Walensee: A Natural Paradise in Switzerland

Where Can My Dog Go into the Water at Lake Walen?

In Switzerland, your dog is allowed to swim at most shoreline locations of Lake Walen – with exceptions. The official bathing beaches in Murg and Unterterzen are off-limits for dogs. Between Weesen and Amden, you will find natural shoreline areas without restrictions.

On the east bank near Walenstadt lies a small bay known to locals as the “dog corner”. The entry is shallow, and the water is clear. From my experience, dogs particularly love the cool mountain water here after a hike.

Near Quinten – the car-free village – a narrow path leads to the lakeshore. Here you disturb no one, and your dog can splash around freely. The water is particularly clean there, as Quinten is only accessible by boat or on foot.

Which hiking trails are doable with a dog?

The lakeside path from Weesen to Quinten is perfect for dogs. Eight kilometres without inclines, with three places to drink along the way. You walk directly alongside the water, and your dog can take a break in the lake at any time.

The hike to the Seerenbach Waterfalls demands more. 400 vertical metres, partly over scree. Suitable for dogs with sure footing from medium size upwards. Shaded resting spots await at the waterfall – a real relief on hot days for dogs with thick coats.

I only recommend the Murgsee circular route for experienced hiking dogs. 1200 vertical metres, stony sections, no refreshment facilities. Take enough water for your dog – the mountain lakes are often still too cold for drinking.

What legal aspects must I consider?

The leash requirement applies from 1 April to 31 July due to the breeding season. During this time, you stay on marked paths. From August to March, you may let your dog run free – provided it is recallable.

Chamois live around Quinten right down to the lakeshore. Here you should always keep your dog under control. A startled chamois kid can fall.

You must pick up and take away dog faeces everywhere. You will find rubbish bins in Weesen, Murg and Walenstadt. There are no disposal facilities between these towns.

How do I get to Lake Walen with a dog?

SBB trains to Walenstadt take dogs without a surcharge – you only need a ticket for your four-legged friend. From Zurich HB to Walenstadt, the journey takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

If you drive, you can park free of charge in Weesen directly by the lake. The car park holds about 80 cars and fills up quickly at weekends. Alternative: Murg car park (5 CHF per day), from there it is a 10-minute walk to the water.

The excursion ship “Stadt Rapperswil” takes dogs for an extra charge (15 CHF). The 90-minute round trip shows you all shoreline areas – so you can later find the best spots for dogs.

Where can I stay in a dog-friendly accommodation?

The Hotel Churfirsten in Walenstadt accepts dogs for 25 CHF per night. The ground-floor rooms have direct access to the garden. They also serve breakfast on the terrace – your dog can stay with you.

Camping Murg allows dogs without a surcharge. Pitches directly by the lake cost 35 CHF, those further back 28 CHF. Showers for dogs are available at the sanitary building. The campsite has its own dog beach.

You book holiday flats via Airbnb – filter by “pets allowed”. In Quinten, you will find two dog-friendly apartments from 120 CHF per night. The mountain village is car-free, perfect for relaxed dog holidays.

Frequently asked questions about Lake Walen with a dog

Is the water clean enough for my dog?

Lake Walen is considered an exceptionally clean Alpine lake. Your dog can generally drink from it without hesitation. The visibility depth is 8–12 metres – you will immediately see if your dog has injured itself.

Are there vets nearby?

In Walenstadt (Bahnhofstrasse 12), a veterinary emergency service is available on Saturdays. Another vet practice operates in Mels – about 15 minutes’ drive from the lake. Both practices are equipped for hiking accidents.

Can my old dog manage the lakeside path hike?

The path from Weesen to Quinten is flat and well-paved. A good choice for old or mobility-impaired dogs. After 4 kilometres, you reach Betlis – where the excursion ship stops, in case your dog gets tired.

What does dog transport on the ship cost?

Small dogs (up to 30 cm) travel free in a transport box. Large dogs pay 15 CHF for the round trip, 8 CHF for individual sections. There is more space on the upper deck for restless dogs.

Which season is best?

September to October are ideal. The water is still warm from summer, the hiking trails are dry, and there are fewer tourists around. In winter, the lake partially freezes – then swimming is impossible.

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