Framed on the southern side by the Albis and Zimmerberg hills and on the north by the Pfannenstiel chain of hills , scenic Lake Zurich is transformed into an oasis of fun , exhilarating outdoor activities and epicurean delights as spring gives way to summer , the days grow longer , and temperatures reach their annual peak . In fact , so magical is this time of year on the lake that locals and visitors alike flock to its shores to indulge in thrilling water sports and scenic biking adventures , savor exquisite chocolates and cheeses , or sunbathe in the shadow of the supreme natural beauty that borders it .
One of the most favored means of exploring Lake Zurich is by boat . For those anxious to live like the locals , there is no more popular local activity than gliding through the crystal-clear waters of the lake where idyllic , Instagrammable views of lush green landscapes await and the snow-capped Alps peek over the horizon . Though most destinations around the shore are served by a regular boat service all year round , summer adds a unique air of enchantment to the experience . The undisputed favorites among locals are the two historic paddle steamers — the “ Gipfeli-Schiff ” ( early mornings ) and the “ Sonnenuntergangs-Schiff ” ( sunset sailings ).
Local favorites notwithstanding , there is something to be said for the exceptional culinary cruises offered on Lake Zurich , which include everything from cheese fondue , chocolate tasting , and build-your-burger cruises to BBQ and brunch cruises . Similarly , for those who prefer a dinner and dancing experience , unique party boats serving an array of musical flavors ranging from salsa and country to the best of the 80s , 90s , and 2000s are also available . And let ’ s not forget , of course , the destination cruises which transport passengers to some of the most popular shores on the lake .
Among the most well-liked destinations on Lake Zurich is the “ rose town ” of Rapperswil , located at the lake ’ s eastern end . Resplendent with public gardens blooming with some 16,000 rose bushes of more than 600 different varieties , this delightful lakeside riviera is a wonder to behold . Boasting Mediterranean charms , a picturesque Old Town , a medieval castle , and ample options for swimming and sunbathing — Seebad Rapperswil Lido at the foot of the castle is particularly beloved — Rapperswil is not only one of the defining charms of Lake Zurich but of Switzerland itself .
Another trendy destination on the lake is Ufenau Island — or , as the locals call it , “ Ufnau ” — which , though tiny , is also the largest island in Switzerland . Owned by Einsiedeln Abbey since the year 965 , the island is home to abbey-managed vineyards , a chapel , and a restaurant — but swimming is strictly prohibited . Swimming is permitted on the smaller Lützelau Island , directly next to Ufnau . And , yes , in case you were wondering , island-hopping is not merely encouraged ; it ’ s a thing . Schedules and itineraries permitting , of course .
Now , lest you think that cruises and island hopping are the only ways to enjoy the pleasures of Lake Zurich , be advised that there are many other ways to avail oneself of the lake ’ s splendor . The Swiss are very outdoorsy in general and take great pleasure in nature . It is not uncommon to see Zurich ’ s plentiful lidos ( bathing spots ) filled with locals and tourists basking side by side in the sun or taking a quick dip in the lake throughout the day in the summer months .
The lake is also a popular destination for all manner of watersports . While stand-up paddleboarding ( SUP ) is all the rage on the lake , wakeboarding and waterskiing are equally in vogue . Canoeing , kayaking , windsurfing , and sailing are often accompanied by classes for beginners . There is even an “ Urbansurf platform ” in Zurich-West where novice and professional surfers can surf to their heart ’ s content right in the middle of the city . And why not ? Who says Hawaii gets to have a monopoly on surf and sand ?
Beyond the lake , a few scenic bicycle routes provide yet another opportunity to sample the beauty of Lake Zurich . On the more leisurely side is Cycle Route 66 , which wends its way from Zurich to Rapperswil along the right bank of Lake Zurich through picturesque neighborhoods and vineyards . Meanwhile , the Heart Route ( Cycle Route 99 ) takes cyclists once around the Obersee and as far as the famous abbey village of Einsiedeln . It is also possible to cycle around the entirety of Lake Zurich ; however , at a distance of 56 miles , it is not for the faint of heart .
Activities aside , Lake Zurich is also a destination that invites indulgence in many of the things for which Zurich is well-regarded , not least among which are the city ’ s culinary delights . A veritable foodie paradise , Zurich is renowned for the breadth and scope of its epicurean offerings . In summer , when many people spend much of their time outdoors , these offerings make their way to the shores of Lake Zurich , where many restaurants and bars entice guests to dine outside in the open air in secluded gardens or at fashionable “ Badi-Bars .”
Lastly , one cannot talk about Zurich without discussing chocolate . While Lake Zurich may have its charms , Swiss chocolate is equally enchanting . Case in point , in a Willy Wonka-worthy new building by the lake designed by star architects Christ & Gantenbein , sits the Lindt Home of Chocolate , the largest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the world . A bona fide chocolate wonderland , the store boasts a 30-foot-tall chocolate fountain , an ultra-modern Lindt café , where guests are treated to delicious homemade waffles and chocolate specialties , and an interactive multimedia exhibition that guides visitors through seven different chocolate worlds . And , as a bonus for true chocolate lovers , visitors to the store can even learn how to handle chocolate and create their chocolate masterpieces at the Lindt Chocolateria under the expert guidance of the Lindt Maîtres Chocolatiers .
Elsewhere in the city , Sprüngli Paradeplatz , one of Zurich ’ s most eminent café-salons , serves what is widely considered to be the best “ Heisse Schoggi ” ( hot chocolate ) in town alongside delicate macarons filled with delectable ganaches and creams in a chic setting . Additionally , for true chocolate lovers not satisfied with simply buying the best and most famous chocolate in Switzerland , there are multiple workshops and guided tours to partake in , including a chocolatecentric walking tour of the city and an eco-friendly private city tour in an electrically powered eTukTuk accompanied by chocolate fondue .
So , there you have it . Lake Zurich is a sensory feast — a blend of flavors , adventure , and natural beauty .
Summer , sun , spectacular vistas , foodie finds , and fun on one of the most majestic lakes in Switzerland dipped in a sea of mouthwatering chocolate experiences … what more could anyone ask ?
FLYWASHINGTON . COM 28 SPRING 2024