Einsiedeln

This is Einsiedeln

Einsiedeln is located in Central Switzerland near Lake Sihl. The town is the most visited pilgrimage site in Switzerland thanks to the Einsiedeln Abbey and the Black Madonna, and it is a popular starting point for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or skiing in the Hoch-Ybrig area.

Discover Einsiedeln

During your walk through Einsiedeln, you will cross seven squares with information panels revealing interesting facts about the history of this pilgrimage site. Stop at the gingerbread museum and try the "Schafbock," a pilgrim’s pastry made of honey dough. Or visit the show dairy at the Milk Manufactory. The highlight is undoubtedly the beautiful monastery square with the Marian fountain, where some pilgrims drink a sip of water from all 14 fountain spouts.

Einsiedeln Abbey

The Abbey is Einsiedeln’s landmark and one of the most important Baroque buildings in Switzerland. The monastery complex includes a nursery, a winery, stables, a monastery shop, and of course the Baroque monastery church. Be enchanted by the figure of the Black Madonna in the Chapel of Grace, who wears one of her more than 20 splendid robes depending on the calendar. During a monastery tour, you immerse yourself in the monks’ life and take a look inside the abbey library.

Einsiedeln Plateau

Einsiedeln lies on a picturesque plateau at almost 900 meters, inviting you to enjoy outdoor activities. The nearby Sihlsee, the largest reservoir in Switzerland, offers relaxation and many water sports opportunities. Hiking trails lead you around the lake and to peaks with fantastic views. In winter, you can go cross-country skiing above the sea of fog or skate laps on the ice rink next to the monastery.

Around Einsiedeln

Not far from Einsiedeln are the popular ski and hiking areas Hoch-Ybrig and the Mythen region. In about half an hour, you can reach the towns of Zug or Zurich with their eponymous lakes. Or follow in the footsteps of pilgrims by hiking on a stage of the Way of St. James from Rapperswil-Jona on Lake Zurich to Einsiedeln.

Experience Einsiedeln for less

As an overnight guest, you benefit from discounts on mountain railways, museums, and excursions in the canton of Schwyz and on Lake Lucerne with the Schwyz Guest Card.