Garichtisee, body of water
Garichtisee, also called Mettmensee locally, is a small mountain reservoir in the Glarus region situated at about 1,622 meters (5,321 feet) elevation. A dam controls the water flow downstream into the Niederenbach stream, and the lake stretches roughly 500 meters (1,640 feet) long and 200 meters (656 feet) wide.
The lake was created historically for water storage and to manage mountain runoff in the region. This system has supported nearby communities for many years and shaped water management in the Alpine valleys.
The name Garichtisee comes from old local words and hints at the lake's long history in the mountain landscape. Visitors come here today to slow down and experience the quiet beauty of the Swiss Alps, using the place as a peaceful refuge from daily routines.
A well-maintained walking trail circles the lake and takes about half an hour to complete the loop. The area has benches and barbecue spots for visitors, and nearby facilities include a mountain hotel and cable car station offering food and drinks.
The area is part of the Freiberg Karpf wildlife sanctuary, one of Europe's oldest protected reserves, which protects native animals and plants. Visitors can observe mountain birds and small mammals here and explore the landscape carved by ancient glaciers.
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