Five Lakes Hike

The highlight of my trip to Switzerland was undoubtedly the Five Lakes Hike (5-Seenweg) in Zermatt. Before setting off, I had heard that this trail not only offers stunning reflections of the majestic Matterhorn but also takes you to five uniquely charming alpine lakes, making it a classic among Swiss hikes. Early in the morning, I took the cable car up the mountain from Zermatt. The air was fresh with a faint scent of pine, and my excitement grew as I approached the highlands. The first stop was Stellisee, the most famous photography spot. The weather wasn’t perfect, with some clouds in the sky, but the lake remained crystal clear like a mirror. When the mist occasionally cleared, the towering Matterhorn reflected on the lake’s surface, creating a postcard-like dreamscape. I sat quietly by the lake, watching photographers set up their tripods to capture the perfect reflection. I thought to myself: some landscapes must be seen in person to truly understand why they are so renowned. On the way to the second lake, Grindjisee, the trail meandered through pine forests and meadows. Occasionally, the sound of cowbells reminded me of the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature here. Grindjisee is surrounded by dense pine trees. Though not large, its deep green waters resemble a gem hidden in the forest. Standing by the lake, I could faintly see distant peaks. Compared to Stellisee’s openness, Grindjisee offered a sense of tranquility. Next was the third lake, Grünsee. As its name suggests, the lake’s water had a greenish hue. The lakeside featured expansive grasslands and low shrubs. Many families and hikers chose to picnic here, with children playing by the lake, creating a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. I sat down to enjoy my simple packed lunch, gazing at this alpine green lake and marveling at nature’s wonders—each lake showcasing a distinct personality. Arriving at the fourth lake, Moosjisee, the scenery took a sudden turn. The lake’s water was milky white with a bluish-green tint and appeared somewhat murky. Locals explained that this was due to the glacier meltwater containing fine mineral particles, giving the lake its unique color. Though not as "clear and captivating" as the previous lakes, Moosjisee exuded a rugged strength, reminding travelers of the harsh conditions behind the beauty of the highlands. Finally, I reached the fifth lake, Leisee, near the Sunnegga cable car station. This spot is popular among families, with wooden platforms and rest areas by the lake. Some visitors were playing in the water and enjoying themselves. Leisee felt approachable and friendly, unlike the solemn or mysterious vibes of the other lakes. It was a place to relax and chat with friends. I lay on the platform, gazing at the blue sky and mountain peaks, feeling the relaxation and satisfaction after the hike. The entire Five Lakes Hike took about three to four hours. Although there were some uphill and downhill sections, the difficulty was low, and the trail was well-marked. The journey was full of surprises, from the majestic mountain reflections to tranquil forest lakes and glacier-fed milky waters—every step was a delight. For me, this hike was not just about the scenery but also a spiritual cleansing. Along the way, I put down my phone and let go of my impatience, focusing on the grass, lakes, and distant mountains before me. True healing, I realized, is not about chasing more but about connecting deeply with nature. As I took the cable car back down the mountain, only one thought remained in my heart: If given the chance, I would definitely return, because the Five Lakes of Zermatt promise new surprises with every reunion.