Bubikon: Cultural History and Nature in the Zurich Oberland

Bubikon is a municipality in the Hinwil district of the canton of Zurich, in the Zurich Oberland. Points of interest range from the historic Ritterhaus and church to Lake Egelsee, the drumlin landscape, and cycling and golf opportunities. If you are looking for a hotel in Bubikon, these different attractions can shape your choice of stay: history is especially prominent at the Ritterhaus and the church, nature at Lake Egelsee and in the drumlin landscape, and active outings on the Herzroute or at the golf course.

Cultural history at the Ritterhaus and the church

The Ritterhaus Bubikon is one of the best-preserved commanderies of the Order of St John, also known as the Knights of Malta, in Europe. The permanent exhibition provides information about the history of the Order of St John and the history of the building; individual displays may change. Around 220 artefacts have been on display at the Ritterhaus since 1947. Public guided tours are held regularly; check the dates before your visit.

The period herb garden at the Ritterhaus is divided into four historical zones: Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Early Modern Period and the present day. Guided tours of the garden explore the cultural history of herbs and follow the museum programme. Bubikon church also offers a glimpse into different historical periods: its foundations date back to the 12th century, and the Romanesque chapel from 1192 is the oldest part of the historic site. The municipality’s coat of arms today matches the coat of arms used by the Bubikon commandery until 1527.

Nature at Lake Egelsee and in the drumlin landscape

Lake Egelsee is a moorland lake surrounded by protected natural areas. The Bubikon nature trail starts at the Egelsee swimming area; its eight themed information boards cover the flora, fauna, landscape history and land use around the lake. The swimming area has a beach volleyball court, a table tennis table and fitness equipment. The Egelsee lido is open from 1 May to 30 September; check these seasonal opening dates before your trip.

The Zurich Oberland Drumlin Landscape nature reserve also includes Bubikon and has eight information boards. Around 40 dragonfly species occur in the Zurich Oberland; its wet meadows and moorlands provide habitats for many orchids, butterflies and birds. The Lützelsee moorland is a separate area, designated a moorland of national importance in 1996. Adjacent parts of the landscape lie within the municipalities of Bubikon, Gossau, Grüningen, Hombrechtikon and Stäfa.

Cycling, golf and farm experiences

Swiss Golf Bubikon has a challenging 9-hole course that offers a test for players of all skill levels. Numerous water hazards and bunkers call for tactical play; the course offers views of the Alps and Bachtel. The demands of a round of golf differ considerably from the themes of the nature trail: here, course design and tactical decisions during play take centre stage.

The Zurich Oberland section of the Herzroute runs from Rapperswil through Bubikon to Wattwil. It follows the signposted Veloland route 99 and is suitable for cycling on a regular bike or an e-bike. Check current route conditions and any diversions before setting out.

Farm experiences also add to the range of possible outings. Brachland farm in Bubikon offers guided tours, tastings and special events; check the dates before visiting. The farm shop at Biohof Platte sells fresh vegetables, fruit, cider, grain and flour from its own fields in Bubikon every day. Check the farm’s details before visiting the shop.

Getting your bearings during your stay

The Ritterhaus is a five-minute walk from Bubikon railway station, or you can take a bus to the “Ritterhaus” stop. Check connections before travelling. This gives you a practical point of reference if the Ritterhaus is one of the places you plan to visit during your stay.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Wolfhausen, Hinwil, Gossau, Bäretswil, Wald, Wetzikon, Dürnten, Grüningen.

Back to the main travel overview: Hinwil.