A path through a protected marsh, a steep descent to the Suenerstäg and the Sihl flowing between blocks of Nagelfluh conglomerate: the signposted walk from Schönenberg via the Sihlsprung to Sihlbrugg Dorf brings together landscape and local history over a 9.3-kilometre route. Highlights also include a historic church complex, an annual village event and other ways to shape your stay around your own interests.
A walk through marshland and moraine country
The Schönenberg–Sihlsprung–Sihlbrugg Dorf walk is rated easy. Shortly after the start, the route reaches its highest point, from where you can look out over the characteristic moraine landscape. Later, it crosses a protected marsh and descends steeply to the Suenerstäg. So although the walk is rated easy, there is a specific section to bear in mind when planning your route.
At the Sihlsprung, the Sihl flows between large blocks of Nagelfluh conglomerate that have broken away from the rock faces. The use of the rock face is also part of the route’s history: tunnels were built there in 1898 to access the water intakes for the city of Zurich. This brings a striking landform and a late-19th-century engineering project together on the same route.
The walk starts at the Schönenberg ZH, Dorfhuus bus stop and ends at the Sihlbrugg, Dorf stop. If you are travelling by public transport, check the current timetable before setting out. The start and end points are at different stops, so plan your outbound and return journeys accordingly.
Churches and village history
At the heart of the Reformed church is a complex comprising the church building, rectory and cemetery, enclosed by a perimeter wall and built in 1702/1703. The church was consecrated on 18 March 1703. Its brick tower, built to plans by cantonal architect Hermann Fietz, was completed in 1897. The dates mark different stages: the church’s consecration and the tower’s completion are almost two centuries apart.
The rectory also features architectural details such as wood-panelled walls, coffered ceilings, plaster ceilings with stucco edging and a Nehracher tiled stove from 1792. The Catholic Church of the Holy Family has a different character; it was consecrated by Bishop Johannes Vonderach of Chur on 29 September 1985. Its door handles are decorated with metal inlays depicting doves, salamanders, ants and a cross spider, and the church also has expansive stained-glass windows.
Schönenberg’s history is also linked to Wädenswil and Hütten. Their long shared history dates back to the medieval Barony of Wädenswil. This connection adds a regional historical perspective to the individual churches.
Village life and special events
Dorfmitti at Schulhausweg 1 is a venue for local associations, with a café and library. As opening arrangements may change, check the current opening hours before visiting. The venue also plays a role in the village events described here: the Schönenberger Noijaars-Aawünschete is an old New Year’s custom featuring Rosoli liqueur and pear bread. It took place at Dorfmitti on 1 January 2024 at 4 p.m.; this does not indicate a current event date.
The annual Schönenberger Chilbi fair takes place on Dorfhuusplatz. The 2024 event featured festival food, live music and a Sunday morning church service. Dates and programmes may change; check the details for the next event before travelling. This lets you weigh up a walk, a village event and a visit to historic buildings as different focuses for your stay.
More ways to enjoy your stay
The Golf & Country Club Schönenberg is set in the marshland around Krebsbach between Schönenberg and Hirzel. Its 18-hole golf course was built in 1967 and is open to members and guests. If golf is part of your travel plans, check the club’s current access details.
Schönenberg offers several ways to shape the focus of your trip: the walk highlights marshland, moraine country and the Sihlsprung; the churches offer insights into architectural history and decorative details; and the Chilbi fair and New Year’s custom provide a glimpse of village events. Consider which of these aspects you would like to make central to your trip, and check the latest relevant information for events and activities.
Discover more destinations: Horgen, Wädenswil, Hirzel, Thalwil, Langnau Am Albis, Adliswil, Richterswil, Kilchberg.
Return to the main travel overview: Horgen.
