schwyzmagazineSUMMER 2019

HIKING CLOSE TO HOME WIN A BRIEF SUMMER HOLIDAY SLEEPING IN UNUSUAL PLACES

IMPRINT Publisher Schwyz Tourismus AG, Zeughausstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz, www.schwyz-tourismus.ch Editing/Texts Schwyz Tourismus, Manuela Gili Sidler Cover photo Gaudenz Danuser Design/Layout Quersicht, visuelle Gestaltung, www.quersicht.ch Translations Rosemarie Graffagnini, www.graffagnini.ch Printing Merkur Zeitungsdruck AG, www.merkurdruck.ch

CONTENTS OVERVIEW AND ADVENTURE IDEAS 4FRANZ-KARL SCHULER, MUOTATHAL HIKING ACADEMY 6TOP EVENTS 11SASCHA KRÄHENBÜHL, LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER 12HIKING PLUS 16SLEEPING IN UNUSUAL PLACES 19QUIZ 21ARMIN GRAB, BEAVER CREEK RANCH 22WELLNESS FOR TIRED LEGS 24SUMMER RECIPE 25PETER MATHIS, LOCAL MANAGER OF HIKING TRAILS 26HIKING TIPS 28

EINSIEDELN-YBRIG- LAKE ZURICH REGIONEinsiedeln-Ybrig-Zurichsee AGHauptstrasse 858840 EinsiedelnPhone +41 55 418 44 88www.eyz.swiss

RIGI REGION – SUMMIT AND LAKEGuest service RigiBahnhofstrasse 76354 VitznauPhone +41 41 399 87 87www.rigi.ch

DISCOVERY REGION MYTHEN

Brunnen Schwyz Marketing AGBahnhofstrasse 156440 BrunnenPhone +41 41 825 00 40www.erlebnisregion-mythen.ch

STOOS-MUOTATAL REGION

Stoos-Muotatal TourismusGrundstrasse 2326430 SchwyzPhone +41 41 818 08 80www.stoos-muotatal.ch

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2 CONTENTS AND CONTACTS

FOREWORD

THE HIKING WORLD OF SCHWYZ – NEAR YOU

Imagine strolling through the cool woods in the summer heat. Gaining elevation step by step while keeping track of your heart rate. Lighting a campfire with your kids and prepping the sausage skewers. No matter what kind of hiker you are, you will find a suitable route among the trails of Schwyz.

You will also meet four people in this edition for whom hiking is an integral part of their lives. Mountain guide Franz-Karl Schuler teaches people how to hike safely in mountainous terrain. Landscape photographer Sascha Krähenbühl roams the central Swiss sceneries and patiently waits for the perfect light before he presses the shutter release button. Armin Grab’s Western World offers both fun and relax-ation for hikers. And Peter Mathis maintains a segment of the Way of St. James on the Etzel, “his” mountain.

The magazine also features a quiz, a summer recipe to try out, and lots of ideas for hikes and excursions. Fleecy clouds in the sky or foehn-swept waves on Lake Lu-cerne or hills shrouded in mysterious mists – the landscapes of Schwyz never fail to intrigue and are in easy reach of your home.

ALTENDORF

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ST. GALLENZURICH

WINTERTHUR ZUG

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03/2018

SEEWEN

Engelstock

SCHWYZ

BENNAU

STEINEN

RICKENBACH

ISLETEN

SATTEL Gr. Mythen

Hochstuckli

Biberegg ALPTHAL

Morgartenberg

Chatzenstrick

Raten

MORGARTEN

BIBERBRUGG

Etzel

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EINSIEDELN TRACHSLAUROTHENTHURM

IBACH

Kl. MythenBRUNNI

Holzegg

Mostelberg

INGENBOHL

BRUNNEN

ALTDORF

BECKENRIED

LUZERN

ROTKREUZ

STANS

MORSCHACH Fronalpstock

Schwyz-Schlattli

STOOS

Aufiberg

Oberberg

ILLGAU

Ried

Brünnelistock

Ibergeregg

MUOTATHAL

Rotenflue

Wasserbergfirst

OBERIBERG

Weglosen Forstberg

Druesberg

UNTERIBERG

STUDEN

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WILLERZELL

Sattelegg

GROSS

Hummel

Stöcklichrüz

INNERTHAL

Sternenegg

Timpel

PFÄFFIKON

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ARTH-GOLDAU KÜSSNACHT a.R.Rigi

Kulm

WEGGIS

RIGI KALTBAD

GERSAU

Rigi Scheidegg

STEINERBERG

LAUERZ

Hochflue

SISIKON

BAUEN

SEELISBERG

Rütli

Klingenstock

RIEMENSTALDEN

Rophaien

Chaiserstock

MERLISCHACHEN

IMMENSEE

ALTENDORF

SCHINDELLEGI

Burggeist

WOLLERAU FEUSISBERG

JONA

GALGENEN SIEBNENSCHÜBELBACH REICHENBURG

TUGGEN

WANGEN

VORDERTHAL

Glattalpsee

Glattalp

BISISTHAL

Pfannenstock

Gross Aubrig

Glärnisch

Fluebrig

SilberenBös Fulen

Ortstock

Pragel

Zindlenspitz

St. Meinrad

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BödmerenwaldSt. Karl

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Copyright: www.swissknifevalley.ch

Schwanau

FREIENBACH

Ufenau Lützelau

VITZNAU

Treib

GREPPEN

V i e r w a l d s t ä t t e r s e e

L a u e r z e r S e e

Ä g e r i s e e

Z u g e r S e e

Z ü r i c h s e e

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OVERVIEW AND ADVENTURE IDEAS

MORSCHACH GOLF COURSEGreat golf, great viewswww.golfclub-axenstein.ch

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NATURE AND ANIMAL PARKEuropean wildlifewww.tierpark.ch

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LAKE LUCERNECruising through historywww.lakelucerne.ch

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VICTORINOX MUSEUMThe Swiss Army Knifewww.swissknifevalley.ch

