Best natural monuments around Dürnten are situated in a region known for its diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The area features a landscape characterized by hills, forests, and lakes, providing a setting for outdoor activities. Dürnten is located within the Canton of Zurich, offering access to various natural attractions. The local commitment to nature protection is evident through efforts to maintain indigenous flora and fauna.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
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Well-maintained stream and clean structures
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According to my estimate, the gap is only about 35 cm at its narrowest point, so it only goes straight through and without a backpack or a larger stomach.... At the top end there is a rope to help you get out, which is good.
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unique... put on good shoes the narrowest point is about 50cm... :)
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Super observation tower on Lake Zurich and the Alps
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Overweight people should not try to get through the Bachtelspalt. Very interesting Nagelfluh formation, also interesting for children.
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Pfäffikersee circular route no. 890 The popular circular route around Lake Pfäffikersee in the Zurich Oberland leads through unique nature with typical moor plants, past the romantic farming village of Seegräben and back to the pulsating lake promenade of Pfäffikon ZH. The starting point is Pfäffikon ZH, where you are just a stone's throw away in the middle of an enchanting lakeside landscape. A comfortable path leads past high reed belts and magnificent moorland landscapes, which provide a habitat for countless animal and plant species. Along the way you can catch a particularly attractive view of the nature reserve from pretty wooden walkways. A very special eye-catcher is the farming village of Seegräben, which you can see, gently embedded in the intact nature. With the half-timbered houses typical of the region, the place offers a romantic view and takes the viewer back to earlier times. The wide meadows sway peacefully in the wind and on the lake side the variety of aquatic plants and local animals is impressive. For a relaxing break, there are both cozy places in nature and restaurants along the route. A detour to the signposted adventure farm is also worthwhile. After the village of Auslikon, the stately Roman fort appears on the horizon as another eye-catcher before you reach Pfäffikon ZH again - showered by the natural experience. Text / Source: SwitzerlandMobility https://www.schweizmobil.ch/de/wanderland/routen/route-0890.html
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The Bachtelspalt is an approximately 50 meter long chasm that can be explored in a "hike" of approximately 5 minutes. The fissure consists of Nagelfluh, a mixture of boulders and rounded pebbles cemented by carbonate of lime. At the narrowest point, the gap is only 40 centimeters wide and the walls are up to eight meters high. The gap was created after a violent thunderstorm on August 25, 1939. It is still moving slowly but steadily today. So it could be that at some point it will close again.
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Incredibly great panoramic view of Lake Zurich/Obersee. Every effort that this small but beautiful mountain requires is worth it! What is also great is that the Bachtel can be reached via various routes. Even though the view from the mountain is already great, the observation tower should definitely be climbed. A head for heights is an advantage. However, since you can't see the ground below because of the steps and the plateaus, it is also relatively suitable for those who are not afraid of heights (I can report this from my husband's experience) When I'm in the area again, I'll hike up the Bachtel again using a different route.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the expansive panoramic views from Schnebelhorn Summit, the highest point in the Canton of Zurich. Another favorite is Bachtel Tower, offering stunning views over Lake Zurich and the Alps, complete with a restaurant. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail is also highly regarded for its unique natural landscapes and tranquil lake views.
The region around Dürnten offers a diverse range of natural features. You can explore high peaks like Schnebelhorn Summit, enjoy viewpoints such as Bachtel Tower, and discover unique geological formations like the Bachtelspalt gorge. There are also beautiful water features, including the Sagenraintobel Waterfalls and the tranquil Pfäffikersee Circular Trail with its moor plants.
Yes, several natural attractions are suitable for families. The Bachtel Tower is ideal, combining stunning views with easy accessibility and a restaurant. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail is also very popular for family walks and cycling, offering diverse flora and tranquil lake views. Additionally, the Sagenraintobel Waterfalls provide a scenic and family-friendly trail experience.
The trails vary in difficulty. For instance, the ascent to Schnebelhorn Summit can be relatively steep and is considered challenging. The Bachtelspalt gorge is rated intermediate to challenging. However, the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail offers a more relaxed experience, suitable for various fitness levels. Many routes around Bachtel Tower are also considered intermediate.
The area around Dürnten is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking trails, including moderate loops around Bachtel Tower. There are also numerous options for cycling and gravel biking, with routes ranging from moderate to difficult, offering scenic views of the region and lakes.
Yes, there are many hiking opportunities. For example, you can find moderate hiking loops like the 'Bachtel Tower – Bachtelspalt loop from Bachtel' or easier options such as the 'Hasenstrick Pass – View of Lake Zurich loop from Bachtel'. For more details and routes, explore the hiking guide for Dürnten.
Absolutely. The region provides excellent terrain for both cycling and gravel biking. You can find challenging gravel biking routes like the 'Küsnachter Tobel – View from Pfannenstielturm loop from Bubikon' or diverse cycling tours such as the 'Lake Greifensee – On the cycle path near Maur loop from Tann-Dürnten'. Check out the dedicated cycling guide and gravel biking guide for Dürnten for more options.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, especially from Schnebelhorn Summit and Bachtel Tower. The unique natural landscapes, including moor plants along the Pfäffikersee Circular Trail, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the well-maintained paths and the opportunity for a rewarding outdoor experience, often combined with refreshments at places like Bachtel Tower.
Yes, the Bachtelspalt is a unique geological feature near Dürnten. It's a narrow gorge that offers a sensational and memorable experience. Visitors often recommend wearing good shoes to navigate its tightest points and exploring the short circular walk around it.
Yes, the Sagenraintobel Waterfalls are a beautiful natural attraction in the area. Located in a scenic ravine where the Tösstal slopes down to Lake Zurich, these waterfalls are part of an elongated incision traversed by the Schmittenbach, offering a tranquil landscape for strolling along the streams.
Yes, the region is noted for its ecological significance. The Pfäffikersee Circular Trail, for example, leads through unique natural landscapes that include moor plants, indicating a special ecological environment. The local Naturschutzverein Dürnten (Nature Conservation Association Dürnten) actively works to support indigenous flora and fauna and maintains various biotopes, such as wet and dry meadows, reflecting a strong commitment to nature protection.
For truly spectacular views, many visitors recommend visiting Schnebelhorn Summit early in the morning to witness the sunrise. The panoramic views from both Schnebelhorn and Bachtel Tower are generally best on clear days, offering expansive vistas of the Swiss landscape, Lake Zurich, and the Alps.


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