1. Silsersee

Grisons, Graubunden

Lake Sils is nestled in the Upper Engadin Valley.

Enjoy swimming, water sports and excellent hiking, and cool off in the beautiful water. 

2. Caumasee

Flims, Graubunden

A beautiful alpine lake near Flims, with swimming, rock jumping, and paddle boats. It's a bit chilly at about 16C, so wait for a hot day in the height of summer to enjoy this scenic lake.

For more off-the-beaten path ideas that will show you Switzerland like you have never seen it before, visit  MySwitzerland.com/expats or get in touch with expats@switzerland.com or phone 0800 100 200.

Paddle boat on the Caumasee

3. Aquabasilea

Pratteln, Basel

While the Säntispark near St. Gallen is perfect for families, Aquabasilea is fun for adults. There are warm relaxing pools with massage jets, a sauna, and poolside bar.

4. Bains des Paquis

Geneva, Vaud

One of the most popular spots in Geneva, this is the perfect spot for relaxing and sunbathing during the warm summer days.

5. Valle Verzasca

Locarno, Ticino

Such a special place, it's hard to describe properly. It's a beautiful river near Locarno.

After walking across the much photographed Roman's Bridge (pictured to the left), you can lounge on the rocks next to the refreshing river.

Valle Verzasca

6. Aare river

City of Berne

Winding through Berne, there are several spots where you can hop in the river. The currents can be strong, so take care and wear a floatie, if needed.

Aare river

7. Thermalbad Brigerbad

Brig, Valais

This spa is the biggest thermal bath complex in the Swiss alps! Perfect for swimmers, families, couples.

Thermalbad Brigerbad

8. Lauerzersee

Lauerz, Schwyz

This little lake overlooking the Rigi Moutain is perfect for families, as the water tends to be a bit warmer.

9. Emme river

Trubschachen, Berne

The Emme River winds through the Emmental Valley. For an exciting day out, head to Trubschachen to taste cookies at Kambly Factory and then cool off at a beautiful swimming hole off a garden path. 

Emme river

10. Yvonand

Yvonand, Neuchâtel

Miss the sea? Head to the sandy beach at Yvonand on the Lake Neuchâtel.

Photo credits: © Engadin Tourism/ Jakob Edholm; © Ticino Turismo Byline:swiss-image.ch/Christof Sonderegger; © Ticino Turismo Byline: swiss-image.ch/Remy Steinegger; © swiss-image.ch/Photo Andy Mettler © Switzerland Tourism - By-Line: swiss-image.ch/Markus Aebischer © Bern Tourismus By-Line: swiss-image.ch/Terence du Fresne; © Valais/Wallis Promotion By-Line: Valais/Wallis Promotion/Olivier Maire; © Switzerland Tourism - BAFU By-Line: swiss-image.ch/Renato Bagattini