Klingnau reservoir

Walks around the lake reveal an expansive landscape and give an idea of the dimensions of the formerly wild floodplain area. Due to the constant silting up of the reservoir, other habitats soon developed alongside the open water areas: from mudflats to fen vegetation and reed beds to young floodplain forest, the reservoir provides a habitat for a wide variety of animal and plant species.

The observation tower erected on the western shore in 2004 provides an unobstructed view of the lake. Panels on the top platform of the tower show the most common inhabitants of the lake. An information board also provides information on the bird species currently present and natural history activities around the reservoir.

Bird paradise created by man

Numerous watercourse corrections in the 19th and 20th centuries and the damming of the Aare in 1935 destroyed a formerly extensive floodplain area in the area of today's reservoir. The newly created reservoir soon developed into a water and migratory bird reserve of international importance. Every year, several thousand ducks and gulls spend the winter at the reservoir. But the area is also becoming increasingly important for breeding birds in summer.

Fragments of the formerly extensive floodplains

Excursions to the neighbouring nature reserves of Gippinger Grien, Giriz, Machme and Fischergrien/Werd provide insights into typical floodplain habitats. With a bit of luck, you might hear the call of a cuckoo, catch a glimpse of the iridescent kingfisher or see a grass snake meandering through the water.

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Opening Hours

The Klingnau reservoir can be visited all year round.