Rossens Dam is a concrete gravity dam built between 1944 and 1948 on the Sarine, between Fribourg and Bulle. You can walk across its crest and follow hiking trails along its reservoir.
Dams
Rossens Dam
Main highlights
- 83 m gravity dam with a 320 m crest you can walk across from end to end
- Reservoir holding 47 million cubic metres, about 10 km long and lined with trails
- Former submerged village, whose remains sometimes emerge when water levels are low in winter
Overview
Rossens Dam is located in the canton of Fribourg, about fifteen kilometres south of Fribourg. Built between 1944 and 1948, this concrete gravity dam stands 83 m high with a 320 m crest. It holds back the Sarine, forming a 47-million-cubic-metre lake that stretches about 10 km towards Broc.
It was one of the largest construction projects in post-war Switzerland. It led to the flooding of the old village of Rossens, whose residents were rehoused on the higher ground. The dam supplies the Hauterive hydroelectric power station downstream and regulates the flow of the Sarine to prevent flooding.
"*" indicates required fields
Things to see and do
Walking across the crest is the main activity. A walkway protected by railings offers a plunging view over the valley and the Sarine downstream, and upstream over the lake winding between wooded hills.
Several trails follow the lakeshore. On the right bank, a path links Rossens to Pont-la-Ville in about 2 hours, through forests and pastures. The lake is also popular with anglers for its pike, perch and trout; a cantonal permit is required. A cycle route connects the dam to Fribourg through the Sarine valley.
A sign near the dam tells the story of the submerged village. When water levels are low, especially in winter, the remains of the old bridge and a few buildings sometimes reappear. The new village, with its modern church, completes this chapter of history.
Practical information
Getting there : by car from Fribourg (about 20 minutes) or Bulle (15 minutes). Parking at the foot of the dam, on the downstream side. PostBus from Fribourg, stop « Rossens, village », a 10-minute walk away.
Visit duration : 30 minutes for the dam, 2 to 3 hours with a hike along the lake.
On site : free access, no interior tours. Shops and a restaurant in the village of Rossens.
Visitor tips
Bring walking shoes for the trails and a jacket against the wind, which is often strong on the crest. Take water and snacks : food options are limited along the lake. Keep an eye on children near the railings. In winter, check with the tourist office about the visibility of the remains.
Nearby attractions
- The Musée gruérien in Bulle presents the history and traditions of the region with scale models and an immersive tour.
- Gruyères Castle has overlooked the medieval town since the 13th century with its towers and historic rooms.
- The University of Fribourg Botanic Garden showcases 5,000 plant species over 1.8 hectares.
Report an error or complete the informations
Reviews about this place