Top 20 Natural Monuments around Altendorf
Natural monuments around Altendorf, a municipality in the canton of Schwyz, Switzerland, offer diverse natural features. The region is characterized by its location on the southern shore of the Obersee, part of Lake Zurich, and its proximity to pre-alpine heights. This area provides access to various lakes and natural reserves, making it a destination for outdoor exploration. The landscape includes both artificial and natural lakes, alongside protected moorlands.
Best natural monuments around Altendorf
- The most popular natural monument is Lake Wägital, a lake that is an artificial barrier lake created for hydroelectric energy. It is known for its panoramic views and recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking.
- Another must-see spot is Lützelsee, a lake. This small moor lake in the Zurich Oberland is a nature reserve.
- Visitors also love Sternen Pond, a lake. This reservoir is notable for its fountain, which sprays water up to 101 meters high.
- Altendorf is known for its lakes and moorlands. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from large artificial lakes to smaller natural reserves.
- The natural monuments around Altendorf are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 200 upvotes and 30 photos shared.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Lake Wägital
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Sternen Pond
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It lies north-east of Sonntagern and drains into Lake Zurich via the Mülibach. According to the national map, its tributary is called Miesbach.[1]
In 1873, the silk manufacturer Rudolf Zinggeler-Syfrig received the rights to use the Mülibach to drive the machines in his Zinggeler AG silk mill. Above Richterswil, the star pond was created by damming the Mülibach. A two-kilometre-long pressure pipe carried the water down to Lake Zurich, where it drove a water turbine in Zinggeler's factory. For amusement and as a symbol of industrialization, from 1875 onwards the manufacturer let the water rise through a nozzle on holidays such as August 1st: A fountain was created with a height of 80 to 85 meters. This fountain was long considered the highest on the continent. In 1972 the power plant was shut down and with it the fountain.[2]
The fountain, which was restored by the Richterswil Historical Fountains Association, which was founded in 2003, was put back into operation in 2007. Today it sprays up to 101 m high.
Source: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starnweiher
Easy to reach by bike (asphalt). Starting point for tours in all directions. Restaurant "Star Lake" 100 m away.
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Lake Hüttner
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Lützelsee
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Rothenthurm Moor
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Tips from the Community
A popular, easily accessible lake that can also be easily circumnavigated.
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Don't miss the turnoff on your bike - coming from the south, I just sped right past it...
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The Hüttnersee is located in a nature reserve between the villages of Hütten and Saturdayern in the canton of Zurich. The small, idyllic lake lies on the border with the canton of Schwyz at an altitude of 658 meters above sea level. Hüttner Moorsee is fed by the Sägelbach and the Krebsbach, the latter also flowing out of the lake. The small lake has a maximum depth of 13.5 meters. The lake is artificially aerated through agricultural over-fertilization. The Hüttner Seeli is located in a picturesque landscape high above Lake Zurich amidst pastures and hills. In winter, the Seeli is partly frozen over and, as long as the municipality allows it, nothing stands in the way of ice skating fun. There is a beach at the Seelein between May and October. This offers a small kiosk, a lawn and play areas for children. Source: https://www.schweizersee.ch/huettnersee/
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The Sternenweiher is a reservoir in the municipality of Richterswil in the canton of Zurich in Switzerland. It lies north-east of Sonntagern and drains into Lake Zurich via the Mülibach. According to the national map, its tributary is called Miesbach.[1] In 1873, the silk manufacturer Rudolf Zinggeler-Syfrig received the rights to use the Mülibach to drive the machines in his Zinggeler AG silk mill. Above Richterswil, the star pond was created by damming the Mülibach. A two-kilometre-long pressure pipe carried the water down to Lake Zurich, where it drove a water turbine in Zinggeler's factory. For amusement and as a symbol of industrialization, from 1875 onwards the manufacturer let the water rise through a nozzle on holidays such as August 1st: A fountain was created with a height of 80 to 85 meters. This fountain was long considered the highest on the continent. In 1972 the power plant was shut down and with it the fountain.[2] The fountain, which was restored by the Richterswil Historical Fountains Association, which was founded in 2003, was put back into operation in 2007. Today it sprays up to 101 m high. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starnweiher Easy to reach by bike (asphalt). Starting point for tours in all directions. Restaurant "Star Lake" 100 m away.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Altendorf?
