Stellisee
Iconic alpine lake in Zermatt, famous for its perfect Matterhorn reflection. Part of the scenic 5 Lakes Hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical reflections & fewer crowds
Stellisee
Best Time
Magical reflections & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic alpine lake in Zermatt, famous for its perfect Matterhorn reflection. Part of the scenic 5 Lakes Hike.
"This lake simply the one you must visit for the best view."
🎯 Early Bird Gets the View
Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and capture the best Matterhorn reflections.
🚡 Ride Up, Hike Down
Take the funicular/gondola to Blauherd to start your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Matterhorn Reflection
Eastern corner of the lake
Witness the majestic Matterhorn mirrored perfectly in the calm waters of Stellisee. A photographer's dream!
The 5 Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg)
Trail starting from Blauherd
Embark on a breathtaking 9.3km hike connecting Stellisee with four other stunning alpine lakes.
+1
Sunrise Serenity
Stellisee
Experience the alpenglow on the Matterhorn and a tranquil lake before the crowds. Worth the early wake-up!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Accessing Stellisee: Plan Your Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Gets the View
Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and capture the best Matterhorn reflections.
🚡 Ride Up, Hike Down
Take the funicular/gondola to Blauherd to start your hike.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
No food facilities on the trail; bring snacks and water.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise offers the most stunning reflections and soft light.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Gets the View
Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and capture the best Matterhorn reflections.
🚡 Ride Up, Hike Down
Take the funicular/gondola to Blauherd to start your hike.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
No food facilities on the trail; bring snacks and water.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise offers the most stunning reflections and soft light.
🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but require good footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stellisee is celebrated for its breathtaking Matterhorn reflection, making it a must-visit for its iconic views. While the short hike from Blauherd is easy and the lake is perfect for picnics, visitors note that it can get very crowded, especially mid-morning. The best experience often involves an early start for sunrise or a peaceful overnight stay.
"This lake gave the best view I would say. Took an easy 15-30mins hike from Blauherd station. Could continue the 5 lakes hike or go back, but this lake simply the one you must visit."
Mato San
"Effortless walk. But many big groups of tourists. So it's very crowded. There’s some construction going on, but it didn’t affect the overall experience too much."
Char 1213
"📍 Stellisee @ Zermatt 🇨🇭
First Lake on the 5-Seenweg Hike – Scenic Reflections & Picnic Spot
Stellisee is the first lake you’ll reach when starting the 5-Seenweg (5 Lakes Walk) from Blauherd, and it’s easily one of the most photographed spots in Zermatt.
🌄 Postcard-Perfect View
Set against the towering backdrop of the Matterhorn, this alpine lake reflects the peak perfectly on calm mornings, offering an unforgettable visual.
🧺 Picnic-Perfect
This lake is a popular picnic spot, and it’s best to bring snacks or lunch from town—there are no food facilities on the trail. A perfect place to rest before continuing to the next lakes.
👣 Expect Crowds
Being the most iconic and closest to the trailhead, tourists often gather here, especially mid-morning. Arriving early helps you enjoy the serenity before the crowd builds.
🚡 Access
Take the funicular to Sunnegga, transfer to the Blauherd cable car, then walk ~20 minutes to Stellisee on a well-marked alpine path.
📸 Tips for Hikers & Photographers
• Finish the hike before 3 PM, as clouds tend to cover the Matterhorn by then.
• Best Matterhorn reflections are around sunrise—a reason to consider an overnight stay with mountain views.
• Start early to avoid the tourist peak and capture the beauty in soft morning light."
Quing_刘妈妈
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Stellisee, take the Gornergrat Bahn or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car from Zermatt. For the 5 Lakes Hike, you'll typically take the funicular to Sunnegga, then the Blauherd gondola. From Blauherd, it's a short, easy hike to Stellisee.
There is no direct parking at Stellisee. You'll need to park in Zermatt (which is car-free) and use public transport to reach the area.
While it's a significant hike, it's possible to hike from Zermatt to the Stellisee area, but most visitors opt to use the cable cars for a more accessible experience.
The hike from Blauherd to Stellisee is relatively short and easy, taking about 20 minutes on a well-marked alpine path. It's a popular route for its direct access to the iconic view.
Stellisee is primarily a summer and autumn destination. Winter access can be limited due to snow, and the 5 Lakes Hike is typically closed. Check local conditions before planning a winter visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need a specific ticket for Stellisee itself, but you will need to purchase tickets for the funicular and gondola to reach the Blauherd station, which is the starting point for the hike.
The operating hours for the funicular and gondola vary by season. Generally, they run from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Zermatt Bergbahnen website for current schedules.
