Loading Page...

Where is the coldest place in Switzerland summer?

Set in the Neuchâtel mountains, the village holds the record for being the coldest inhabited place in Switzerland.



The coldest place in Switzerland during the summer is generally considered to be the Glattalpsee, a small alpine lake located in Canton Schwyz at an elevation of 1,852 meters. Due to its unique topographical position—a deep, bowl-shaped valley where cold air pools—it holds the record for some of the lowest temperatures in the country, even in the peak of July. While cities like Zurich might be experiencing 30°C (86°F), it is not uncommon to find floating ice on the surface of Glattalpsee and patches of snow in the surrounding valley. For those seeking "eternal winter," the Theodul Glacier above Zermatt is another prime location, as it remains cold enough for summer skiing and snowboarding throughout the year. The Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," also maintains freezing or near-freezing temperatures year-round at its 3,454-meter observatory. If you are visiting these areas in 2026, it is essential to dress in heavy layers even in mid-August, as the combination of high altitude and the surrounding glaciers creates a microclimate that feels like a different season compared to the warm Swiss lowlands.

People Also Ask

Geneva is on average 1-2 degrees warmer than Zurich throughout the year, although both experience warm summers and cold winters. In summer, Zurich's river/lake swimming and lido culture comes alive. It's also possible to swim in Lake Geneva, which is a popular summer destination.

MORE DETAILS

Rainy day ideas and indoor activities in Switzerland.
  • Lindt Home of Chocolate. This offer appears in the following categories: ...
  • Bernaqua – adventure pool. This offer appears in the following categories: ...
  • Barryland – experience St. Bernard dogs live. ...
  • National Museum Zurich. ...
  • Zurzach thermal baths. ...
  • Chaplin's World.


MORE DETAILS

Some people experience altitude sickness when travelling up to the Jungfraujoch. Altitude sickness can happen if your body has difficulty adjusting to the lower levels of oxygen at high altitude. Symptoms of altitude sickness include: Headache.

MORE DETAILS

The water distributed in Switzerland meets very high-quality standards. Eighty percent of the water comes from underground sources, the rest is taken from the lakes. The establishment of groundwater protection zones makes it possible to distribute half of this water without having to treat it.

MORE DETAILS