Oeschinen Lake (German: Oeschinensee) is a lake in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) east of Kandersteg in the Oeschinen valley. At an elevation of 1,578 metres (5,177 ft), it has a surface area of 1.1147 square kilometres (0.4304 sq mi). Its maximum depth is 56 metres (184 ft).

The lake was created by a giant landslide and is fed through a series of mountain creeks and drains underground. The water then resurfaces as the Oeschibach. Part of it is captured for electricity production and as a water supply for Kandersteg.

In observations from 1931 to 1965, the elevation of the lake surface varied between 1,566.09 metres (5,138.1 ft) and 1,581.9 metres (5,190 ft). The average seasonal variation was 12.2 metres (40 ft) (September/April).

See on Google Maps

Have a look at the summer hiking map for the Oeschinen Lake area above Kandersteg. The 8-person gondola takes you from Kandersteg up the mountain, where you’ll find a restaurant with a view. The mountain coaster is directly behind the gondola station.

To reach the lake, we can also walk on the dirt road, following signs to Oeschinensee. At the lake, we will find rocky beaches, picnic areas with fire pits, two restaurants/hotels and row boats to rent. You can swim in the lake but the water is very cold.