No, Stellisee is a natural lake and there is no entrance fee. The costs are associated with the transportation required to get to the trailhead.
Yes, you can often book your cable car tickets online in advance through the Zermatt Bergbahnen website, which can save you time, especially during peak season.
Yes, various Zermatt travel passes, such as the Swiss Travel Pass or the Zermatt Peak Pass, may cover or offer discounts on the public transport needed to reach Stellisee.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is during sunrise for the most dramatic Matterhorn reflections and soft light. Early morning (before 9 AM) is also excellent to avoid crowds and capture clear shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflections and sky. A tripod is essential for sunrise shots and low-light conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show drones, it's crucial to check current Zermatt and Swiss drone laws before flying to ensure compliance.
Find the specific viewpoint on the eastern side of the lake where the Matterhorn is perfectly framed. Calm water conditions are key, which are most common in the early morning.
Experiment with different angles from the shoreline. Getting closer to the water can offer unique perspectives, and shooting from slightly elevated positions can provide a broader view of the lake and mountain.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike from Blauherd station to Stellisee is short and easy, typically taking around 20 minutes on a well-maintained path.
The 5 Lakes Hike (5-Seenweg) is generally considered a moderate hike. While Stellisee is easily accessible, the full trail involves some elevation changes and covers about 9.3 km.
There are no facilities directly at Stellisee. You'll find restrooms at the Blauherd station and potentially at other points along the 5 Lakes Hike.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, layers of clothing as mountain weather can change quickly, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Stellisee, as it's a protected natural area and the water is very cold. It's best enjoyed for its scenic beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services directly at Stellisee. The closest dining options are back in Zermatt or at mountain restaurants near the cable car stations like Blauherd.
It's recommended to bring your own snacks, sandwiches, and drinks from Zermatt. Consider local Swiss specialties like cheese, bread, and chocolate for a delightful picnic experience.
You can purchase groceries and picnic supplies from supermarkets and bakeries in Zermatt village before you start your journey up the mountain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the full 5 Lakes Hike might be a bit long for very young children, families can enjoy Stellisee and perhaps a portion of the trail. Leisee, the last lake on the 5-Seenweg, is particularly family-friendly, often featuring shallow waters and a playground. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The gondola ride up is also an exciting part of the adventure for kids!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots, especially in low light conditions. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflections and sky. Don't just focus on the main reflection; explore different compositions, including the surrounding alpine flora and the textures of the lake's edge. The 5 Lakes Hike offers numerous opportunities for stunning landscape photography.
🚶 Hikers and Trail Runners
+1Trail runners can enjoy the well-maintained paths, though some sections are rocky. The elevation gain is moderate, making it suitable for those looking for a good workout with incredible views. Remember to check trail conditions, especially early or late in the season, and be prepared for changing mountain weather.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the 5 Lakes Hike
+1While Stellisee is the most photographed due to its perfect Matterhorn reflection, don't overlook the charm of the other lakes. Grindjisee offers a similar, though often less crowded, reflection. Gränjisee provides a more rugged beauty, while Moosjisee is known for its striking turquoise color. Leisee, the final lake, is a popular spot for families with a small playground and shallow waters. The trail itself is well-maintained, though it involves some ascents and descents, making it a moderate challenge suitable for most fitness levels.
Many visitors choose to start their hike at Blauherd, making Stellisee the first stop. From there, they follow the signs for the 5-Seenweg. Alternatively, you can start at Sunnegga and work your way up. The entire hike can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each lake. It's a truly immersive way to experience the natural beauty of the Zermatt region.
Capturing the Perfect Reflection
Photographers often recommend arriving before dawn to secure a good vantage point and capture the alpenglow – the rosy hue that bathes the mountains at sunrise. The eastern side of the lake is generally considered the prime spot for this iconic reflection. While midday can offer clear views, the light is harsher, and the water may be less still due to increased visitor activity and potential breezes.
Beyond the main reflection, explore different angles. The surrounding alpine meadows and the textures of the lake's edge can add depth to your photographs. Remember to bring a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water, and a tripod is invaluable for those early morning or low-light shots.
Overnight Stays and Bivouacking
While wild camping regulations can be strict in Switzerland, bivouacking (a single night's stay with minimal equipment) is sometimes tolerated in certain alpine regions, provided it's done responsibly and with respect for nature. Always research local rules and guidelines before planning an overnight stay. The Fluhalp mountain hotel is also an option for those seeking more comfort, offering stunning views and a base for exploring the area.
Waking up to the quiet stillness of the mountains, with the Matterhorn looming overhead and the lake reflecting the dawn sky, is an experience that many travelers describe as pure heaven. It's a chance to disconnect and truly appreciate the grandeur of the Swiss Alps.
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