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4 SUMMER PANORAMA

03/2018

SEEWEN

Engelstock

SCHWYZ

BENNAU

STEINEN

RICKENBACH

ISLETEN

SATTEL Gr. Mythen

Hochstuckli

Biberegg ALPTHAL

Morgartenberg

Chatzenstrick

Raten

MORGARTEN

BIBERBRUGG

Etzel

Nüsellstock

EINSIEDELN TRACHSLAUROTHENTHURM

IBACH

Kl. MythenBRUNNI

Holzegg

Mostelberg

INGENBOHL

BRUNNEN

ALTDORF

BECKENRIED

LUZERN

ROTKREUZ

STANS

MORSCHACH Fronalpstock

Schwyz-Schlattli

STOOS

Aufiberg

Oberberg

ILLGAU

Ried

Brünnelistock

Ibergeregg

MUOTATHAL

Rotenflue

Wasserbergfirst

OBERIBERG

Weglosen Forstberg

Druesberg

UNTERIBERG

STUDEN

EUTHAL

WILLERZELL

Sattelegg

GROSS

Hummel

Stöcklichrüz

INNERTHAL

Sternenegg

Timpel

PFÄFFIKON

RAPPERSWIL -

ZÜRICH

HandgruobiRätigs

ZUG OBERÄGERIUNTERÄGERI

WALCHWILWildspitz

ARTH-GOLDAU KÜSSNACHT a.R.Rigi

Kulm

WEGGIS

RIGI KALTBAD

GERSAU

Rigi Scheidegg

STEINERBERG

LAUERZ

Hochflue

SISIKON

BAUEN

SEELISBERG

Rütli

Klingenstock

RIEMENSTALDEN

Rophaien

Chaiserstock

MERLISCHACHEN

IMMENSEE

ALTENDORF

SCHINDELLEGI

Burggeist

WOLLERAU FEUSISBERG

JONA

GALGENEN SIEBNENSCHÜBELBACH REICHENBURG

TUGGEN

WANGEN

VORDERTHAL

Glattalpsee

Glattalp

BISISTHAL

Pfannenstock

Gross Aubrig

Glärnisch

Fluebrig

SilberenBös Fulen

Ortstock

Pragel

Zindlenspitz

St. Meinrad

SihlseeliRICHISAU

Sali

BödmerenwaldSt. Karl

Spirstock

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Oberwil

Chräbel

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Copyright: www.swissknifevalley.ch

Schwanau

FREIENBACH

Ufenau Lützelau

VITZNAU

Treib

GREPPEN

V i e r w a l d s t ä t t e r s e e

L a u e r z e r S e e

Ä g e r i s e e

Z u g e r S e e

Z ü r i c h s e e

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A l p n a c h e r s e e

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LAKE WÄGITALFishing amid the peakswww.waegitalersee.ch

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LAKE ZURICHRelaxing cruiseswww.zsg.ch

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HÖLLOCHIntriguing cave systemwww.trekking.ch

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ALPAMAREWater world of slideswww.alpamare.ch

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5SUMMER PANORAMA

Inga, Jessica and Manuela are looking at the map on the screen. The dots mark scree, the shaded areas de-note stretches of karst, the flags stand for mountain restaurants. Taking note of the contour lines they are figuring out a route that will take them from Lake Waldi across the Älpler Stock to the Älpler Horn – and back to Lake Waldi via the Geissstock. “To be able to interpret GPS data and maps is one of the most im-portant things,” explains course instructor Franz-Karl Schuler. When you can’t discern a trail or if it is poorly marked, he says, only a geographic map, a sharp sense of orientation and either a GPS or a com-pass will help you to continue. Clocking up 120 moun-tain tours a year, Schuler speaks from experience.

GOOD PLANNINGThe heat is building up in the small meeting room of the “Husky-Lodge” restaurant in Muotathal. Outside, the shading spruce forest is cooling the rocky land-scape. Although they are raring to go, the three wom-en at the table are very focused. Their love of being one with nature has led them all the way to the Mu-otathal Hiking Academy. “I’ve come here for the sec-ond time already, I find it so invigorating,” says Inga. Manuela enjoys the wonders of the alpine flora. Jes-sica, on the other hand, has a clear-cut goal: “I’m of-ten travelling on my own and would like to know how far I can trust my abilities in the mountains,” she says. It’s a question that everybody should ask before

HIKING ACADEMY: Led by their guide, Inga, Jessica and Manuela safely negotiate the Muotatal mountain world. Above: on Glattalp framed by the Höch Turm (left) and Ortstock (in the back) mountains. Right: at Lake Waldi.

FRANZ-KARL SCHULER, MOUNTAIN GUIDE, MUOTATHAL HIKING ACADEMY

HOW TO HIKE PROPERLY – BE TRUE TO YOUR ABILITIESStep by step. Left foot, right foot. Need to know more? Yes! The Muotathal Hiking Academy teaches people how to move safely in the mountains. Mountain Guide Franz-Karl Schuler conducts the course “Alpine hiking”.

6 HIKING COURSES

setting off on a hike. Mountain guide Franz-Karl Schuler is convinced that the most important ques-tion – Is this the right hike for me? – can be answered with the help of a map and good planning.

PROPER EQUIPMENTNine kilometres, 900 metres of altitude difference, 7 hours of walking. That’s what Inga, Jessica and Ma-nuela have planned for the next day. According to the mountain and alpine hiking scale, their hike would qualify as T4/T5, that is, challenging alpine hiking. “So, what would need to be part of the equipment, what needs to go into the backpack?” the instructor asks. Once all the details, from the first-aid kit to the glucose energy tablets, have been discussed, it is clear that a simple bicycle backpack won’t do. Least of all for the 64-year-old mountain guide. He will also take along a rope in case someone begins to feel a bit shaky en route. Indeed, in tomorrow’s practical course, the women will learn to handle situations that require some basic climbing, crossing snowfields, traversing steep grassy slopes and negotiating screes.

Finally, the three amateur hikers study the weather forecast. It predicts an afternoon thunderstorm for the next day. Which means that the group will have to get up and kick off much earlier than planned. Not because they worry about getting wet but because they have now learned that a storm in the mountains can spell danger. Outside, the sun is still shining. So Inga, Jessica and Manuela pack up fast before enjoy-ing the last rays of the day on their skin.

MOUNTAIN FAN: Franz-Karl Schuler is drawn to the mountains several times a week.

“Key question: Is this the right hike for me?”

MUOTA- THAL

'75'

'50''60'

'45'

LUCERNEZURICH

ZUG AARAU

ROUTE CATEGORIES

Hiking trail: no special skills required. Shoes with slip-proof soles are recommended.

Mountain trail: good physical health, surefoot-edness, a head for heights and sturdy footwear are essential.

Alpine trail: be sure to be in excellent physical condition, surefooted and free of vertigo, and to have alpine experience and the proper equipment.Source: Schweizer Wanderwege

The Muotathal Hiking Academy teaches people how to move safely in mountainous terrain. Courses for beginners or for more experienced hikers can be booked at Erlebniswelt Muotathal. www.erlebniswelt.ch

7HIKING COURSES

MORSCHACH

RIDDLES AND HIKESCan you fit kids, hikes and guessing games into one activity? Absolutely. The family hiking quiz guaran-tees three fascinating days in Morschach, in the Stoos region and in the Muotatal. Each day offers a differ-ent tour that will keep the families busy guessing, playing and marvelling at: a cellphone safari, a moor-exploring path and a weather forecast trail. The hiking pass, which doubles as ticket to a potential quiz victory, is available from the Swiss Holiday Park. www.swissholidaypark.ch

NEW ADVENTURES

SEEWEN

From the grape to the wineA guided tour of the winehouse Schuler St. Jakobs kellerei in Seewen will take visitors to another world. Here they experience first-hand and close up the many facets involved in wine-making – from the in-house cooperage, one of the last in Swit-zerland, to the ancient vault, to the barrique cellar, to the interactive aroma course, to the extensive cork collection. The tour finishes with a tasting of exquisite wines.www.schuler.ch

