Sarnen

Sarnen is a small historic town and the capital of the canton of Obwalden. It lies where the Sarner Aa flows out, on the northern shore of Lake Sarnersee, and is surrounded by rural landscapes and mountains. When planning your stay, you can focus on two things: the town’s history and activities on the lake.

Experience Lake Sarnersee along the shore and on the water

Sarnen’s lakeshore has a promenade, bathing spots and picnic lawns. You can cycle or walk along the shore path, with views of the lake and mountains. The lido in Sarnen offers swimming and stand-up paddleboard rentals; Lake Sarnersee also has family-friendly bathing spots.

For those who want to get out on the water, Seefeld Park Sarnen has modern SUP boards for outings alone, as a pair or in a group. Canoes are available for one- or two-person nature experiences on Lake Sarnersee. Group size is a practical difference between the options: SUP is suitable for individuals, couples and groups, while the canoes are intended for one or two people.

Local history in towers, houses and the museum

The Witch Tower was built shortly before 1291. It later served, among other things, as a prison, interrogation room, treasury tower, archive and museum. Today, the Obwalden State Archives are housed in the tower. Its various uses give the building a place in several chapters of local history.

Several historic manor houses stand in the village square, reflecting the wealth of influential families. The Museum Obwalden is dedicated to the history, art, applied arts, folklore and customs of Obwalden. It originated in the arsenal built in 1599. The museum displays 750 objects across two floors.

Another way to explore Sarnen’s history is the “Village Stories” audio tour. It offers insights into the town’s history and takes you to various sites, including the Witch Tower, the pillory and Landenberg. The tour is also aimed at families; playful elements and small tasks accompany the route.

Raised bog and regional day-trip destinations

Langis, a protected raised bog, lies above Sarnen. It is visited in both summer and winter. Together with Lake Sarnersee, it offers a different perspective on the landscape: here, the protected bog takes centre stage; there, the shore and activities on the water.

Regional day-trip destinations can also be reached from Sarnen: Pilatus, Stanserhorn and Melchsee-Frutt are accessible by train and bus. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between Sarnen’s sights and nature experiences and these regional destinations, without losing sight of the town’s history or the lake.

Discover more destinations: Stalden, Wilen, Sachseln, Engelberg, Melchsee-Frutt, Alpnach, Lungern, Giswil.

Go to the main travel overview: Obwalden.