Among the most popular natural monuments in the region is Lake Wägital, an artificial barrier lake known for its stunning panoramic views and recreational opportunities. Other highly regarded spots include Lützelsee, a small moor lake and nature reserve, and Sternen Pond, famous for its impressive fountain.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments near Altendorf?
Yes, several natural monuments around Altendorf are great for families. Lake Wägital offers leisurely walks and bike rides on its paved path. Sternen Pond is easily accessible and features a spectacular fountain. Lake Hüttner has a small lido for swimming and a gravel path suitable for walks, while Lützelsee is a cozy natural pool with a kiosk.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Altendorf?
The region around Altendorf is rich in diverse natural features. You'll find several beautiful lakes, including the large artificial Lake Wägital and the smaller, picturesque Lake Hüttner and Lützelsee. The area also features significant moorlands, such as the Rothenthurm Moor, which is the largest raised bog in Switzerland, offering unique biodiversity.
Can I go hiking or cycling near these natural monuments?
Absolutely. The natural monuments around Altendorf are excellent starting points for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails like the Stöcklichrüz Summit loop or the St. Meinrad Inn loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Lake Zurich Lakeside Cycle Path or the Altendorf lido to Rapperswil Harbour loop. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Altendorf and Cycling around Altendorf guide pages.
Is there a natural monument with historical significance in the region?
Yes, Sternen Pond holds historical significance. Originally a reservoir created in 1873 to power a silk mill, it once featured a fountain that was considered the highest on the continent. After restoration, its fountain now sprays water up to 101 meters high, symbolizing the region's industrial past.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Altendorf?
The warmer months are generally ideal for visiting, as they allow for activities like boating, fishing, and swimming in the lakes. However, the region offers beauty year-round. During winter, for instance, Lake Hüttner can freeze over, providing opportunities for ice skating when conditions allow.
Are there options for circular walks around any of the natural monuments?
Yes, several natural monuments offer pleasant circular routes. Lake Wägital has a paved path perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides around its entire circumference. Similarly, Lake Hüttner features a gravel path and a narrow asphalted road circling the lake, ideal for walks amidst nature.
How can I reach the natural monuments using public transport?
While specific public transport details for each monument vary, many areas around Altendorf are accessible. For example, Sternen Pond is easily reachable by bike, and the general region is well-connected. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most direct routes to your chosen natural monument.
Are there any natural monuments that offer great viewpoints?
Yes, several natural monuments provide excellent viewpoints. Lake Wägital is surrounded by mountains like Gross Aubrig and Fluebrig, offering stunning panoramic views. Lake Hüttner is situated in a picturesque landscape high above Lake Zurich, amidst pastures and hills, providing scenic vistas.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the serene landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities. Many appreciate the beauty of Lake Wägital for its hiking and biking, while the unique fountain at Sternen Pond is a popular highlight. The peaceful nature reserves like Lützelsee and the scenic walks around Lake Hüttner are also highly valued.
Where can I find refreshments or accommodation near the natural monuments?
Several natural monuments have amenities nearby. For instance, there are multiple restaurants along the road around Lake Wägital. Sternen Pond has a restaurant just 100 meters away, and Lützelsee features a small kiosk with regional food. Lake Hüttner's lido also offers a small kiosk during the warmer months.
What is the 'Hundlochquelle' and where can I find it?
The 'Hundlochquelle' spring is a natural gem resembling a grotto, hidden below the road around Lake Wägital. It's a notable stop along the lake circuit, offering a unique natural sight.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/332087" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rothenthurm Moor</a> known for?
The Rothenthurm Moor is renowned as the largest raised bog in Switzerland. It's a significant natural monument valued for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the moor via designated hiking trails, which must not be left to protect the delicate ecosystem.
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