RIGI

THE BEAUTY AND THE BEASTSThe beasts are Derya, Enzo and Max – the cute and vigilant Saint Bernard dogs. The beauty is the Queen of the Mountains – the Rigi. The cuddly animals show the guests around the Rigi on the “Barry tour”. After the hike, a bar-becue at the restaurant BärgGnuss awaits. www.rigi.ch/barrywanderung

PFÄFFIKON

Is that a poker face, or rather not?We look at lots of different faces every day. Do we read them correct-ly? The face is an important tool for our social interaction and is also the focus of an exhibition at the Vögele Kultur Zentrum in Pfäffikon, from 19 May to 22 September 2019. The show combines everyday life with art and science. At the centre are dif-ferent themes such as facial expres-sions, the urge for self-presentation and face recognition technology.www.voegelekultur.ch

MUOTATAL

Steep ascents, technically challenging single trails and a primeval forest – that’s what the Muotatal mountain world has on offer for adventurous bikers. In early July 2019, the new 25kilometre bike route will open to the public. www.stoos-muotatal.ch

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8 SUMMER WORLD

TELL-TALE NUMBERS

183

1270200 000

People with a sweet tooth will love the family-run Restaurant Q-Hof on Mostelberg. Here, just 50 steps from the mountain station of the revolv-ing gondola cableway, they can in-dulge in ice cream all’italiana – from the Gelateria Artigiana in Brunnen. From mid-September to mid-Octo-ber, the restaurant cuisine also pre-pares game from the fallow deer breeders “Töni” on Mostelberg.www.mostlers-q-hof.ch

2018 was a record-breaking year for Alp Chäserenholz. In the alpine dairy, Franz-Toni Kennel made 3,600 cheese wheels from 200,000 litres of milk. In doing so, he also generat-ed a lot of whey. If booked in ad-vance, visitors can take a whey bath in a wooden barrel. The cosy Chäser-enholz restaurant is just a few min-utes’ walk from Rigi Kulm.www.rigi.ch

95Totally regional. The family-run Stoos Hüttä mountain hotel was 95 per cent built from local timber, in-cluding interiors and furniture. No wonder each room is named after a tree. The restaurant offers wining and dining of a heavenly kind – with views of the car-free mountain vil-lage of Stoos and the two Mythen peaks. www.stooshutta.ch

The first lookout on the Sihlsee mountain walk is Gueteregg, at 1,270 metres above sea level. Here the Schönbächler farming family looks after the chapel and runs a beautiful mountain restaurant. On sunny days, the venue is very popular with hikers and bikers alike. On iffy days, you will have no problem finding a table.www.gueteregg.ch

The fourth generation of the Gwerd-er Family still moves their cattle to the Pragel pass each summer. And even after renovating their moun-tain restaurant, the Gwerders con-tinue to prepare food on wood-burn-ing stoves using only home-grown and local products. The Pragel pass is an ideal starting point for hikes in the Bödmeren Forest or across the Silberen karst terrain.www.pragelpasshoehe.ch

What exactly is a “splendid view”? At the Gipfelstubli mountain restaurant it means that you can see 183 peaks of the Alps of Schwyz and Glarus. Lo-cated next to the mountain station of the Rotenflue cableway, the Gipfel-stubli is also the perfect starting point for panoramic tours of the Mythen region. www.gipfelstubli.ch

16Looking to celebrate a milestone birthday, a hen or stag night, or a family reunion? At the Adlerhorst mountain restaurant in Hoch-Ybrig, events can be held in a homely set-ting with far-reaching views. Two dormitories for up to 16 people allow the guests to party without a care. The Adlerhorst lookout can be reached on foot from Laucheren sta-tion in about 50 minutes.www.adlerhorst-oberiberg.ch

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ALPINE RESTAURANTS 9

Strüby Immo AG6423 Seewen SZ | T +41 41 817 47 47 | www.strueby.ch

Ihr Kraftort inmitten der Erlebnisregion Mythen Schwyz.

www.karl-illgau.ch

Zu ver

kaufen

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SPECIAL EVENTS IN SCHWYZ

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS

For more information on these and other events, go to: www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/events

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11 MAY TO 27 OCTOBER 2019

Glass art exhibition26 international glass artists showcase their works in the Ital Reding estate in Schwyz. Tradi-tional techniques meet modern design.www.verarte.ch

10 JUNE + 14 JULY 2019

Swiss wrestling festivalsSwiss wrestlers, alpine farmers and alpine dairy people gather amid a breathtaking scenery. It’s an archetypal experience for all generations.www.stoosschwinget.ch, www.rigi-schwingen.ch

16 JUNE 2019

1st Rigi Food FestivalCulinary highlights from the Queen of the Moun-tains: from traditional fare to regional slow food, Rigi Kaltbad offers it all.www.rigi.ch

19 AND 20 JUNE 2019

Tour de SuisseThe 5th leg of the Tour de Suisse cycling race will be decided on the magnificent square of the Abbey of Einsiedeln. Tent city with numerous attractions.www.eyz.swiss

25 JUNE TO 29 JULY 2019

Stradivari festival GersauA double dose of the extraordinary: Stradivari in-struments played live on the lakeside stage, framed by the beautiful scenery of Lake Lucerne.www.gersau.ch

27 JULY 2019

MusigGnuss StoosSwiss folk music festival with 17 ensembles. Well-known musicians from Schwyz and other musical hotspots perform in 10 restaurants. www.stoos-muotatal.ch

9 AND 10 AUGUST 2019

Music festival EinsiedelnCrimer, Seven, Sina and many more – bands and solo artists from various music genres perform on two large stages.www.einsiedler-musikfest.ch

16 TO 18 AUGUST 2019

Wind weekA water sport mega event in Brunnen on Lake Lu-cerne. Sailing championships with many side events for young and old.www.windweekbrunnen.ch

17 AUGUST 2019

“Brunnen kocht”Brunnen is cooking – culinary festival with speci-alities from around the globe. Hosting more than 30 amateur chefs – a huge open-air kitchen.www.brunnenkocht.ch

30 AUGUST TO 1 SEPTEMBER 2019

Schwyzer GmeindsfäschtA three-day festival celebrating the natural beauty of Schwyz, the capital of the homonymous canton, and the down-to-earth nature of its inhabitants.www.gmeindsfaescht.ch

31 AUGUST 2019

1st Central Swiss Beer FairRegional breweries present a plethora of different types of beer. Held on the lakeside promenade of Brunnen.www.biermarkt.ch

26 AND 27 OCTOBER 2019

Cheese market MuotathalA market featuring cheeses and other alpine prod-ucts from the surrounding Muotathal alps. With folklore performances and lots of folk music.www.alpkaesemarkt.ch

11EVENTS

SASCHA KRÄHENBÜHL, LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER

ONE WHO SET FORTH TO LEARN TO LOVE THE RIGICentral Switzerland – the world of Sascha Krähenbühl. He began to photograph its landscapes when he was nine years old. Yet the Rigi remained foreign territory. For the summer magazine he set out to discover the Queen of the Mountains.

