Île d’Ogoz
An island accessible only when the lake recedes, revealing ancient castle ruins and stunning panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Low water levels & fewer crowds
Île d’Ogoz
Best Time
Low water levels & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An island accessible only when the lake recedes, revealing ancient castle ruins and stunning panoramic views.
"Unique experience to visit this island and mainly to be able to come there by foot when the water level is low."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rocky, so good walking shoes are recommended for exploring the island.
💧 Check Water Levels
Crucial for access! Visit www.lake-gruyere.ch for forecasts before your trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Castle Ruins
On the island
Explore the remnants of 13th-century towers and a chapel, offering a glimpse into history.
Panoramic Views
Top of the accessible tower
Climb to the top of one of the towers for breathtaking, sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
The Ephemeral Pathway
Lake Gruyère
Walk across the lakebed on a temporary path that appears only when the water recedes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Island Access
+1Plan for Crowds & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rocky, so good walking shoes are recommended for exploring the island.
💧 Check Water Levels
Crucial for access! Visit www.lake-gruyere.ch for forecasts before your trip.
🧺 Picnic & Grill
Bring a picnic! There are fireplaces available for grilling, making it a great family outing.
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available near the island, but it is paid until 4 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be rocky, so good walking shoes are recommended for exploring the island.
💧 Check Water Levels
Crucial for access! Visit www.lake-gruyere.ch for forecasts before your trip.
🧺 Picnic & Grill
Bring a picnic! There are fireplaces available for grilling, making it a great family outing.
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available near the island, but it is paid until 4 PM.
🗺️ GPS & Maps
Find detailed access info, parking, and GPS tracks on travel blogs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Île d'Ogoz offers a unique and memorable experience, primarily due to its ephemeral access via a pathway that emerges from the lake. Visitors appreciate the historical castle ruins, the panoramic views from the tower, and the opportunity for picnics. However, the island can get crowded, and access is dependent on water levels, requiring prior checks.
"It's a small castle ruins on a small island in the lake. One of the 2 castle is still accessible to the top for a panoramic view.
- One can access only during dry periods where the water level of the lake is low enough to visit on foot. We visited during April and it was low.
- The parking is paid until 16h and there were quite a lot of people during weekends and seasonal holidays.
- The visit duration, walking around, with young kids takes between 1h30 and 2h.
- If you come from far to the region, I would recommend to book as well a visit tour at the cheese factory "Gruyère"."
Dazzle
"Very beautiful island – definitely worth a visit. It’s better to go before the rain starts so you can walk to the building in the middle."
Leena Alexander
"An outing to Ogoz Island with the kids was truly memorable. While good shoes are recommended to navigate the rocky terrain, even the little ones were able to enjoy the stunning views. With ample space for grilling and picnicking, the island never felt overcrowded, even on a Saturday morning. Additionally, the nearby bus stop and boat access make it an easily accessible destination. On-site parking is convenient, albeit at a cost. In summary, a picturesque and family-friendly excursion not to be missed, and all for free!"
Georgina T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The island is accessible on foot via a temporary path that emerges when the Lake Gruyère's water level is low, typically in spring. You can start your walk from the village of Pont-en-Ogoz.
Yes, there is organized parking available near the island. It is paid until 4 PM.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of a nearby bus stop is mentioned, suggesting public transport is a possibility.
For exploring nature and lakes in the Fribourg region, consider checking train routes as Switzerland has an excellent public transport system. Renting a car is also an option, but compare costs.
The island is a prominent feature in the lake when accessible. Following local signage or using GPS coordinates from travel blogs can help.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Île d'Ogoz is free of charge. The main cost to consider is parking.
The island is accessible only when the lake's water level is low enough to walk across. There are no set opening hours, but it's generally only available for a few weeks in spring.
The best time is during spring when the water level is low, allowing you to walk to the island. Check water level forecasts online.
The ruins of the castle, including two towers, are accessible. One tower has stairs leading to an observation platform. However, some parts might be closed to visits.
A visit, including walking around and exploring with young children, typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the accessible castle tower offers stunning panoramic views. The castle ruins themselves also make for dramatic shots, especially with the lake as a backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography, offering softer light and potentially fewer crowds.
Drone regulations vary by location in Switzerland. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views and the scale of the ruins. A standard zoom lens will be versatile for general shots.
The ephemeral pathway across the lakebed is a unique photographic opportunity, showcasing the temporary nature of the island's access.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants on the island itself. It's recommended to bring your own food for a picnic.
Absolutely! The island is a perfect spot for a picnic, and there are even fireplaces available for grilling.
The nearby village of Pont-en-Ogoz and the surrounding towns in the Gruyère region offer various dining options, from local cafes to restaurants.
Many visitors recommend combining a trip to Île d'Ogoz with a visit to the Gruyère cheese factory for a complete regional experience.
Expect delicious Swiss specialties, including fondue, raclette, and of course, Gruyère cheese.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature & History Enthusiasts
Exploring the 13th-century castle ruins and climbing to the top of the tower for panoramic views provides a rich historical and scenic experience. 📸 Photographers
The interplay of water, ruins, and landscape provides a compelling subject. Consider visiting during the golden hours for softer light and a more dramatic effect. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Ephemeral Access
+2 Travelers describe this as a magical experience, akin to stepping onto a hidden land that emerges from the water. It's crucial to check water level forecasts online, as this natural event dictates whether you can walk to the island. This unique access means that visiting Île d'Ogoz is not a guaranteed activity on any given day. It requires planning and a bit of luck with the weather and water levels. Social media content often captures the excitement of this temporary access, with creators sharing videos of the path appearing and disappearing.
+1 The island itself, though small, offers a sense of discovery and a connection to history, making the effort to time your visit worthwhile. Exploring the Island's History and Views
One of these towers is accessible and offers a rewarding climb to an observation platform. Many visitors, including families, find the exploration of these ruins and the climb to the top to be a highlight of their visit. The island also provides ample space for leisurely activities. Travelers mention that it's a great spot for picnics, with fireplaces available for grilling, making it a pleasant outing for families and groups.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit