The 10 Most Picturesque Lakes in Europe You Can Hike To

There’s something truly magical about arriving at a mountain lake on foot. The quiet stillness, the mirror-like surface, the way the light dances across the water; these are the kinds of moments that stay with you long after your trip ends. Whether you're trekking through alpine meadows or navigating rugged forest paths, hiking to a remote lake offers the perfect mix of effort and reward.

Here are 10 of the most breathtaking lakes in Europe that you’ll need to hike to (and why they’re worth every step!).

What’s New in 2027

• Lago di Braies restricts driving into the valley through the middle of the day in peak summer. You need to book a parking space or shuttle seat online in advance, or arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Walking and cycling in are allowed at any time.
• The Dolomites are busier than usual following the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, so book accommodation for Lago di Sorapis and Lago di Braies well ahead.
• Plitvice Lakes sells timed-entry tickets and the busiest slots sell out in summer. Book online before you travel.
• Loch Coruisk is reached by boat from Elgol or on a long, exposed walk. The boat runs seasonally and does not sail in poor weather, so build in a spare day.
• Several of these lakes sit above 2,000 m and hold snow into early summer. Late June to September is the reliable window for the alpine entries on this list.

Top 10 Scenic Lakes in Europe

1. Lago di Sorapis, Italy

Region: Dolomites, Northern Italy
Why Go: Nestled among jagged limestone peaks, this electric-blue lake looks almost unreal. The hike from Passo Tre Croci takes around 2–3 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding Dolomites.
Bonus: Enjoy a post-hike meal at Rifugio Vandelli right next to the lake.

Dreaming of the Dolomites? Explore our collection of self-guided hiking tours in the Dolomites to find the ultimate alpine adventure.

2. Schrecksee, Germany

Region: Bavarian Alps
Why Go: Germany’s highest alpine lake is accessible only by foot, and it feels like a hidden treasure. Its emerald waters and grassy islands are a photographer’s dream.
Trail Details: The hike is challenging (about 17 km round-trip with 900 m elevation gain), but the solitude and views are worth it.

Breathe in the crisp mountain air of the Bavarian Alps on a self-guided hiking tour in Germany.

3. Lac Blanc, France

Region: Chamonix, French Alps
Why Go: Framed by the towering Mont Blanc massif, Lac Blanc is a classic alpine destination for good reason. The reflection of snowcapped peaks in the water is simply breathtaking.
Tip: Start from the Flégère cable car for a shorter route with equally impressive views.

Trek one of the world’s most iconic routes and witness the beauty of Lac Blanc on one of our self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc tours. Our Chamonix trip planning guide covers the valley in more detail.

4. Llyn Idwal, Wales

Region: Snowdonia National Park
Why Go: Steeped in legend and surrounded by dramatic crags, this lake is an easy hike with a cinematic backdrop. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all levels.
Mythology: Local folklore claims the lake is bottomless and guarded by spirits, adding a touch of mystique to your adventure.

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Welsh countryside on one of these amazing self-guided hiking tours in Wales.

5. Lago di Braies, Italy

Region: South Tyrol, Italy
Why Go: Though it’s a popular destination, arriving early or visiting in the shoulder season gives you a peaceful experience. Surrounded by cliffs and dense forest, it’s postcard-perfect.
Insider Tip: Go in the fall when the larch trees turn gold and the crowds disappear. In peak summer you also need to book parking or a shuttle to drive in during the middle of the day.

Northern Italy is a dream destination, and our self-guided hiking tours in the Italian Alps offer the perfect chance to explore its beautiful terrain.

6. Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Region: Triglav National Park
Why Go: Often overshadowed by Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj is the quieter, wilder sibling. It’s encircled by forested trails, alpine meadows, and traditional Slovenian mountain huts.
Don’t Miss: Hike to the Savica Waterfall, then loop around the lake for panoramic views.

If you want to experience the natural beauty of Lake Bohinj, then be sure to browse our selection of incredible self-guided hiking tours in the Julian Alps.

7. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Region: Central Croatia
Why Go: Technically a network of 16 lakes, Plitvice is famous for its cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools. Wooden boardwalks and forest trails make this an easy and immersive hike.
UNESCO Site: It’s one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful national parks, for good reason.

Take in the majesty of the Plitvice Lakes on an unforgettable self-guided hiking tour in Croatia.

8. Loch Coruisk, Scotland

Region: Isle of Skye
Why Go: Accessible only by boat or a rugged hike, Loch Coruisk is a remote freshwater loch nestled in the heart of the Cuillin Mountains. It feels completely wild and untouched.
Adventure Factor: Prepare for changing weather and challenging terrain, it’s part of the charm.

Gaze out across the vast moors and lochs of the Scottish Highlands on a breathtaking self-guided hiking tour in Scotland.

9. Oeschinensee, Switzerland

Region: Bernese Oberland
Why Go: Surrounded by sheer cliffs and snow-dusted peaks, Oeschinensee is one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking alpine lakes. The turquoise waters are so vivid they seem lit from within, and the meadows along the shore make for a perfect picnic spot.
Hiking Details: You can take a gondola from Kandersteg and hike about an hour to reach the lake, or choose one of several longer trails that lead through alpine forests and flower-filled pastures.
Bonus: In summer, you can rent a rowboat or even take a refreshing dip in the icy waters.

Lose yourself in the beauty of the Swiss Alps on a self-guided adventure in Switzerland.

10. Seebensee, Austria

Region: Tirol
Why Go: Framed by the Zugspitze and Mieminger Mountains, Seebensee is a sparkling alpine gem reached by a scenic forest trail.
Combine With: A detour to Drachensee, another high-altitude lake perched even higher above.

Looking to hike in the Austrian Alps? Check out our collection of self-guided hiking tours in Austria to find your perfect experience.

Plan Your Lakeside Hiking Adventure

For those who crave a deeper connection with nature, these lakes offer more than just a beautiful destination, they offer a journey. Whether you’re tackling a high alpine route or enjoying a leisurely forest walk, the reward is always the same: a breathtaking view and the satisfaction of earning it.

If you’re planning your next self-guided European hiking holiday, why not make a lake the highlight of your route? Many of these destinations are part of multi-day self-guided or small group tours, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the view. For longer routes, see our 10 best treks in the Alps and our greatest multi-day hikes in Europe.

Need help with the logistics? Reach out to one of our travel specialists and take the first step on your next hiking adventure.