Top 5 Castles in Schwyz
Best castles in Schwyz are found in a canton nestled in central Switzerland, between the Alps, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zürich. These historic sites and ruins offer insights into the region's past. Many are situated in scenic locations, often near lakes or rivers, providing both historical context and natural beauty. The canton features a variety of castle types, from island fortresses to hill castles.
Best castles in Schwyz
- The most popular castles is Schwanau Island, a lake with castle ruins. The island features castle ruins, a rebuilt chapel, and a restaurant, accessible by public ferry.
- Another must-see spot is Pfäffikon Castle Chapel (Chapel of St. Eustace), a castle complex. Its tower and chapel are used for events, and the grounds are open to the public.
- Visitors also love Gesslerburg Ruins, a castle ruin. This site is associated with the legend of William Tell and offers views from its elevated position.
- Schwyz is known for hill castles, water castles, and island fortresses. Visitors can explore ruins, restored towers, and sites with historical significance.
- The castles in Schwyz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 upvotes and 30 photos shared.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Schwanau Island
Highlight • Lake
schwanau.ch
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Schloss Grynau and country inn
Highlight • Castle
The tower is still preserved (from the 13th century), formerly owned by Zurich, Toggenburg and Habsburg, then transferred to the property of the Canton of Schwyz. Next to it the country inn (closed Tues / Wed), moderate feedback on the internet (!?)
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Gesslerburg Ruins
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The "nobles of Küssnach" and the lords of Silenen as lords of the castle
Gesslerburg is the name of the medieval castle in Küssnacht. Like Hohle Gasse in Immensee, it is linked to the legend of Wilhelm Tell. According to the historian Aegidius Tschudi, it is said to have been the seat of Landsvogt Hermann Gessler. The ruins of the Gesslerburg have been owned by the Swiss Confederation since 1908.
The ruins of the hilltop castle are located on a hilltop in the east of the village, above the village stream, which flows from the Seebodenalp into the lake. A path leads up to the Gesslerburg from the Knochenstampfe, a shed by the stream with a water wheel in which fertilizer was once produced.
Despite archaeological investigations, very little is known about the origin and history of the castle complex. There is evidence of a nobleman named Recho from the second half of the 9th century, who donated his possessions in Küssnacht to the Benedictine monastery in Hof Luzern, along with other goods. An early medieval castle probably also belonged to it. The first documented mention dates back to 1263: «in castro nostro Chüssenach».
In 1291, Küssnacht was bought from the monastery by Rudolf I of Habsburg. The lords of the castle, who were employed as bailiffs by the House of Habsburg, appeared as "nobles from Küssnach". Knight Eppo II (1282-1315) demanded taxes, duties and forced labor as a bailiff. In 1302 there was a dispute with the villagers of Küssnacht, Immensee and Haltikon, in which the bailiff is said to have almost died. Around the middle of the 14th century. The castle was destroyed by fire and then rebuilt much larger.
Text / source: Küssnacht District, Seeplatz 2/3, Postfach 176, 6403 Küssnacht am Rigi
kuessnacht.ch/district/sightseeing/ruine_gesslerburg.html/107
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Pfäffikon Castle Chapel (Chapel of St. Eustace)
Highlight • Religious Site
The castle chapel of Pfäffikon. The place name Pfäffikon means "court of the priest". It is assumed that there was a building here on the shore of Lake Zurich, in which the clergyman who looked after the island of Ufenau lived, together with the associated area. The castle and the chapel, like the island of Ufenau, have belonged to the Einsiedeln monastery for centuries.
Anselm von Schwanden, abbot of Einsiedeln Abbey from 1233 to 1266, had the thick tower built, which we can still see here today. It is believed that the tower served primarily as a granary for the monastery's growing agricultural crops. In the early 14th century, the town bailiff of Rapperswil attacked the storage tower in Pfäffikon, but the local population of Rapperswil then stopped him from plundering it. As a result of this raid, the tower was reinforced with a moat.
Today's chapel dedicated to Saint Eustace was consecrated in 1568. Eustace is an early Christian martyr who died around 118 AD.
In 1798, French troops plundered the church. The present interior dates from the late 19th century. The neo-baroque altars were created in the monastery workshop in Einsiedeln. The canteen of the high altar now serves as a people's altar. The relics of Saint Pope Clement of Rome are said to be in this canteen. A look at the left side altar brings us back to the island of Ufenau. Here we see relics of St. Adalrich, who - as we have heard - worked as a priest on the island in the 10th century.
Source / Literature:
Buschor Oechslin, Anja: The art monuments of the canton of Schwyz. Volume 4: The District Courts. New edition. Bern. Published by the Society for Swiss Art History. 2010. 379 pages with illustrations and index. Linen with dust jacket. Series: The art monuments of Switzerland; volume 118
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View of Rapperswil Castle from the Wooden Boardwalk
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Seedamm and Rapperswil Old Town
Highlight (Segment) • Settlement
On the Seedamm often strong bicycle traffic, was already witness of 2 accidents (passing fast eBikes)!
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Tips from the Community
Schwanau Island – a small island with castle ruins and a restaurant. An island boat taxi will take you to and from the island. Please note the departure times.
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A transparently beautiful city that is worth visiting. The trip on the dam is unique! Fantastically beautiful...
