Day Trip: Einsiedeln
Some Impressions of Einsiedeln:
Einsiedeln lies on Lake Sihl and is a nature oasis not far from Zurich.
The region is a paradise for sports of all kinds.
The Benedictine abbey is the landmark of Einsiedeln.
The abbey is one of the most important baroque buildings in Switzerland.
Winter sports enthusiasts love the nearby Hoch-Ybrig ski area.
The region is often fog-free and a mecca for winter hiking and cross-country skiing.
Paths to Happiness
It is well worthwhile hiking to Einsiedeln along a section of the Way of St. James. From Rapperswil, the path first leads over a long boardwalk across Lake Zurich to Pfäffikon. Here, the ascent to the Etzel Pass and St. Meinrad Chapel begins. Be sure to plan for a short detour on the Etzel in order to enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. After reaching the top of the pass, the route continues over gently undulating terrain to Einsiedeln. The hike takes about 5 hours in total.
From Rapperswil to Einsiedeln:
- Length: 17 kilometers (11 miles)
- Duration: 5 hours
- Level of difficulty: medium
A Real Crowd-Puller
People who go to Einsiedeln inevitably visit the famous Einsiedeln Abbey. Besides the Abbey Tour, guided tours of the magnificent Abbey Library or the Marstall stables open up new insights into the life of the Benedictine monks who live here. Those who prefer to explore on their own can follow the Monkstrail, an adventurous scavenger hunt within the age-old abbey walls.
The Fashion Icon
The Black Madonna is not only a popular shrine in the Abbey, but also a real fashion icon: depending on the liturgical calendar and the feast day, a monk dresses her in one of her more than 37 beautifully embroidered garments.
For Sports Lovers
Einsiedeln is a mecca for summer and winter sports enthusiasts. Whether skiing, cross-country skiing or ice skating, hiking, climbing, mountain biking or water sports: everything is possible in the wonderful natural landscape around Lake Sihl.
Summer Sports
- Hiking, climbing, and mountain biking in the Mythen region
- Hiking, mountain biking and ziplining in Hoch Ybrig
Winter Sports
- Cross-country skiing around Einsiedeln
- Ice skating next to the Abbey
- Winter sports in Hoch-Ybrig or in the Mythen region
At Lofty Heights
If you are looking for a real adrenaline kick, the ski jumps in Einsiedeln are the place to be. On offer are guided tours, test jumps, airboarding, or facade climbing, as well as private brunches or fondue dinners in the tower of the Andreas Küttel Ski Jump. At a lofty height of 117 meters (384ft).
