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Hidden Gems …. the Blausee
Switzerland
Where in the world is this? This photo was taken on a November day …. but where was it? Spain, Egypt, the Caribbean? In fact the top photo was taken at Blausee, a beautiful, crystal clear aqua-coloured lake in the Bernese Oberland, not far from Interlaken. This little park with its lake, gardens and pathways used to be a hidden gem. However, since it has become such a hit on Instagram, the formerly little known lake in the Kander valley, 900 m above sea level, has become a very popular destination for all ages. It has an enchanting fairy-grotto like appeal and is a great location from which to hike and explore this beautiful area. The statue of the girl was created in 1998 and the story is rather sad.
The Sad Legend of Blausee
A plaque next to the staue states: “In memory of the legend of the Blausee, the artist and sculptor Raphael Fuchs carved a statue of the beautiful young girl who was found dead in this lake many years ago. This was the place where she used to spend many romantic hours with her lover. After his sudden death, which she couldn’t come to terms with, she continued to return to the Blue Lake every night until she eventually died of grief herself”. The blueness of the lake was apparently caused by her tears.
The Hotel At Blausee
The lake itself is filled with fish including organic trout. There is a Hotel at Blausee directly on the lake and it has a great restaurant featuring fabulous trout specialities which is mentioned in the Gault Millaut, Guide Michelin and Gout Mieux guides.
The hotel was originally constructed in 1878 as a sanatorium for people to get some pure mountain air. As well as great views over this lovely lake the hotel also boasts a well-equipped spa with views directly over the water. What better place to escape the hurly burly of city life and relax?
Photo courtesy of Blausee Hotel and Spa
The Blausee Nature Park
The area is surrounded by a 20 hectare park which is open all year round from 9am – 5pm. You pay a fee to enter the park – CHF 12 for adults and CHF 8 for children on weekends in high season (under 5s are free) and during the week and during the Winter season, the entrance is lower. All fees go towards the maintenance and care of this very special park. In good weather you can take a trip on the lake with a glass bottomed boat, there are picnic areas and lots of walkways and you can even visit the organic trout farm for free.
In Winter the scenery changes but the colour of the lake remains the same.
The surrounding park land is stunning and it’s wonderful to just walk around.
It is certainly a beautiful place to visit any time of the year with it’s magical water and beautiful park – a real hidden gem and which makes for a great day trip from Zurich. The onsite restaurant is recommended and if your consumption exceeds CHF 30, you get the park entry fee for free.
Photos by Carmen Sirboiu
Blausee Location
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