“Sandal tourists!” “Full of people who rush past the Rigi, Interlaken and Zermatt in a single day.” In Sascha Krähenbühl’s hit list of mountains, the Rigi always came last. The 28-year-old spends every other day of his leisure time outdoors, observes nature and catches the play of light with his camera. He mostly

sets out on his own, the cellphone turned off, and decides on the spot whether to turn left or right. And he loves talking to alpine farmers about the weather and the wildlife. So what could the Rigi possibly offer him? He went in search of the answer on a July week-end.

MOUNTAINS AND LAKE: Sascha Krähenbühl’s photography pays homage to the beauty of Central Switzerland.

9:01 MEZ KRÄBEL

11:07 MEZ FELSENWEG

12 QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAINS

15:26 hJust like they did on the boat to Vitznau, the Asian tourists diligently document the journey on the cogwheel railway with their cellphones. I get off at Rigi Staffel and amble up to the famous Rigi Kulm. Too many people for my liking. I have to get away. But I don’t have to go far. Just 30 metres below the Kulm the tourist hype is out of sight and out of mind.

20:58 hThe last rays of evening light linger on the Fronalpstock and the Stanserhorn mountains. From the Rigi, the world looks small. These mountains, these lakes are my home. Now that the last of the sun has disappeared, a cool breeze takes hold.

SATURDAY, 09:01 hThe cable car glides from Kräbel to Rigi Scheidegg. Even though I grew up in Brunnen, I haven't been on the Schei-degg since I was a child. My goal is the Dossen. After a few minutes of walking I suddenly find myself alone, as if I were in a secluded spot. To the left Lake Lucerne, a shim-mering turquoise, to the right the jagged Mythen peaks. I walk in constant puzzlement: the occasional hikers I en-counter seem to have as much time as I have.

11:07 hAs I negotiate the steep descent to the viaduct, I can hear the distant sound of cow bells. Later the animals trot past me, framed by an alpine farmer family. I would have never expected such an ordinary mountain scene on the Rigi. I hike to Rigi Kaltbad and take the cable car down to Weggis. I love this about the Rigi – you can combine hikes and rides at whim.

15:26 MEZ RIGI STAFFEL

20:58 MEZ RIGI KULM

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13QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAINS

SUNDAY, 06:00 hI leave my night’s lodging at the alpine dairy Chäserenholz early. The mountain is wrapped in silence, a gentle breeze moves the air. My head is empty. But now a tinge begins to colour the Alps, the sky illuminates and the spectacle unfolds – a majestic sun rise.

09:06 hMy goal for the day is the Kräbel. At first, I hike towards Klösterli, but later I take aim at whatever catches my eye. The Rigi offers many opportunities for a spontaneous itin-erary. So I reach my goal after a lengthy detour and later than planned.

RIGI

'60'

'20''30'

'35'

ZUGLUCERNE

ZURICH AARAU

As a landscape photographer, Sascha Krähenbühl has to be at the ideal spot long before the perfect mo-ment. In two memorable days of getting (re)acquaint-ed with the Rigi, he has discovered many subjects and places that he would like to revisit. That’s why later on he bought himself a pass to the Rigi railways for the whole year. “Now I just have to wait for the perfect light,” he says.

The Rigi is not just a mountain, it is a world of its own. Those eager to explore it will find many interesting bits of information on the website.www.rigi.ch

“The Central Swiss mountains and lakes are my home.”Sascha Krähenbühl

6:00 MEZ ALP CHÄSERENHOLZ

9:06 MEZ KULMHÜTTE

14 QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAINS

From 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Competent and

friendly attended!

Saturday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The choice for all your needs.

Surprisingly different! | Pfäffikon SZ | seedamm-center.ch

EINSIEDLER-BIERTRADITION AUS DERURSCHWEIZ SEIT 1872 www.einsiedlerbier.ch

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MUOTATHAL

PRIMEVAL JUNGLENobody needs to be afraid of tigers or gorillas. But visitors will spot black grouses through the binoculars or hear the call of the pygmy owl rise from the ancient spruces and gnarled mountain pine trees. On the “Jungle Trail”, hikers discover the natural phenomena of the Bödmeren spruce forest, one of the most pristine forests in the Alps where humans hardly ever interfered. The lov-ers of folk music will also enjoy a stop at the alpine restaurant Roggenloch, where ländler formations perform every Sunday.www.boedmeren.ch

SATTEL-HOCHSTUCKLI

NATURE’S FORCESStop in your tracks and absorb the voic-es of nature — a 3.6-kilometre adven-ture trail, “der pfad”, beckons you to observe and feel the forces of nature up close. Either take off dowsing on your own, equipped with pendulum and di-vining rod, or join a group led by the Radiesthesia Association Ägerital to go from station to station. The hike itself takes an hour, but those wanting to ex-perience the natural phenomena, better plan for three hours. The revolving gon-dola cableway takes visitors from Sattel to the departure point.www.der-pfad.ch

ILLGAU

LADY BUGSWho will find the seven children of the Lady Bug Family? They are hiding above the mountain village of Illgau. After dis-embarking from the nostalgic cable car at St. Karl, the search begins in a forest playground equipped with barbecue pits and picnic tables. Once on their way, young and old can play a tune at the bell station and, at another playground, dare traverse the ropeway. Lady Bugs painted on the ground guide the visitors through a landscape that seems almost devoid of other human beings.www.seilbahn.illgau.ch

MIND A LITTLE BIT MORE?Whether they are playful, instructive or entertaining, themed trails can add spice to the joy of hiking. They might even tempt a couch potato.

16 HIKING PLUS

ETZEL MOUNTAIN

A FARMER’S LIFEBetween Schindellegi and Einsiedeln, 14 info boards offer insights into the life and chores of a farmer: from animal husbandry to wine-growing, to rural energy production. The educational trail takes hikers past grazing cows and along various woods to the St. Meinrad lookout, his chapel and a restaurant. The trail goes on to the baroque Abbey of Einsiedeln, always worth a visit, and to the Milchmanufaktur Einsiedeln, where you can watch how hay milk is turned into cheeses and yoghurt.www.bauernlehrpfad.ch

RIGI

GLACIERSome 24,000 years ago, the Rigi was surrounded by the Reuss glacier. Traces of its retreat are still visible today on the Seebodenalp above Küssnacht. The loop trail “Gletscherspur” takes the hik-ers back to the Ice Age. Along the route, the typical wooden “Rigi” loungers tempt anyone to have a rest. Not that the 90-minute walk is so long or strenuous that it calls for frequent breaks ... it’s the splendid views that are best taken in on these loungers. Of course, you can al-ways enjoy them from the mountain restaurants Räbalp and Ruodisegg. www.seebodenalp.ch

ARTH

PROTECTIVE FORESTA healthy forest is also a protective for-est. On the Rigi’s northern slopes, for instance, the forest protects the Basel–Chiasso railway line from avalanches and rockfall. On the Via Silva, the cun-ning forest goblin Silvio entertains young and old nature lovers with ques-tions, riddles and an occasional wink. The scenery keeps changing – idyllic trails sheltered by birches, firs and oth-er local trees alternate with steep and rocky terrain. 50 info boards tell the hikers about the protective functions of the forest in the face of natural hazards. www.viasilva.ch

ILLGAU

'70'

'45''55'

'40'

LUCERNEZURICH

ZUG AARAU

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17HIKING PLUS

Traditionell hergestellte Edel-Schokolade made in SchwyzFeinste Schweizer Spitzen-Schokoladen, von der Kakao- bohne bis zur Tafel in Schwyz hergestellt. Besuchen Sie uns im Fabrikladen.

