If you’re looking for a day trip from Zurich with a hike that delivers breathtaking views, serene nature, and a touch of history, then the trail from Pfäffikon SZ to Rapperswil SG should be at the top of your list.
This easy and scenic route takes you across the historic wooden bridge that seemingly lets you walk on water, offering stunning lake views, lush meadows, and a charming medieval town as the perfect reward at the end of your walk. Plus, it only takes about 1.5 hours—so you’ll have plenty of time to explore Rapperswil afterward.
Setting Off from Pfäffikon SZ
The journey begins at the Pfäffikon SZ train station, which is easily reachable by S-Bahn from Zurich—just be sure to head to Pfäffikon SZ in the canton of Schwyz, not Pfäffikon ZH, which, while also a lovely destination, is located at a different lake in the Zurich highlands!
From the station, a well-maintained gravel path gently winds through the peaceful countryside. Almost immediately, you pass the Frauenwinkel Nature Reserve, the largest and most valuable conservation area on Lake Zurich. It’s home to rare reed birds, and thanks to wooden observation screens with small openings, you can peek through and watch these feathered residents without disturbing them. If you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, this is your moment!
The path continues along the shoreline, flanked by wide-open meadows and shimmering waters. The lake’s calm surface mirrors the sky, and you can already feel the tranquility settling in. The air is fresh, and depending on the season, wildflowers may be blooming along the way.
Take a Break in Hurden
Soon, you’ll reach Hurden, a small lakeside village where you’ll find a beautifully designed rest area. This is a great spot to take a break, soak in the view, or even dip your feet in the lake if the weather allows. But don’t linger too long—because the next part of the trail is where things get truly magical!
A Scenic Stroll Over Lake Zurich: The Wooden Bridge to Rapperswil
From Hurden, you step onto a historic wooden footbridge that spans 841 meters across the lake. It feels like you’re walking on water, with stunning panoramic views of the Schwyzer Voralpen, the Etzel, and the Bachtel mountains surrounding you. Below, countless waterbirds float lazily, completely unbothered by the steady flow of walkers, joggers, and families passing by.
This bridge, inaugurated in 2001, is actually a modern reconstruction of an ancient medieval crossing, once an essential part of the Jakobsweg (Camino de Santiago) pilgrimage route. As you stroll across, you’re treading the same path that countless travelers have taken for centuries—pretty cool, right?
Welcome to Rapperswil: The City of Roses
As you step off the bridge, you’re greeted by Rapperswil, a picturesque lakeside town known for its medieval charm and, of course, its stunning roses. The town is dotted with parks, historic buildings, and a lively waterfront promenade lined with inviting restaurants and cafés.
One of the best ways to get a feel for Rapperswil is to take a short but rewarding hike up to Rapperswil Castle, which was built towards the end of the 12th century and subsequently renovated on a number of occasions. The path winds through quaint vineyards before leading you to the castle grounds.
From up here, you get a breathtaking view of Lake Zurich, the small Lützelau Island, and the surrounding peaks. It’s the perfect spot for a few photos before heading back down into town.
If you love a good story (or several), then visit the castle museum. This isn’t just your average history lesson—it’s a lively, entertaining journey through more than 700 years of castle intrigue, packed with fascinating tales of the Habsburgs, Polish exiles, and the many events that shaped the fortress over the centuries.
The self-guided tour takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and leads you through the castle’s most impressive spots, from the battlements and the Powder Tower to the majestic halls of the Palas. And don’t worry—most of the exhibition is wheelchair accessible, except for the Gügelerturm.
Tickets are reasonably priced, with adult admission at CHF 14, kids (6–16) at CHF 6, and discounted rates for students, apprentices, and retirees at CHF 9. Families can also snag a deal: CHF 20 for one adult with two kids or CHF 34 for a family of up to five.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM—just note that it’s closed on November 1st and from December 24th to 26th.
A particular highlight for children is without doubt the north flank of the castle hill, where fallow deer have lived since 1871 as a reminder of the legend surrounding the founding of the town. Legend has it that Rapperswil owes its very existence to an act of kindness—and a rather grateful deer.
One early morning, the Lord of Rapperswil set out on a hunting trip, crossing the lake from Altendorf SZ with his wife and a group of servants. As soon as they reached the shore, his hunting dogs picked up a scent and eagerly pursued a hind up the rocky ridge. The frightened animal sought refuge in a cave, and when the hunters arrived, they discovered not only the hind but also her two young calves nestled beside her. Moved by the sight, the nobleman’s wife pleaded with her husband to spare the creature’s life. He relented, and the grateful hind later returned, resting her head in the lady’s lap as if to offer her thanks.
Taking this as a sign from above, the lord decided to build a castle atop the very ridge where the deer had found shelter. And at its southern slope? A small town—Rapperswil—was born. Today, the fallow deer in the castle’s enclosure serve as a living tribute to this heartwarming tale, a reminder of the town’s legendary beginnings.
Immediately below the deer park are various playground apparatus, such as a climbing wall and a talk tube, where children can play and let off steam.
What to Do in Rapperswil
Once you’ve descended into the heart of Rapperswil, there’s plenty to explore:
- Stroll through the Old Town, where cobbled streets and medieval buildings make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
- Visit the Rose Gardens, which are home to over 15,000 roses blooming in vibrant colors during the warmer months.
- Relax at the lakeside promenade, where swans glide gracefully across the water and inviting restaurants tempt you with delicious fish dishes.
- Check out the Knie’s Children’s Zoo, a fun attraction especially if you’re traveling with kids.
- Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich, perhaps even hopping aboard the historic steamship “Stadt Rapperswil.”
Getting Back to Zurich
When you’re ready to head home, Rapperswil is well connected by train (S5, S7, and S15 to Zurich), or you can take a more scenic route by boat, soaking in the last moments of your adventure from the deck.
Final Thoughts
This hike is the perfect combination of nature, history, and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely day trip from Zurich, the trail from Pfäffikon to Rapperswil has something for everyone. So lace up your shoes, charge your camera, and set out for a day of unforgettable views and lakeside charm!
Have you done this hike before? Let me know your favorite part in the comments below!
