Stäfa on Lake Zurich: Vineyards, Culture and History

Stäfa lies on the upper right shore of Lake Zurich, on the so-called Gold Coast and at the southeastern end of the Pfannenstiel. The municipality stretches from the lakeshore at 403 metres above sea level to Stäfnertürli at 613 metres above sea level, encompassing both the lakeshore and higher elevations. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Stäfa, you can first choose the focus of your stay based on your interests: a walk through the vineyards, historic houses and exhibitions, or time by the water. These themes offer concrete starting points for planning your trip.

Through the Vineyards to Stäfa

The hike through the Gold Coast vineyards runs from Feldbach via Hombrechtikon to Stäfa and takes around two and a half hours. On the descent, it passes through the protected Lattenberg vineyard. From there, the route continues past Stigelenweiher to the Risi vineyard and Bachmann Winery, where visitors can taste a range of wines. The hike ends at Stäfa railway station. The approximate duration gives you a useful indication of how much time to set aside for the hike as a separate activity.

Winegrowing and Local History

At Bachmann Winery, guests learn about sustainable winegrowing. The winery organises tastings for groups, pairing wines with suitable regional delicacies. Pinot Noir and the rare Räuschling are among the specialities at Rütihof Winery. Räuschling is now grown almost exclusively around Lake Zurich—a distinctive feature closely tied to the region’s winegrowing tradition.

The history of a Swiss soft drink is also connected with Stäfa: production of Rivella began in 1952 in a former wine shop in the town. Together with the wineries, this offers different perspectives on local history: winegrowing as a present-day activity and the start of production at a specific location in the past.

Historic Houses and Exhibitions

Ritterhaus Ürikon and its ensemble of historic buildings lie directly on the shore of Lake Zurich and form a spacious, heritage-protected site. In the Dorf district, the Museum zur Farb is housed in one of Stäfa’s oldest buildings. Alongside a permanent exhibition, it regularly presents special exhibitions and hosts events on a range of historical topics.

Villa Sunneschy was built in 1906. Since 2001, following extensive restoration and renovation work, it has once again shone in its historic, colourful splendour. Stäfa therefore brings together a range of cultural themes: the protected ensemble of lakeside buildings, exhibitions and events at the museum, and the villa’s architectural and restoration history.

Meadow and Lakeside Lido

Between Villa Sunneschy and Lake Zurich is a public meadow with play and barbecue facilities. It is open year-round; before using the facilities, you can check their condition. Lattenberg lakeside lido, with its spacious sunbathing lawn and water slide, is on the outskirts of Stäfa.

Getting to Ritterhaus

You can reach Ritterhaus Ürikon by taking the S7 to Uerikon and then walking for seven minutes. Alternatively, bus B 952 goes directly to the Uerikon, Ritterhaus stop. Check the current timetable before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Herrliberg, Zumikon, Meilen, Männedorf, Obermeilen, Küsnacht, Hombrechtikon, Zollikon.

Back to the main travel overview: Meilen.