Chocolat noble préparé selon la méthode traditionnelle made in SchwyzChocolats suisses surfins, fabriqués à Schwyz de la fève à la tablette. Visiter notre boutique d’usine.

Traditional-recipe fine chocolate made in SchwyzPremium Swiss chocolate. Made completely in Schwyz, from cocoa bean to finished chocolate bar. Visit our factory shop.

Finissimo cioccolato dal cuore di SvittoCioccolato di primissima qualità prodotto secondo la tradizione svizzera a Svitto, dai semi di cacaofino alla tavoletta. Visitate il nostro spaccio aziendale.

Felchlin FabrikladenGotthardstrasse 11 – 6438 Ibach – Switzerland – T + 41 (0) 41 819 30 79

fabrikladen@felchlin.com – www.felchlin-fabrikladen.com

Fabrikladen_Inserat_188x132mm_Schwyz Tourismus AG_2019_2020.indd 1 11.02.19 14:26

Monday – Thursday 9 am – 8 pmFriday 9 am – 9 pmSaturday 8 am – 6 pm

www.mythen-center.ch

Biggest Regional Marketplace with and other well-known brands

56 shops under 1 roof56 shops under 1 roof

GPS: Mythencenterstrasse 18, 6438 Ibach

Inserat 188x132mm Schwyz Sommermagazin MCS 2019 01 englisch.indd 1 04.03.19 16:20

18

FRONALPSTOCK

STARLIT SKIESRoll out the sleeping bag, lie down and start counting the stars. Outdoor enthusiasts and romantic souls soak in the mountain aura in a panoramic tent with integrated sleeping mats on the summit of the Fron-alpstock. From 1,922 metres above sea level, the sun setting over Lake Lucerne and the luminous sunrise next morning are an outer-world experience. The hearty alpine breakfast at the summit restaurant will go down a treat. www.fronalpstock.ch/hotel

TOO GOOD TO FALL ASLEEP

MERLISCHACHEN

LUXURY VEHICLEYour partner is not one for grand romantic ges-tures? Why not act yourself and get a man’s heart pounding? At the Swiss-Chalet, behind the door of room 276, sits a pearly white Jaguar MK 10 from 1963. Its interior reveals an inte-grated double bed. www.swiss-chalet.ch

MUOTATHAL

HuskiesAdventurous souls are in for a husky treat in Muotathal. In an introducto-ry course they learn about the char-acters of the sociable huskies and prepare for an adventurous night outdoors. After dinner they settle down near the dogs to a comfortable night camp. No need to worry about the lack of entertainment – the husk-ies will bid the guests good night with their customary evening howls.www.erlebniswelt.ch

SATTEL

TepeeJust like the North American Prairie Indians once upon a time – families and groups spend the night in a te-pee in Sattel. They cook their dinner on the campfire in the tent, enjoy the evening gazing into the Central Swiss Alps, and in the morning get acquainted with the inquisitive lla-mas. Tepee holidays on the llama farm of the Betschart Family are bookable from May to September. www.lamahof.ch

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MERLISCHACHEN

The crickets are chirping and the stars are peeking through the glass dome: on the Gehren farm, visitors can spend the night in a yurt and get treated to a hearty farmer’s breakfast next morning. www.gehren.ch

19SLEEPING IN UNUSUAL PLACES

SCHWYZ ON YOUR BACKWhen your stomach growls louder than the birds chirp, then it’s time for a break. With Schwyz products in your backpack, you’ll get to know the region from a delightful new angle.

RIGI

Meadow herb mustardEverybody knows that sausages and mustard go well together. The mead-ow herb mustard is perfect for the alpine cheese of the Rigi. All herbs are grown by the Stiftung für Kultur-bewusstsein und Genuss (Founda-tion for Cultural Awareness and Taste) at 1,550 metres above sea level. Their herbal garden contains more than 450 edible herbs and plants and is open to the public. It’s an ideal spot to visit with the chil-dren. All mustard ingredients are organic and from Switzerland. www.genussundkultur.ch

SCHWYZ

Herrengass speckSpeck, the Swiss version of smoked cured ham, helps to balance the salt levels in a hiker’s body. The Herren-gass speck is mildly salted, refined with a herb mixture, smoked until dark and then gently cooked. Tender in flavour and juicy to eat, it is a treat in any kind of weather and tempera-ture. Available in thin slices or as sealed strips. www.reichmuth-metzg.ch

STEINEN

Schwyz cheeseHiking is even more enjoyable with a slab of Schwyz cheese in your knap-sack. Because you know that your well-earned rest will be tasty – your cheese won the 2018 “Swiss Cheese Award”. The typical Schwyz cheese from the Annen dairy reveals a vari-ety of flavours that together with the wonderful panorama of moun-tains and lakes blend into one de-lightful experience.www.schwyzerkaese.ch

SCHWYZ

Survival toolCompact, flexible and fit for any ad-venture. The Swiss Army Knife of Victorinox has been a loyal compan-ion and a must-have accessory for any knapsack since 1897. Each of the more than 400 models that are man-ufactured in Schwyz nowadays is a jack of all trades and a survival tool – handy to cut bread and cheese for sustenance or to carve a fork for the sausage or to escape an emergency situation just like MacGyver.www.victorinox.com

RIGI

Mountain beer Once upon a time a dragon flew from the Rigi to the Pilatus and on the way dropped a rock. This is the legend behind the “Rigi Gold Drache” – a deep dark top fermented stout with a creamy foam totally natural and unfiltered. The heavily roasted malts lend the dragon stout its distinctive coffee flavour. By the way: the rock can still be seen at the Lucerne Na-ture Museum. www.rigi-bier.ch

20 EN ROUTE

Feeling like people felt in the early days of Switzerland, meeting European wildlife up close or looking behind monastery walls. On school excursions in the Canton of Schwyz, students will explore a study theme in educational venues outside of school. Schwyz offers many historic sites as well as a competence centre for indi-genous animals and landscapes. That’s why the canton is Switzer-land’s largest classroom.

SCHOOL EXCURSIONS

PARTICIPATIONSend your answer with your name, address and phone number to: info@schwyz-tourismus.ch (Mail) orSchwyz Tourismus, Zeughausstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz (postcard)

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: 31 OCTOBERNo correspondence. No legal recourse. No cash payment. The participants’ data will be treated confidentially. The data collected may be used for marketing purposes by Schwyz Tourismus AG and its partners.

RELAXATION ON THE SHORES OF LAKE LUCERNE

WIN A BRIEF SUMMER HOLIDAYTHE BIG QUESTIONWhich British Prime Minister stayed at the Seehotel Waldstätterhof in Brunnen?

