This dive site, known as Churchill, is located in Thunersee, Switzerland. It features a gently sloping underwater topography, transitioning from scree in the upper regions to a mud slope deeper down. The site is uniquely characterized by numerous submerged trees and firs that create an otherworldly landscape, appearing to grow out of the lakebed. Divers should be aware that these trees can be partially covered with fishing nets, requiring careful navigation.
The Churchill dive site is home to various freshwater marine life. Large pike are frequently encountered, often found lurking around the submerged trees, making for exciting encounters. In the scree slope areas, divers can also spot burbot, bullhead, and perch, contributing to the site's biodiversity. The submerged trees themselves provide habitat and structure for smaller organisms.
The best time to visit this dive site would likely be during periods of warmer weather for more comfortable surface conditions, though diving in alpine lakes can be year-round with appropriate dry suit gear. Divers should exercise caution around the fishing nets to avoid entanglement. For freedivers, the gently sloping profile and moderate depth offer good opportunities for breath-hold diving among the unique tree landscape and searching for resident fish species.
