The 46-kilometre Ämtlerweg trail offers insights into the history of the Säuliamt region and panoramic views stretching from the Glarus Alps to Mount Pilatus. Around Affoltern, the hiking area ranges from gentle trails along the lakeshore to higher-altitude routes through wooded and open landscapes. A circular hike starts at Affoltern am Albis railway station, leads via Herferswil to Türlersee, and is classified as easy hiking, grade T1.
Hiking Trails and Landscapes
Further afield in the hiking area around Affoltern, TĂĽrlersee and the Jonenbach waterfall are among the natural features. Jonental valley, with the Jonenbach stream, and Sihlwald, part of Zurich Wilderness Park, are also natural areas that can be included in hikes in the region. For a sense of the landscape, it is also worth looking at the Knonauer Amt: it lies between the Albis range and the Reuss. Gentle hills, moorlands, small lakes and river valleys carved out by the Reppisch alternate here; extensive forests and agricultural land also shape the landscape.
The Maschwander Allmend offers another way to discover the region’s natural environment. This moorland covers more than 100 hectares and lies between the Reuss and the Lorze. It is an important breeding area for marsh birds and other bird species that inhabit open fenland, as well as a valuable resting place for waders. At Seleger Moor Park in Rifferswil, the focus is on plants: hundreds of thousands of rhododendrons and azaleas are displayed across 120,000 square metres.
Activities Throughout the Seasons
The activities mentioned also vary by season: swimming in Türlersee is a regional leisure activity, while the Feldenmaas cross-country ski trail offers an opportunity to ski in winter. Those interested in freestyle sports can visit the Jumpin Water Ramp Center in Mettmenstetten, a facility for ski freestyle. Jumpin’s water ramp provides freestyle athletes with good conditions for summer training.
Monastery, Mill and Local History
Kappel Abbey Church was completed around 1300 and is one of Switzerland’s oldest Gothic churches. It is open daily and can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour. Regular monastery tours and garden walks are held at the abbey; groups can book tours individually. Check the latest visiting information and tour dates before your trip.
AumĂĽli in Stallikon was first mentioned in a document dated 16 May 1328. Tours are offered from April to October. Depending on the tour, you can learn about the spring, the mill, the waterwheel and the sawmill; the various features are demonstrated in operation by knowledgeable guides. The exact scope depends on the tour.
Riedhof Mine also tells the story of the region: during the Second World War, it was the second-largest coal mine in the Canton of Zurich. The museum and mine tunnels are open to visitors, schools and groups on selected Saturdays. As opening days may vary, it is best to check the dates before your visit.
The Affoltern am Albis / Zwillikon Local History Museum explores everyday life, trade and local history through objects and photographs. It is open on the first weekend of every month: Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 4 pm. Tours are available by arrangement; here too, it is worth checking the latest information before setting off.
Technological History and Regional Discoveries
Public demonstrations of the entire historic Ottenbach small hydroelectric power station are held. The facility has been in its present form since 1920. Check the latest dates in advance if you plan to attend a demonstration. Together with the mill tours, the power station offers a glimpse into the region’s technological heritage, while museums and the abbey church provide other ways to explore its history.
When planning your trip, you can combine these themes with the landscapes and activities that interest you most: a hike, the history of the Säuliamt, a natural area or a cultural visit. Opening hours, tours and demonstrations have different conditions, so check the relevant dates if you are planning a visit.
Discover more destinations: Uetliberg, Bonstetten, Knonau, Ottenbach, Aeugstertal, Affoltern Am Albis, Aeugst Am Albis, Kappel Am Albis, Hausen Am Albis
Return to the main travel overview: Zurich.
