Arth on Lake Zug

Arth lies at the southern end of Lake Zug and at the foot of Mount Rigi. Walking and hiking trails run along the lake and up the mountain. The municipality also includes Oberarth and Goldau; its landscape encompasses the lake, hills and wooded areas. When planning your stay, you can start by considering whether you are particularly interested in trails, local history or the lakeside landscape.

Between Lake Zug, Mount Rigi and the Cherry Orchard

Arth offers different options for walks and hikes. The Arth–Dürrenboden–Gnipen–Wildspitz route is designated as a hiking trail. Check trail conditions and markings before setting out. Another option is a hike through the Arther Kirschgarten (Arth Cherry Orchard), which takes about an hour and a half of walking time. The Old Pilgrim’s Way, also known as the Way of St. James, is one stop along this hike.

The cherry orchard offers different experiences in different seasons. The hike is particularly appealing during the blossom season, from mid-April to early May; the exact timing varies from year to year. It is also described as particularly appealing during the cherry harvest, from early July to early August, although harvest times can also shift from year to year. If you are planning your trip around either of these periods, it is advisable to check current trail conditions.

Arth also has an 18-hole mini-golf course. Operating conditions may vary depending on the weather. Elsewhere in the municipality, historic buildings and the wildlife park in Goldau offer interesting insights. These different points of interest can help you plan a day around walks, a hike or other experiences in the municipality.

History and Buildings

Arth’s documented history dates back to the 11th century. Fishing, farming and shipping historically shaped the village. Individual buildings also tell the story of different periods: St. George’s Chapel has Carolingian origins. Inside is a painting depicting the village fire of 1719. The present-day Baroque parish church was built in 1696.

The monastery church was once the parish church of the free valley people of Arth and was probably built in the second half of the 9th century. Since 1996, the monastery has been the spiritual center of the Syrian Orthodox Christians in Switzerland. If you are planning a visit because of the monastery’s present-day role, check visiting options in advance. The Letzimauer is considered the best-preserved fortification wall of its kind in the whole of Central Switzerland and is classified as a cultural property of national importance. Together, the chapel, churches and wall offer a tangible insight into Arth’s religious and architectural history.

Farms and Regional Produce

Farming also offers ways to enrich your stay. At Gerzelen, a private distillery produces various spirits from fruit grown there. If you are interested in a tasting, you can ask about it; it is best to confirm availability in advance. Farm tours at Gantlihof are available on request. If arranged in advance, coffee and homemade cherry cream cake are served to groups. The request requirements are important: tours and refreshments are not services you should plan on without prior arrangements.

Planning Excursions and Finding a Hotel

The excursion “From Zug to Rigi – Queen of the Mountains” includes a boat trip from Zug station’s landing stage to Arth am See, followed by a bus ride from Arth am See to Arth-Goldau station. As timetables and ticket conditions are subject to change, check them before your trip. This lets you include the excursion in your plans without confusing it with local hikes or sightseeing.

If you are looking for a hotel in Arth, the exact place name in each listing can help you find your way: the municipality also includes Oberarth and Goldau. Tailor your search to the aspects of the destination that matter for your stay—such as the trails along Lake Zug, the hike through the cherry orchard or the historic buildings. Check the specific listing details to make sure they suit your plans.

Discover more destinations: Kulm, Goldau, Rickenbach bei Schwyz, Sattel, Seewen, Schwyz, Rothenthurm, Riemenstalden.

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