Einsiedeln-Ybrig-Zürichsee
The Einsiedeln-Ybrig-Zürichsee region lies in central Switzerland, in the canton of Schwyz, where the pre-Alps meet the shores of the upper Lake Zurich. It is a largely rural area that combines the historic pilgrimage town of Einsiedeln with the mountain landscapes of the Ybrig and the lakeside towns of the March and Höfe districts. The region is shaped by water, with the Sihlsee reservoir, the Wägitalersee and the upper Lake Zurich defining much of its character, alongside rivers and moorland. Einsiedeln, with its famous monastery, forms the cultural and historical heart of the region, while the surrounding countryside offers extensive nature, forests and viewpoints. There are no large cities here; instead, small towns and villages such as Pfäffikon, Lachen and Rapperswil line the lake. The region is known for its pilgrimage heritage, local traditions and a rich calendar of festivals, and it serves as a gateway between the Zurich conurbation and the Alpine foothills.
Summer activities
In summer the region is an outdoor playground where the pre-Alps meet the lakes. Hiking ranges from easy lakeside paths around the Sihlsee to demanding ridge walks in the Ybrig and the ascent of the Grosser Mythen from Brunni-Alpthal. Mountain bikers and road cyclists find varied trails, bike parks and pumptracks, while the Sihlsee, Wägitalersee and upper Lake Zurich offer swimming, stand-up paddling, sailing, wind- and kitesurfing, boat rentals and fishing. Six lakeside baths and numerous barbecue spots by the water round off the warm-season offer.
Winter activities
Winter turns the region into a varied winter-sports destination. Skiers and snowboarders choose between the Hoch-Ybrig ski area and the family-friendly Brunni-Alpthal resort at the foot of the Mythen, complemented by smaller lifts at the Ibergeregg, Sattelegg and Oberiberg. Cross-country skiers enjoy several classic and skating trails, including the Schwedentritt near Einsiedeln and the Finnenloipe Rothenthurm. Sledging runs, night sledging, snowshoe trails and winter hiking routes complete the offer, along with public ice rinks around the lake.
Culture and entertainment
Culture and tradition are deeply rooted in the region, centred on the Benedictine monastery of Einsiedeln, one of Europe's most important Marian pilgrimage sites. The monastery, its church and library, along with a rich programme of guided tours, organ concerts and religious celebrations such as the Engelweihe, shape the cultural life. A lively calendar of folk festivals, including the Einsiedeln Chilbi, Fasnacht carnival and traditional markets, is complemented by museums and the Vögele Kultur Zentrum in Pfäffikon, which stages themed exhibitions on socially relevant topics.
