Näfels: Cultural History and Mountain Scenery

Näfels combines local history with activities for a range of interests: the Freuler Palace explores the history of the Canton of Glarus, while the Lake Obersee circular trail and the mountain hike to the Rautispitz cater to different time budgets. The Näfelser Fahrt also shapes the town. If you are looking for a hotel in Näfels, these distinctive features can help you choose a destination that suits your plans.

Freuler Palace and Local History

Freuler Palace is one of the most magnificent Swiss residential buildings of the 17th century. The Museum of the Canton of Glarus has been based there since 1946. It presents the history and culture of the Canton of Glarus from its beginnings to the present day. The palace offers a tour of nine reception and living rooms dating from the 17th century. The tour thus offers two perspectives on the building: its use as a residence and its representative rooms.

The townscape and individual buildings also contribute to Näfels’ historical character. The town is listed among the sites of national importance in the ISOS. The Catholic Church of St. Hilarius is listed in the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property of National Significance. Näfels is also associated with the Battle of Näfels in 1388.

The Mariaburg monastery complex reveals another historical layer. It stands on the site of Näfels Castle, which was destroyed by the people of Glarus in 1351 and had previously been an important Habsburg administrative center in the Glarus region. The monastery was founded on the castle hill in 1674; a Franciscan community lives there today. The castle, its destruction and the later founding of the monastery belong to different chapters in the town’s history.

The Näfelser Fahrt Throughout the Year

The Näfelser Fahrt takes place on the first Thursday in April, unless that falls during Holy Week. Processions head toward Näfels and the battle memorial, as well as the eleventh commemorative stone. The official ceremony concludes with a solemn High Mass in Näfels parish church; at the same time, a market takes place in the streets of Näfels. The day thus brings together a procession, remembrance, a church service and market activity in the town. If you would like to include the Fahrt in your travel plans, check the date and program in advance, as details can change from year to year.

At Lake Obersee: A Walk or a Mountain Hike

Näfels lies at 437 meters above sea level in the border region of the Schwyz Alps, the Glarus Alps and the Eastern Swiss Prealps. The highest point in the former municipality is the Rautispitz, at 2,283 meters. Näfels also lies on the left bank of the Linth. An on-demand bus takes visitors from Näfels to Lake Obersee; check transport details before setting out.

Lake Obersee is a clear mountain lake with views of the Glarus Prealps. Its circular trail is 3.0 kilometers long, is classified as an easy walking trail and takes about 50 minutes. A walking path also goes all the way around the lake and is suitable for strollers; visitors can also fish at Lake Obersee. Routes, access and fishing conditions can change, so it is worth checking the latest information before your outing.

Those planning more time for a mountain tour can hike from Lake Obersee via Rautialp to the Rautispitz. This mountain hike involves 1,300 meters of elevation gain and takes around six and a half hours. The difference from the circular trail is not just the duration: the route to the summit also involves the stated elevation gain. Traditional alpine raw-milk cheese is still made at the Obersee-Rauti alpine pasture near Näfels, refined with salt and Zigerklee. This also gives visitors an insight into a local production tradition as they explore the mountain landscape.

Swimming, Bouldering and Biking

The lintharena offers a range of activities centered around water. Its indoor pool is directly connected to an outdoor pool heated to 34.5 °C; there is also a 25-meter swimming pool, a multipurpose pool and a children’s splash area. A water slide more than 100 meters long rounds out the facilities. The wellness area includes a bio sauna, a Finnish sauna, a steam bath, experience showers, relaxation rooms and a tea corner with views of the Glarus Alps. For specific day-trip planning, it is best to check the latest opening information.

The bike skills park offers several flowing circuits, as well as jumps and technical trails with rock gardens, hairpin turns and drops. A 100-square-meter children’s area is designed for balance bikes and children’s bikes. Those who prefer climbing can find courses for different ages and experience levels at the GLKB bouldering hall. A freely accessible skatepark is also located right next to the lintharena, offering visitors a safe environment.

In Näfels, the choices range from cultural history and recurring commemorative traditions to swimming, biking and mountain tours. When deciding on your trip, you can consider whether you want your stay to focus more on local sightseeing, a walk at Lake Obersee or a longer hike.

Discover more destinations: Matt, Nidfurn, Mollis, Glarus, Glarus Süd, Filzbach, Elm, Obstalden

Go to the main travel overview: Glarus.