A "chapel hamlet" between lake and mountain - Kehrsiten
Overview
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Intro
The hamlet of Kehrsiten lies directly by Lake Lucerne at the foot of the Bürgenstock. Once a farming community and with a magnificent stock of fruit trees, Kehrsiten is now a popular day-trip destination and stopping point on the journey up the Bürgenstock.
Viewed from the water, the hamlet – which occupies a narrow lakeside strip – offers a stunning tableau, with its whitewashed chapel set against the imposing backdrop of the Bürgenstock. The slender chapel, with its semicircular choir and corbie-steps, was built in 1801 after an older one had been burnt down together with the rest of Kehrsiten in 1799 during the Napoleonic wars. It is flanked on either side by a row of farmhouses, their timber burned brown by the sun, standing at regular intervals along the slope. Other historic structures include a schoolhouse built around 1900 and a grand country mansion, now a restaurant.
The abundant fruit trees which dot the steep meadows and flourish in the mild lakeside climate, are another dominant feature. They are also the origin of the hamlet's name, which is derived from the dialect word for "cherry tree" – "Kirschete". For a long time, dairy farming and fruit-growing were the main sources of income for the population of the village, which, prior to construction of the road to Stansstad in 1877, could only easily be reached by water. The advent of steamboat navigation in the nineteenth century and the construction of the Bürgenstock Funicular in 1889 made the area popular among day-trippers – which it still is today. With a population of only 300 or so, the hamlet nonetheless boasts an impressive three restaurants.
Trip tip
Kehrsiten can be reached by boat, via the Bürgenstock Funicular or on foot or by bike. The well-preserved hamlet offers insights into history plus captivating lake views and three eateries. The chapel is also well worth a visit.
ISOS
ISOS is the Federal Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites of national importance. The inventory is maintained by the Federal Office of Culture (FOC) and lists the most significant settlements in Switzerland. Today, some 1,200 places are included in the inventory, from hamlets right through to cities. The inventory provides information on the development and identity of the settlements listed in it, thereby contributing to the preservation of architectural diversity in Switzerland and promoting both sustainable planning and a high-quality Baukultur.
