Sattel-Hochstuckli

Sattel is a village in the canton of Schwyz, at the northern edge of the central Swiss Alps, and above it rises the Hochstuckli, a rounded hill of about 1,560 metres that has been developed as a family-oriented leisure mountain. The landscape here is not high Alpine but pre-Alpine, a land of green hills, forests, farmsteads and small lakes, and it gives a gentler introduction to the mountains. From the top, the views take in the lakes of the region, the Rigi and Pilatus massifs, and on clear days the white peaks of the central Alps to the south, so the Hochstuckli is a good viewpoint without any demanding climb.

A gondola takes visitors up from Sattel, and it is one of the main attractions of the mountain. The cabins turn slowly as they climb, so that passengers see the full view without moving, a type of rotating gondola that has become popular in Swiss mountain resorts. The ride lasts only a few minutes, and the changing panorama of the valley, forest and distant mountains makes it a pleasure in itself. From the top station, a number of facilities and trails are set up for families.

In summer the main attractions are walking, a suspension bridge and a toboggan run. A footbridge hung high above a gully, known as the Skywalk, gives a thrill to those who dare to cross and a view down the slope, and a summer toboggan run lets children and adults slide down a track on small sleds, controlling their speed by a lever. Playgrounds, a mountain restaurant and a number of marked trails of various lengths complete the offering. The walks are mostly gentle and suitable for children, and the open pastures are good for picnics.

In winter, the Hochstuckli is a small ski area, with a few lifts and slopes for beginners and families, and a winter walking and sledging trail. Snow conditions vary since the altitude is modest, so it is wise to check the situation before going. The ski area is not meant to compete with the great resorts but offers a quiet, inexpensive day in the snow close to Zürich and Lucerne.

The surrounding area has historical interest. The village of Sattel lies close to Morgarten, the site of the battle of 1315, when Swiss forces defeated an Austrian army in a narrow pass beside the Ägerisee, an event traditionally seen as an early milestone in the history of the Swiss Confederation. A monument stands on the battlefield, and the nearby Rothenthurm moor, a large high bog, became famous in the 1980s when a popular initiative to protect bogs began there. Both can be combined with a visit to the mountain, and the Ägerisee, a lake with a beach, is a short drive away.

The lift is reached by car or bus from Biberbrugg, and parking is available at the valley station. Lift timetables and prices vary with the season, so check the operator's website. The area suits families with young children, casual walkers and anyone who likes a relaxed day out. Allow half a day, and bring warm clothing, as the summit can be breezy.