Bachalpsee

Bachalpsee sits at about two thousand two hundred and sixty metres on the shelf below the Faulhorn, and the reason it is photographed more than almost any other Swiss lake is geometry: the water is shallow and sheltered, the Schreckhorn and Wetterhorn stand almost due south across it, and on a windless morning the reflection is close to perfect. A low natural dam splits the lake into two basins, the smaller one six metres lower; together they cover about eight hectares. The walk in from the First gondola station is broad and nearly level, which puts an alpine reflection within reach of people who would never manage a mountain path - and that accessibility is exactly why it is rarely quiet. Continuing up to the Faulhorn adds a couple of hours and loses most of the crowd.

What you'll find

• A near-perfect reflection - the Schreckhorn and Wetterhorn doubled on still water.
• Two basins in one lake - a low ridge dividing it, joined by a channel.
• An easy hour from the gondola - broad path, very little climbing.
• The Faulhorn above - two more hours for the ridge and the long view.

When to go

Late June to October. Half a day, arriving early - the reflection needs calm air.

Practical notes

Wind ruins the mirror, and by mid-morning there is usually some. The path is busy in summer. Snow lingers into June and the lake can stay frozen. The gondola is expensive and stops running in the evening.

Nearby

First and the ridge walks are above; Grindelwald is down the valley.

Key facts