A Tony BlairB Margaret ThatcherC Winston Churchill

PRIZE VALUED AT CHF 900 2 nights for 2 persons in a double room with lake views at the Waldstätterhof

rich breakfast buffet 2× four-course menu of your choice for 2 persons

free use of spa and whirlpool facilities boat trip on Lake Lucerne for 2 persons day pass for Axenstein Golf Club

www.waldstaetterhof.ch, phone +41 41 825 06 06

PRIZE:

VALUED AT

CHF 900

SEEHOTEL WALDSTÄTTERHOF IN BRUNNEN The nearly 150-year-old history of the building is reflected in its ambience. While you’re enjoying the amenities of a modern first-class hotel, you are simultaneously taken back in time to the fin de siècle, when Europe’s high society routinely resided in this Grand Hotel.But even if your name is not Winston Churchill or King Alfonso of Spain, you will be treated royally. The Waldstätterhof offers you a dreamy view of Lake Lucerne and is also the ideal starting point for discovery tours — explore the different mountains and Swiss history.

www.groesstesklassenzimmer.ch

21RUBRIKTITELQUIZ 21

BEAVER CREEK RANCH: The Wild West starts in Rothenthurm.

COWBOY AT HEART: Armin Grab also conducts trekking tours.

22 SCHWYZ VALLEY AND SUMMIT TOUR

ARMIN GRAB, HOST OF BEAVER CREEK RANCH

WILD WEST ROTHENTHURM120 kilometres. 6,000 metres of altitude difference. 42 hours of hiking. These are the facts and figures of the Schwyz Valley and Summit Tour. Behind the bare numbers loom exciting encounters. On the leg between the Wildspitz mountain and Mostelberg, it takes just a small detour to start feeling like a cowboy or cowgirl.

It all started with a horse. Armin Grab grew up as a farmer’s son in Rothenthurm, and with a typical Swiss workhorse, the Freiberger. After some restless years touring the world as a member of the Swiss skiing squad and later in Bahrain as an electrician, curiosity drove him to Bern in the mid-1980s, to a western riding championship.There he got acquainted with the American breeds Appaloosa, American Paint Horse and American Quarter Horse. Two years later he bought two Amer-ican Paint Horses in the US and took up western rid-ing. “I was the only one far and wide,” he says, now 61 years old.

WILD WEST TOWN AND SALOONAt night, Armin Grab dreamed of the endless prairies of Montana and Wyoming; during the day, in 1998, he and his wife Trix redeveloped his parents’ erst-while informal barn café into the Beaver Creek Ranch complex, a western-style destination that has be-come hugely popular with hikers and bikers. The horns of a Texas Longhorn decorate the walls of the restaurant, a wagon wheel serves as an arm rest in the Summer Lounge, and Paint Horse Missy greets from the paddock. To describe the ranch as a “west-ern restaurant” would be inadequate. Armin Grab has built a veritable western town backdrop with tent and saloon bar, where families and groups can party in a Wild West atmosphere. On the large playground of the restaurant, kids glide directly into the petting zoo and ride the choo-choo-train to Santa Fe.The grown-ups come to see Armin Grab to learn to ride western-style, and several times a year he also conducts one-day and multi-day treks through the

Rothenthurm upland moor or to the Stoos region – on horseback and dressed as cowboys or cowgirls, naturally.

CAMPFIRE ROMANTICISM AND DREAMSHungry hikers may opt for the rancher’s platter served with a lucky horseshoe, rösti in a cast-iron pan or a piece of meat that comes with an Indian ar-row. Notwithstanding his enthusiasm for many things American, Armin Grab sources the food he serves from local producers: the butcher and baker from the village, the distiller from the neighbouring town. He also personally smokes the meat in his own smoking hut behind the stable. Those who want to finish their hiking for the day at the Beaver Creek Ranch can spend the night at the Studio. “Or on mat-tresses in the stable, complete with horsey smells and neighs,” adds Armin Grab with a grin. He often lights a campfire at night. And once a month, a country music band heats up the scene.The ranch is also home to geese, ducks, pygmy goats, a donkey, cats, two dogs and three horses: Fly, Nanuk and Missy. “The horses know how I feel the minute I walk into the stable,” Armin Grab says. He is also very alert to their moods. One big dream involving horses is yet to come true: Armin Grab would love to parti-ci pate in a cattle drive and help herd thousands of animals across a huge distance.

Beaver Creek Ranch – ideal for western fans and hikers.www.beavercreek.ch

“Western riding has been my thing for decades.”Armin Grab

ROTHEN-THURM

'80'

'40''40'

'30'

LUCERNEZURICH

ZUG ST. GALLEN

SCHWYZ VALLEY AND SUMMIT TOUR

The round trip consists of seven legs to the panoramic Schwyz peaks and through wildly romantic valleys. As-cents can be conquered on foot or by mountain railway, depending on fitness or fancy. The legs can be combined into a flat-rate hiking holiday including accommodation.www.talundgipfeltour.ch

23SCHWYZ VALLEY AND SUMMIT TOUR

RIGI KALTBAD

A BATH STEEPED IN LEGENDJust like earlier visitors did 600 years ago, the guests of the Mineral Bath & Spa of Rigi Kaltbad bathe in the medicinal waters of the Drei-Schwestern-Brunnen (Three-Sisters Spring), which emerges from a crevice in the rocks behind the nearby chapel. Architect Mario Botta developed the pool area into a stunning modern spa world offering pure relaxation. Those who cannot get enough of the exhilarating mountain views may end their hiking day in the outdoor pool. www.mineralbad-rigikaltbad.ch

STOOS

Linger a little longerStill infused with the tranquillity of the mountain world and at peace with yourself after a hiking day, it’s hard to think of returning to the world down there. At the day spa of the Seminar and Wellness Hotel Stoos – also open to non-guests – you are welcome to relax a little longer, 1,300 metres above sea level. www.hotel-stoos.ch

BRUNNEN

REGAINING VIGOURJust taking in the views of Lake Lucerne and the Uri Alps from the spa terrace will restore body and soul. The Waldstätterhof in Brunnen is located right on the water’s edge. No better place to regain one’s strength after a hike than the hotel’s day spa. The combination ticket – evening admission and partial body massage – is perfect for exhausted hikers. www.waldstaetterhof.ch

OBERÄGERI

Swimming or relaxing? The newly opened Ägeribad features various swimming pools, a wellness area, direct access to the lakeside pool, as well as a Kneipp basin and a heated outdoor pool with underwater whirl and massage jets. www.aegeribad.ch

MORSCHACH

Relax like the Romans didThe Morschach plateau is the spec-tacular backdrop to Switzerland’s biggest holiday and leisure resort. At the Swiss Holiday Park, guests dis-cover the rituals of the Roman-Irish bathing culture: enjoying the Ro-man-style baths in comfortably warm and dry air, then entering an invigorating steam bath Irish-style and finally dipping into a saline whirlpool. www.swissholidaypark.ch

WELLNESS FOR TIRED LEGS24 AFTER THE HIKE

STIWCHWORT: Legende

The restaurant of the Swiss-Chalet in Merlischachen on Lake Lucerne intrigues with its rustic yet elegant ambience. Al-though on fine days, the guests prefer the cosy outdoor area of this typical Swiss wooden house from the 17th century. The clientele is very diverse: families return-ing from a walk in the Allmig, the recrea-tional area of the locals; hikers on the Waldstätterweg segment between Küssnacht and Lucerne looking for a rest; or sports people seeking to restore their energy after a hard training session.

