ARVENSEELI

The Arvenseeli – Arven Lakes – are three small, deep-blue mountain lakes above the Bernese municipality of Kandersteg. The lakes are located in the high Sunnbüel plateau, a few hundred metres north of the cantonal border with Valais at an altitude of 1888 m (6194 ft.) above sea level. The Arvenseeli offer crystal clear, deep-blue water and lie amid lush alpine meadows and mighty fir and pine trees.

ARVENSEELI TRAIL

The trails leads from the Sunnbüel summit station to the Caribbean-like Arvenseeli in about half an hour. Behind the lakes is a beautiful and well-equipped barbecue site with benches and firewood.

ARVENSEELI BARBECUE SITE

A beautiful barbecue area with a large grill, firewood and seating is situated next to the Arvenseeli. This is especially suitable for families with children. You can also reach the barbecue site with an infant’s pushchair.

SPITTELMATTESEE

About 500 m (a third of a mile) away and outside the Swiss pine forest is another mountain lake of about the same size called Spittelmattesee.

WHY THE ARVEN LAKES RUN DRY IN SUMMER

Do you know why the Arvenseeli run out of water in summer? It’s because they are fed with melted snow and ice leftover from winter. Depending on the amount of snow, the lakes will contain water in spring or early summer for a shorter or longer period. That’s why they finally dry up as the summer progresses.