Linth–Limmern Power Stations

The Linth-Limmern Power Stations are a pumped-storage facility in the Swiss Alps consisting of five reservoirs and four power stations operating at different altitudes. The system pumps water between basins at varying elevations to generate electricity.

Construction of the complex began in 1957 with the Limmern Dam, and by 1968 all original stations achieved a combined capacity of 340 MW. The project became one of Europe's first major pumped-storage facilities of this scale.

The facility shows how Switzerland harnesses mountain water for power while shaping the surrounding landscape. Visitors see today a dense network of dams and water channels that link the valley and higher elevations together.

Visitor groups can join guided tours that explain the hydroelectric systems and engineering of this mountain facility. Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, as trails run through mountains where weather can change quickly.

The Muttsee dam within this complex stands as Europe's highest dam at around 2500 meters elevation in the mountains. This extreme altitude allows the facility to harness dramatic height differences and makes it an exceptional engineering solution.