HIKERS NEED BREAKSAndreas Rappold advises hikers to stop frequently for a short break and a light snack. “This way the body does not cool off so much and is not overly burdened by the food intake,” he explains. Good snacks to bring along on a hike are dried fruit, nuts or a piece of wholemeal bread with

cheese. And of course, a meal in between is important too. For those stopping at his place, Andreas Rappold recommends the summer salad (see his recipe to the right).Hikers who have finished for the day and love their meat can’t go wrong at the Swiss-Chalet either. “Meat takes centre stage here,” the head chef says. He offers grilled meats, classic dishes like Muotatal calf ’s liver and a selection of meat- or fish-based tartares plus a vegetarian version. “We prepare our dishes with fresh – and wherever possible, regional – products.”www.swiss-chalet.ch

SUMMER SALAD (SERVES 5)

Rucola salad with cherries and cherry dressing, caramelized goat cheese and Muotatal prosciutto.

SALAD400 g rucola (rocket)20 cherries, halved and pitted200 g goat cheese, sliced120 g Muotatal prosciutto, finely slicedA small amount of cane sugar

DRESSING75 cherries, pitted75 g vegetable stock1/4 vanilla bean10 g sugar45 g cherry vinegar12 g white balsamico1 squirt of lemon juice10 g walnuts, lightly roasted1 tsp. thyme, freshly chopped75 g rapeseed oilSalt and pepper

For the dressing, put the cherries, vegetable stock and sugar in a pan. Halve the vanilla bean, scrape out the seeds and add to the pan. Gently cook until the cherries are soft. Remove the vanilla bean. Blend the cherry puree with cherry vinegar, white balsamico, lemon juice, walnuts and thyme. Gradually add the rapeseed oil while continuing to blend. Season with salt and pepper.Caramelize the goat cheese with cane sug-ar. Marinate the rucola with the cherry dressing. Garnish with fresh cherries, goat cheese and prosciutto.

ANDREAS RAPPOLD, HEAD CHEF, SWISS-CHALET MERLISCHACHEN

LIGHT FOOD FOR THE LIGHT-FOOTEDAndreas Rappold knows what hikers love to eat because the Swiss-Chalet is located on the popular “Waldstätter-weg” hiking route. The head chef recommends eating regularly but light.

“Regional and light never fails.”Andreas Rappold

DIRECT FROM THE CHEF: A refreshing salad for hot days.

25SUMMER RECIPE

PETER MATHIS, LOCAL MANAGER OF HIKING TRAILS

ON SAINTLY GROUNDOne stretch of the Via Jacobi (Path of St. James) leads from the Luegeten plateau in Pfäffikon steeply up to the St. Meinrad’s Pass on Etzel mountain. The 75-year-old Peter Mathis maintains this stretch. The Etzel has been a constant part of his life.

ROOT TRAIL: A natural piece of art.

ETZEL – A HIKER’S MOUNTAIN

PETER MATHIS: Regularly controls the trail’s condition.

26

“When I was a child, the whole extended family al-ways took part in the family pilgrimage from Pfäffikon to Einsiedeln,” Peter Mathis recalls. Grown up at the foot of the Etzel, he could share many stories about his “own” mountain. Now that he is retired, he spends even more time on the Etzel slopes. He maintains 15 kilometres of hiking trails in the commune of Freien-bach, and three of those are on Etzel territory. They are not the easiest kilometres – not for him nor for the pilgrims on the Path of St. James nor any other hikers and walkers,On the Luegeten plateau, at an altitude of 595 metres, the hikers leave the panoramic views of Lake Zurich, Ufnau island, the Alps of Glarus and the parish church of St. Meinrad in Pfäffikon behind. They are now climbing a steep flight of natural steps and later embark on the root trail. Here the root system is forming a wild and densely woven pattern across the forest ground. During periods of heavy rain, Peter Mathis needs to control this part of the trail particu-larly often. He builds wooden weirs to prevent the path from being washed away. It’s a measure that serves the hikers well but is not welcome among bik-ers. That, too, is part of the job for Peter Mathis – to find a balance between hiker and biker needs.

PILGRIMS, HIKERS, FAMILIESUntil a few years ago, Peter Mathis used to jog up the Etzel every other evening. Today, he takes it easier. “I love to approach people and ask them where they're coming from,” he says. Sooner or later he also wants to know how they judge the trail and if they are hap-py with the markings and signposts, which he regu-

larly repaints and sometimes also needs to point back into the right direction. Halfway up, a clearance emerges with a hiking shelter. The shelter logbook contains many contributions from pilgrims or fami-lies who express their appreciation that Peter Mathis maintains the open fireplace and replaces the fire-wood.He has been a local manager of trails on behalf of the Association of Schwyz Hiking Trails and the com-mune of Freienbach for 10 years now, one of 34 local managers in the Canton of Schwyz. He still remem-bers how the hiking trail from the Luegeten to the St. Meinrad’s Pass was built in the 1970s. He was then doing civil defence service and was part of the unit that built the trail.

TRACING THE STEPS OF ST. MEINRADAfter about 90 minutes of uphill hiking, the forest ends. In front lies another steep slope, and high above beckons the Chapel of St. Meinrad. Lore has it that St. Meinrad lived there as a hermit around 830, be-fore moving on to what is now the site of the Chapel of our Lady in the Abbey of Einsiedeln. The top of the pass, 950 metres above sea level, marks the end of the stretch of the Via Jacobi that Peter Mathis maintains. He has never hiked on other stretches outside the canton. He experiences the Via Jacobi in his own way: by listening to pilgrims from around the world.

STICHWORT: Legende xxx xxx

PANORAMA: After traversing the forest, behind the chapel of St. Meinrad, the view opens to reveal the mountains.

“I enjoy talking to people.”Peter Mathis

ETZEL – A HIKER’S MOUNTAIN

PFÄFFIKON

'45'

'30''40'

'30'

ZURICHBADEN

ZUG WINTERTHUR

The Via Jacobi continues on to Einsiedeln, where St. Meinrad again looms large. A guided tour of the Abbey sheds more light on his life. www.eyz.swiss

27

THE OLD SCHWYZ WAYIn the 14th century, the people of Ybrig used what is now known as “Alter Schwyz-erweg” to drive their cattle to the market in Schwyz. Because the track led across moors, it was built as a wooden pathway. In the 21st century, it was comprehensive-ly renovated and once again features a timber trail. An exhibition at the Forum of Swiss History in Schwyz tells more about trade routes and mule drivers.