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Very nice to bike here
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Small restaurant on the island with ferry, please inform yourself in advance about opening hours or ferry times
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Is beautiful in any weather
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The sunsets from the castle or the bridge are simply spectacular
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Gesslerburg ruins The "nobles of Küssnach" and the lords of Silenen as lords of the castle Gesslerburg is the name of the medieval castle in Küssnacht. Like Hohle Gasse in Immensee, it is linked to the legend of Wilhelm Tell. According to the historian Aegidius Tschudi, it is said to have been the seat of Landsvogt Hermann Gessler. The ruins of the Gesslerburg have been owned by the Swiss Confederation since 1908. The ruins of the hilltop castle are located on a hilltop in the east of the village, above the village stream, which flows from the Seebodenalp into the lake. A path leads up to the Gesslerburg from the Knochenstampfe, a shed by the stream with a water wheel in which fertilizer was once produced. Despite archaeological investigations, very little is known about the origin and history of the castle complex. There is evidence of a nobleman named Recho from the second half of the 9th century, who donated his possessions in Küssnacht to the Benedictine monastery in Hof Luzern, along with other goods. An early medieval castle probably also belonged to it. The first documented mention dates back to 1263: «in castro nostro Chüssenach». In 1291, Küssnacht was bought from the monastery by Rudolf I of Habsburg. The lords of the castle, who were employed as bailiffs by the House of Habsburg, appeared as "nobles from Küssnach". Knight Eppo II (1282-1315) demanded taxes, duties and forced labor as a bailiff. In 1302 there was a dispute with the villagers of Küssnacht, Immensee and Haltikon, in which the bailiff is said to have almost died. Around the middle of the 14th century. The castle was destroyed by fire and then rebuilt much larger. Text / source: Küssnacht District, Seeplatz 2/3, Postfach 176, 6403 Küssnacht am Rigi https://www.kuessnacht.ch/district/sightseeing/ruine_gesslerburg.html/107
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Absolutely no go by bike!!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most historically significant castles in Schwyz?
The Canton of Schwyz boasts several castles with deep historical roots. Gesslerburg Ruins in Küssnacht is famously linked to the legend of William Tell and the tyrannical Vogt Gessler. Pfäffikon Castle, also known as "Weissenburg," has a history dating back to 965 AD and served as an important administrative center for Einsiedeln Abbey. Schwanau Island in Lake Lauerz features castle ruins with a history of settlement from 1200 BC and was built by the Kyburgs.
Which castles in Schwyz are suitable for families?
Several castles in Schwyz offer family-friendly experiences. The grounds of Pfäffikon Castle are open to the public, and its proximity to Lake Zurich, a park, and restaurants make it an appealing day trip. Schloss Grynau and country inn also offers open grounds for exploration. Schwanau Island is accessible by public ferry and features castle ruins, a rebuilt chapel, and a restaurant, providing an adventurous outing for all ages.
Can I explore castle ruins in Schwyz?
Yes, the Canton of Schwyz is home to impressive castle ruins that are open for exploration. The Gesslerburg Ruins in Küssnacht allow visitors to walk through the remains of this historic hill castle. On Schwanau Island, you can explore the restored ruins of Schwanau Castle, which includes a viewing platform on the tower.
Are there castles in Schwyz with scenic views or natural surroundings?
Many castles in Schwyz are set in picturesque locations. The Gesslerburg Ruins offer scenic views from its elevated position. Schloss Grynau provides good views of the surrounding Linth River valley. Perhaps the most scenic is Schwanau Island, located in Lake Lauerz and surrounded by the Grosser and Kleiner Mythen and the Rigi mountains, offering a romantic and beautiful setting.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Schwyz?
The region around Schwyz castles offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain hikes, and gravel biking. For example, near Schwanau Island, you can enjoy road cycling routes like the 'Morgarten - Lake Lauerz Loop'. For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes in Schwyz, Mountain Hikes in Schwyz, or Gravel biking in Schwyz guides.
How can I reach Schwanau Island and its castle ruins?
Schwanau Island, located in Lake Lauerz, is a historical and cultural heritage site accessible by public passenger ferry. You can also reach the island with your own boat or a boat taxi. Once there, you can explore the castle ruins, the rebuilt chapel, and enjoy the island's restaurant.
Are there dining options available at or near the castles?
Yes, several castles offer dining facilities or are located near restaurants. On Schwanau Island, there is a restaurant for visitors. Adjacent to Schloss Grynau, you'll find a country inn providing lodging and dining options. Pfäffikon Castle is also close to restaurants and a small marina by Lake Zurich.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Schwyz?
The castles in Schwyz can be visited throughout the year, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring ruins and enjoying scenic views without the peak summer crowds. Summer allows for combining castle visits with lake activities, especially around Schwanau Island and Pfäffikon Castle. Some sites may have reduced hours or closures in winter, so it's advisable to check specific opening times.
Are the castles in Schwyz accessible by public transport?
Many castles in Schwyz are accessible via public transport. For instance, Schwanau Island is reached by public passenger ferry. The towns where castles like Pfäffikon Castle and Gesslerburg Ruins are located are generally well-connected by Swiss public transport, including trains and buses. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for specific routes to each castle.
Are there any unique legends associated with the castles in Schwyz?
Yes, the castles in Schwyz are steeped in local folklore. The Gesslerburg Ruins are famously associated with the legend of William Tell and the tyrannical Vogt Gessler. Schwanau Island also has a local legend about "Gemma von Arth," adding to its mystique and historical charm.
What kind of events or uses do the castles in Schwyz have today?
Beyond historical exploration, some castles in Schwyz serve modern purposes. The tower and chapel of Pfäffikon Castle are frequently used for events, weddings, and conferences. The castle chapel, dedicated to Saint Eustace, is also a significant historical site. The grounds of Schloss Grynau are open to visitors, with an adjacent country inn.
Can I visit a water castle in Schwyz?
Yes, Pfäffikon Castle, also known as "Weissenburg," is a notable water castle in Freienbach. Its history dates back to the 10th century, and it features a prominent square tower, a Gothic chapel, and a moat. The castle grounds are open to the public, offering a unique glimpse into this type of medieval fortification.
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