine splendour and total immersion in nature, will you be visiting this summer? Discover our top 5 best lakes in the Alps and the Dolomites…
#1 Lac de Montriond
Lac de Montriond is for the wild-swimmers, the hikers, the view-seekers, and just about everyone else! It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best lakes in the Alps. The waters, calm and still, beckon visitors to jump in and experience the mountains from a different point of view. Whether you’re on a paddleboard taking in the lush green surroundings, or mountain biking through the surrounding peaks for a better vantage point, Lac de Montriond is certainly one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Additionally, there is a vast selection of luxury chalets in Morzine, just a short drive away! So, there’ll be no trouble finding a stunning summer chalet for your lakes and mountains holiday in the Alps. Check out our list of the top 10 summer chalets in Morzine to start your holiday planning!
The range of things to do on your Morzine summer holiday to Lac de Montriond is also well-suited to children! Try a pony-ride around the lake, which is always a hit with little ones. Follow this up with a family picnic, making use of the designated BBQ areas on the shore. Is there any better backdrop for making family memories than the beautiful mountain lakes of the French Alps?
#2 Lake Riffelsee
One of the highlights of a summer chalet holiday in Zermatt has to be seeing the famous Matterhorn! What better place to view this iconic peak than from beside one of the best lakes in the Alps? Lake Riffelsee boasts one of the finest viewpoints in the Swiss Alps. On a still day, visitors can witness the miraculous sight of this peak mirrored perfectly in the calm waters – a unique photo opportunity! But the Matterhorn isn’t the only thing to see at Lake Riffelsee. Part of a conservation area, it’s also home to a wide variety of mountain wildlife. For plant-lovers, unique and rare mountain flowers can be found surrounding the lake, which forms part of the Alpine Garden on the Gornergrat Ridge.
To access Lake Riffelsee, you can take a scenic journey on the Gornergrat Railway directly from Zermatt. Once you reach the Rotenboden station, you’ll find a hiking path to Riffelsee, which leads you on a 10-minute walk to this stunning spot. No expertise or specialist equipment required – just a passion for the mountains! Additionally, to see Lake Riffelsee arguably at its best, the train offers sunrise and sunset excursions; watch as the sun’s golden glow touches the mountains – a truly breathtaking vista.
#3 Lago di Sorapis
Almost 2,000 metres above sea level in the stunning Italian Dolomites is the magical Lago di Sorapis. Its secluded and elevated position befits its name, which translates to “above the waterfall”. The journey to this idyll is tough yet highly rewarding, offering the perfect challenge to experienced hikers. Starting at the Passo Tre Croci, adventurers will traverse rocky crags to be rewarded with breathtaking views of both the Dolomites’ peaks and the alluring water itself. It is truly one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. The signature bold turquoise colour is created by the limestone dust from the mountain above, which is passed down in the spring and summer meltwater. Lago di Sorapis is a must-visit on a summer lakes and mountains holiday in the Dolomites.
The best place to stay to experience the wonder of one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy is the neighbouring resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Just 20 minutes away by car, this enchanting Italian town is one of our top summer destinations in the Dolomites. Featuring boutique shops and gourmet restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred SanBrite, this resort offers a true summer mountain retreat. Luxury chalets in Cortina also offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in a luxurious mountain lifestyle. For instance, Chalet LV | 02 Perla includes its own spa and wellness area to rejuvenate well-worked muscles after hiking in the Dolomites to see the most picturesque mountain lakes!
#4 Lac Blanc
Lac Blanc stands as a pinnacle among the best lakes in the Alps. Its pristine waters reflect the snow-capped peaks, offering a stunning vista that draws hikers and nature lovers alike. After a picturesque trek from the resort town of Chamonix (take the gondola from Les Praz to La Flégère and the chairlift to L’Index, leaving a moderate 6.1km hike to the lake), this idyllic lake presents pure tranquillity in the Mont Blanc massif. Lakes and mountains holidays are enriched by the serene atmosphere of the breathtaking scenery in the Alps. Of course, Lac Blanc delivers on all fronts, making it an essential stop for those exploring lakes in Europe. And, to really elevate your trip, why not stay in one of our luxury summer chalets in Chamonix? From there, you can explore a whole range of summer activities in Chamonix, including high-adrenaline adventures like paragliding and alpine canyoning!
Beyond its spectacular views, Lac Blanc serves as a haven for mountaineers and day-trippers seeking a sense of peace and a holiday challenge. The journey to this alpine sanctuary is as enriching as the destination itself, and the lake features on the iconic Tour de Mont Blanc long-distance trek. The trail to Lac Blanc features both breathtaking vistas and alpine wildlife encounters. Keen eyes may spot a burrowing marmot, or perhaps an alpine ibex perched on a cliffside. Even the majestic Golden Eagle sometimes graces this beautiful mountain lake! Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or a starting point for further Mont Blanc exploration, Lac Blanc captivates every visitor.
#5 Lake Schwarzsee
Kitzbühel may be best known for its winter snow and being the home of the most demanding downhill ski races in the world (which can be viewed from the stunning Hahnenkamm Lodge). However, summer in Kitzbühel has a magical charm of its own, when you opt for an Austrian lakes and mountains holiday. One highlight has to be Lake Schwarzsee, one of the best lakes in Austria. This pristine alpine gem epitomises natural mountain beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling meadows, Lake Schwarzsee is the warmest moorland lake in the Tyrol region. In summer, it can reach temperatures of up to 27°C! A swim in this lake is both refreshing and inviting, and Lake Schwarzsee’s water is exceptionally clean. Some even say the high concentration of natural minerals is kind to your skin!
Wander for a spot of lunch overlooking the lake at Pipinos Restaurant, with a menu featuring some of the best seafood and steaks in the area, before heading back to enjoy some serene moments with a boat trip on the water. Here, you can really take in the view of the stunning Wilder Kaiser mountain chain. The views and beautiful wild swimming possibilities undoubtedly make Lake Schwarzsee one of the best lakes in the Alps.
Are you ready to explore the stunning mountain lakes in Europe? Let our experts help you kickstart your next adventure; contact our Summer Alps Specialists today! Give us a call or send us an email to start planning your very own trip to see the best lakes in the Alps.