MEDIUMRoute 13.5 kmDuration 4 h 10 minAscent 351 mDescent 921 m

EASYRoute 2.9 kmDuration 55 minAscent 113 mDescent 163 m

HOCH-YBRIG RIDGEWAYIt doesn’t take a lot of effort to gain a pan-oramic view of the impressive peaks of Schwyz, Uri and Glarus. The chair lifts will do the ascending and descending, and the path along the ridge is so well devel-oped that the whole family can enjoy a fabulous mountain experience. Those who deem a return ride on the chair lift boring, can use the Sternensauser zip line for some adrenaline kick and to get back to the Sternen valley station.

NOT TO BE MISSED

A hike through the landscapes of Schwyz is best organized with the Schwyz

Hiking Trails app. The following routes are highly recommendable.

Download the app: www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/wanderapp

RIGI GOETHE TRAILIn 1775, on his first travel to Switzerland, the great German writer Johann Wolf-gang von Goethe hiked from Romiti via Rigi Klösterli to Rigi Kulm. Why not trace his steps across alpine meadows and through mixed woodlands up to lofty heights? Conquering the 600 metres of altitude difference is well worth it – the 360-degree view on Rigi Kulm is glorious.

MEDIUMRoute 5.9 kmDuration 3 hAscent 699 mDescent 117 m

SATTELEGG – CHLI AUBRIGThose craving the tranquillity of nature far from mountain railways should set out to see the world from Chli Aubrig. The summit becomes visible shortly after the start. It’s a leisurely hike up to the top at 1,642 metres above sea level, and the pan-oramic views are stunning. The Wildegg restaurant halfway back down caters to the hungry and thirsty.

MEDIUMRoute 8.8 kmDuration 3 h 5 minAscent 461 mDescent 460 m

28 HIKING TIPS

VIA JACOBIOn the Path of St. James between Rapper-swil and Einsiedeln, one cannot but notice the presence of St. Meinrad. He is said to have lived on St. Meinrad’s Pass from 828 until he went on to Einsiedeln in 835. Where he once established his final her-mitage in the midst of dense woods, the Chapel of our Lady now stands – in the Abbey of Einsiedeln. The Abbey offers ac-commodation to Via Jacobi pilgrims.

MEDIUMRoute 17 kmDuration 5 hAscent 679 mDescent 206 m

SILBEREN KARST TRACKAs the sound of the cow bells from the al-pine dairy at the top of the Pragel pass fades away in the distance, the Silberen karst fields come into view. It means treading carefully because the heavily jag-ged terrain of the legendary area requires full attention. The solitude, the views and this unique karst landscape seem to be from another world.

DIFFICULTRoute 13.8 kmDuration 5 h 20 minAscent 865 mDescent 865 m

MEDIUMRoute 5.7 kmDuration 2 hAscent 221 mDescent 222 m

MORSCHACH PANORAMIC TRAIL “Wandern ist doof ” (Hiking is stupid) is the name of novel by Blanca Imboden from Ibach, Schwyz. The author, howev-er, has often hiked along the Morschach Panoramic Trail. Taking this trail is a beautiful way of getting to know Morschach and its surrounding nature, and to understand why Conny, the novel’s heroine, had to come here to discover her love for hiking and the Alps.

RIGI RIDGE HIKEThe Urmiberg cable car handles the steep-est part of the ascent. Lake Lucerne be-comes smaller and smaller with each gain of altitude, and the land opens wide. The actual hike leads across the ridge of the Rigi massif to Scheidegg and on to Kalt-bad. Resting at the mountain restaurant Rigi Burggeist is advisable; it also has a large playground. The views along the route sometimes reveal four lakes at the same time. The most spectacular view of Lake Lucerne emerges from the rock path that was carved into the vertically drop-ping face.

DIFFICULT Route 13.5 kmDuration 5 hAscent 848 mDescent 536 m

29HIKING TIPS

SOUTHERN LAKE LUCERNE

... OF THE SWISS CONFEDERATIONOn the occasion of its 700th anniversary, in 1991, Switzerland created the 35-kilometre Swiss Path in Central Switzerland. All Swiss cantons could design a part of it proportionally to their population (5 mil-limetres per person). The hike starts with the three original cantons, on the Rütli meadow. The trail winds around the southernmost part of Lake Lucerne and ends on the lakeside promenade in Brunnen. www.weg-der-schweiz.ch

SCHWYZ

... of the evil HapsburgsWhere does the story of the “evil Hapsburg bailiffs” come from? And what of it is actually documented? The answers can be found at the Museum of the Swiss Charters in Schwyz, which presents not just the story of the ancient Swiss Confeder-ation but also discusses the many myths that surround it. The visit can be combined with a circular walk in Schwyz along info boards that cele-brate the historic capital of the Can-ton of Schwyz.www.bundesbrief.ch

MORGARTEN

... OF LANDAMMANN WERNER STAUFFACHEROn the Morgarten Trail hikers encounter various his-torical figures linked to the Battle of Morgarten. At seven stations they hear Duke Leopold, court jester Kuoni von Stocken and Landammann Werner Stauf-facher, among others, relate the chain of events that led to the battle in 1315 from their perspective. If you start at the monument in Morgarten, you first hear the Hapsburg version; if you start in Sattel, the Schwyz version. www.morgarten.ch

KÜSSNACHT

... OF WILLIAM TELLThe historic walk from Immensee to Küssnacht evokes the legend of William Tell. It starts with the climax: the Hohle Gasse, where Tell felled Gessler, the bailiff. The Information Pavilion tells the story of the hero and how it reverber-ates to this day. The trail then leads to the ruins of Gesslerburg, with Küssnacht at your feet. In Küssnacht itself, hikers can cool off at the lido of Lake Lucerne. www.hohlgassland.ch

EINSIEDELN

... of JesusThe Way of the Cross in Einsiedeln is not just for the pious. It can be fol-lowed for a leisurely walk up to the Meinradsberg. But of course, the 12 stations, all created by Einsiedeln artist Alois Peyer, also inspire wor-ship or meditation. The path starts at the southern end of the Abbey’s front, follows the Johannis creek and climbs up to the impressive sculp-ture of a crucifixion group. From up there, one surveys the Abbey almost from a bird’s-eye view. www.eyz.swiss

TRACING THE STEPS …

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30 COMBINING HISTORY AND HIKING

GUT BERATEN, SCHWYZER ART.Wir leben Nähe. Die Schwyzer Kantonalbank ist eng mit dem Kanton Schwyz verbunden – und mit seinen Einwohnern. Darum sitzen wir mit unseren Kunden im gleichen Boot, wenn es um ihre finanziellen An liegen geht. Vom einfachen Sparen über Hypothekarkredit modelle bis zu individuellen Finanzierungs- und Vorsorgeplänen: Wir sind für Sie da.

www.szkb.ch

PERSÖNLYCH

31

DISCOVER THE NATIVE REGION OF THE WORLD FAMOUS ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE

Swiss Knife Valley Visitor Center | Victorinox Store & Museum Brunnen, Bahnhofstrasse 3 | +41 41 820 60 10www.swissknifevalley.ch

SHOP ONLINE AT VICTORINOX.COM

MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE | ESTABLISHED 1884 MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE | ESTABLISHED 1884

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