This is Einsiedeln
Einsiedeln is located in Central Switzerland near Lake Sihl. The town is the most visited pilgrimage site in Switzerland thanks to the
Einsiedeln Abbey and the Black Madonna, and it is a popular starting point for hiking, biking,
cross-country skiing, or skiing in the
Hoch-Ybrig area.
Discover Einsiedeln
During your walk through Einsiedeln, you will cross seven squares with information panels revealing interesting facts about the history of this pilgrimage site. Stop at the gingerbread museum and try the "Schafbock," a pilgrim’s pastry made of honey dough. Or visit the show dairy at the Milk Manufactory. The highlight is undoubtedly the beautiful monastery square with the Marian fountain, where some pilgrims drink a sip of water from all 14 fountain spouts.
Einsiedeln Abbey
The
Abbey is Einsiedeln’s landmark and one of the most important Baroque buildings in Switzerland. The monastery complex includes a nursery, a winery, stables, a monastery shop, and of course the Baroque monastery church. Be enchanted by the figure of the Black Madonna in the Chapel of Grace, who wears one of her more than 20 splendid robes depending on the calendar. During a
monastery tour, you immerse yourself in the monks’ life and take a look inside the abbey library.
Einsiedeln Plateau
Einsiedeln lies on a picturesque plateau at almost 900 meters, inviting you to enjoy outdoor activities. The nearby Sihlsee, the largest reservoir in Switzerland, offers relaxation and many water sports opportunities. Hiking trails lead you around the lake and to peaks with fantastic views. In winter, you can go
cross-country skiing above the sea of fog or skate laps on the ice rink next to the monastery.
Around Einsiedeln
Not far from Einsiedeln are the popular ski and hiking areas
Hoch-Ybrig and the
Mythen region. In about half an hour, you can reach the towns of
Zug or
Zurich with their eponymous lakes. Or follow in the footsteps of pilgrims by hiking on a stage of the Way of St. James from
Rapperswil-Jona on
Lake Zurich to Einsiedeln.
Experience Einsiedeln for less
As an overnight guest, you benefit from discounts on mountain railways, museums, and excursions in the canton of Schwyz and on
Lake Lucerne with the
Schwyz Guest Card.
