The “Scenic Peninsula” hike makes Horw an easy destination for a manageable outing: it is 5.7 kilometres long, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, is rated easy and suitable for families, and can be walked year-round. It starts at Horw train station. From there, the route leads through the residential area, across Grämliswald and Dickiwald to Winkel, then follows the Steinibach back to the station. In Winkel, you can swim in the lake; along the way, you will also find the Chnolligen farm shop, which offers a wide selection of its own products.
Wetland landscape and glacial landforms
The Steinibachried is protected as a fen and an amphibian spawning area of national importance. At 8.4 hectares, it is the largest wetland on Lake Lucerne. The surrounding landscape also bears traces of its formation: the repeated advances and retreats of the Reuss and Aare-Brünig glaciers shaped Horw. Smoothed rock hummocks, such as those in Längacherwald, and erratic boulders made of rock from elsewhere are among these geological features.
On the slopes of Mount Pilatus lies Buholzerschwändi, with a raised bog at around 1,000 metres above sea level. It is a destination for outings and has a spring-water fountain, a fire pit and views across the Lucerne landscape, the city of Lucerne, the Horw peninsula and Lake Lucerne, reaching as far as the mountains of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden. Other trails lead from Buholzerschwändi to places including Krienseregg and Fräkmüntegg.
Hike or canoe route
The hike returns to its starting point via Winkel; the “Horw-Lucerne” canoe route offers a different experience. It is 8.04 kilometres long, starts in Horw and goes around the Horw peninsula, past Kastanienbaum, to Lucerne. The launch point is at the slipway next to the Seehotel Sternen in Winkel. At the Horw end, the route lists Seewen as a place to take a break and swim: its pebble beaches are suitable for landing, and public toilets are also available. The two options therefore differ both in mode of transport and in whether the route returns to the station or continues to Lucerne.
Water and leisure
Seebad Horw can be reached from Lucerne train station by taking bus B20 to Horw, Seefeld, followed by a 300-metre walk. As public transport connections can change, check the timetable before travelling. The lido has beach volleyball courts, some of which are occupied by the volleyball club. Take this into account when planning and check in advance whether the courts are currently available.
Felmis minigolf offers an activity for families, friends and clubs; you can also play table tennis there. The kiosk sells ice cream, drinks and snacks. It is open seasonally, and what is on offer may change. This leisure tip differs from the trails and nature destinations: the focus here is on games and spending time together.
Local history and culture
Winkel is a historic district between the slope, the Steinibachried and the lake. Its buildings, which shape the character of the area, are to be preserved wherever possible. Horw parish church also has a clearly dated construction history: work on the church, built in the Empire style, began in 1813; it was consecrated by a bishop. For those interested in events, the KulturmĂĽhle Horw has a White Hall suitable for medium-sized events in music, theatre, cabaret, literature and film.
The Samichlaus tradition, organised by the “Horwer Samichlaus” association, is part of local life. It has been going on for decades and includes home visits to families on request. The name Kastanienbaum also points to the peninsula’s long history: around Lake Lucerne, the sweet chestnut was an important staple food from the Middle Ages until the 17th century. Kastanienbaum was first mentioned in 1434; its name recalls how widespread chestnut trees once were on the Horw peninsula.
A look inside the iHomeLab
The iHomeLab regularly offers free public guided tours. If no suitable date is available for a public tour, you can also visit by arrangement. The results of research projects on intelligent buildings are continually incorporated into the iHomeLab and are accessible to the public. When planning your visit, check which tour date works for you.
Discover more destinations: Kastanienbaum, Root, Vitznau, Greppen, Meggen, Schachen, Kriens, Littau.
Return to the main travel overview: Lucerne.
