Plizio Visual Lab

Planken Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

The area around Planken's water bodies and alpine landscape is located in one of the steepest and most pristine environments in the Principality of Liechtenstein, at the foot of the Drei Schwestern peaks. Geographically, Planken is the country's smallest municipality by population, situated on a natural terrace high above the Rhine Valley. Historically, the region was a sanctuary for Walser settlers who cultivated the extreme slopes in the 14th century. Since large standing bodies of water are rare in this karst landscape, small alpine ponds and spring outflows are of immense ecological importance for the local fauna. The surroundings are characterized by rugged limestone cliffs and alpine mountain forests, providing a stark contrast to the industrialized valley floor below. From here, one has a direct view of the Rätikon massif and the Swiss mountains opposite. The area is accessible only via steep serpentines, preserving its character as a secluded mountain enclave that attracts hikers seeking tranquility.

Location: Liechtenstein
Top sights: Sankt Josef · Naturschutzgebiet Schwabbrünnen/Äscher · Friedhofskapelle St. Johannes
Nearby: Quadratscha (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-6	-5	-1	4	8	13	14	14	10	6	0	-4
Rain mm	92	70	91	93	147	173	169	185	121	103	91	93

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The small alpine lake is mostly reached via forest and mountain paths starting from the municipality of Planken. The ascent is done on foot and leads through the tranquil natural landscape of the alpine region.

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Best season

The summer months are good to experience the lake free of ice and the surrounding nature in full bloom. In winter, access is often much more difficult due to snow, and the lake can be completely frozen over.

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Terrain & paths

The path to the lake typically involves inclines on natural, sometimes stony mountain trails. Sturdy footwear is important as the terrain can be quite uneven and soft, especially near the water's edge.

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What to bring

Good hiking boots are required for the ascent, as is outdoor clothing appropriate for the weather. Since it can cool down quickly in the mountains, an extra layer of clothing should always be in your backpack.

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Parking

The car can be left in the designated parking lots in Planken before heading out on foot towards the mountains. Parking options directly at the starting point of the hiking trails are often somewhat limited.

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Safety

Hikers should always stay on the marked trails and keep a close eye on the unpredictable mountain weather. The shores of the alpine lake can be slippery, so caution is advised when approaching the water.

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Time needed

You should plan for a total of about three to four hours for the ascent, the stay at the lake, and the return to Planken. This allows enough time for a leisurely rest on the quiet shores of this alpine lake.

Geography

Coordinates

47.17240, 9.53630

Facts

Planken is situated at an elevation of approximately 786 meters above sea level.
The municipality was first mentioned in a document in the year 1361.
A challenging hiking trail leads from the village to the Gafadura mountain hut.
The Drei Schwestern peaks reach an altitude of 2053 meters.
Planken has the smallest population of all Liechtenstein municipalities.
Historically, the Walser people burned lime here in specialized kilns.