Weg der Schweiz
Overview
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Distance 9 km
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Duration 3 h
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Ascent 520 m
Intro
A short but perspiration-producing stage. Interesting departure and destination points and thought-provoking engravings on stones along the way, transforming the steep climb into a path of contemplation.
Description
In 1291, representatives of the original cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden are said to have founded the Swiss Confederation on the famous green Rütli Meadow. This is located on the steep wooded hillside that rises up directly from Lake Uri. The Swiss Path also begins on the Rütli. The 35-kilometre cultural trail was a gift from the 26 cantons to the people of Switzerland, marking the anniversary of the Swiss Confederation in 1991. With a distance of five millimetres per person, each canton was allowed to design its own section of the trail.
The historical site can only be reached on foot or by boat. At the Schwurplatz and at the Rütlihaus, built in 1868, you have a wonderful view of the lake and mountains. It then zigzags up the wooded hillside. As you continue upwards, the lake, shimmering through the foliage, becomes more and more distant. The trail is made safe with the installation of railings at particularly steep parts of the hillside.
Once you have arrived in the village of Seelisberg following the climb, you can relax on benches and enjoy the splendid view of the Fronalpstock and the imposing peaks of the Grosser and Kleiner Mythen. The path is now on the flat for a short stretch. Passing the Maria Sonnenberg chapel, you arrive at the impressive Grandhotel Sonnenberg, which has been in use as a meditation centre for several decades.
The trail leads into the next forest and up to the Marienhöhe, with its impressive bird’s-eye view of the Rütli Meadow. It continues across pastures and past wetland and the two lakes, Wijer and Seeli. You reach the highest point of the stage shortly before Beroldingen Castle. You cross the hillside on attractive trails with a fantastic view. Railings are in place as a precaution due to the steep terrain.
The last part of the trail consists of an elevation drop of 400 metres over a distance of three kilometres, and runs back to the shore of the lake. An old, partially surfaced mule track with more than 960 steps leads to Bauen. Most of the residential buildings and restaurants here are built in the style of traditional central Swiss farmhouses, with their gables facing towards the lake. Lush gardens with Mediterranean vegetation, narrow alleyways, terracing walls and small squares invite you to linger awhile.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Seelisberg (Rütli)
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|---|---|
| Destination |
Bauen
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| Direction |
One way
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| Altitude (meter above sea level) |
700 m
|
| Ascent |
520 m
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| Descent |
520 m
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| Distance |
9 km
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| Duration |
3 h
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| Duration back |
3 h
|
| Technical requirements |
Easy
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| Physical requirements |
Medium
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| Season |
March - October
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| Theme |
With panoramic view
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Quick Facts
Route number
