Glarus

This is Glarus

The municipality of Glarus lies in Eastern Switzerland on the Linth River. The smallest cantonal capital in Switzerland is a popular travel destination thanks to its proximity to Zurich, its industrial history, and its surrounding mountain landscapes.

Discover Glarus

Your stroll through Glarus takes you past spacious squares with buildings from various eras. The town church against the backdrop of the Glärnisch stands out, as does the Art Museum in the Volksgarten or the train station building with the Glarnerland Nature Center. On Zaunplatz, the annual Landsgemeinde takes place, where direct democracy can be experienced. A short hike up to the castle chapel is worthwhile: from there you can see the geometric street grid — a sign of the city’s reconstruction after the fire of 1861. Round off your sightseeing at the market hall with a café and Glarus specialties.

The Glarus Alps

The mountains around Glarus are perfect for hiking, for example through the wild and romantic Löntschtobel to the beautiful Lake Klöntal. Or visit the Lochsite rock wall near Schwanden, where you can see how plate tectonics shaped the Alps: contrary to logic, the oldest rock lies above the younger layers. At the end of the Sernf Valley rises the UNESCO Tectonic Arena with the famous Martinsloch.

The industrial history of Glarus

In the 19th century, Glarus experienced a huge boom with the rise of the textile industry, which in the 20th century developed into a variety of industrial sectors. On the Industrial Trail from Elm to Ziegelbrücke, discover the importance of Glarus as an industrial location. The hiking and cycling trail leads past factory buildings, power stations, and canal systems. Information panels along the way explain the special features of these constructions.

Around Glarus

Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Walen with its striking Churfirsten. Idyllic too is the circular hike around Lake Obersee near Näfels. The car-free village of Braunwald on the most beautiful sun terrace of the Glarus Alps is perfect for slowing down. And at the end of the valley, the trail passes the Berglistüber waterfall on the way up to the Klausen Pass towards Uri.

Experience Glarus for less

Starting from one overnight stay, you receive the GlarnerlandPass. With it, you can travel free of charge by train and bus throughout the entire Glarnerland.