Those choosing Hombrechtikon for a stay can plan around a range of interests: longer hikes, the landscape around Lützelsee, or architectural and local history. The trails vary in length and theme; there are also cultural sites in the village and in Feldbach. When choosing your accommodation, consider whether more time on foot, a circular route around the lake or historic stops should shape your stay.
Hiking routes with different highlights
The western route is 10.7 kilometres long and takes about three hours to walk. It passes geological features, a poet’s memorial site and deep peatland. The hike thus combines a longer distance with several different themes along the way.
The eastern route covers 7.5 kilometres and takes about two hours to walk. It is therefore 3.2 kilometres shorter and takes around an hour less than the western route, based on the approximate times given. Along the way, it explores the origins of industrialisation and the heights of Hochwacht. This comparison helps with planning your day: both routes offer a clear time frame, but focus on different themes.
The northern route offers another perspective. It leads up to Bochslen, at 530 metres, Hombrechtikon’s local mountain. There is a fire pit and panoramic views of the lake, Etzel and the Alpine range. The views offer a contrast to the geological, literary and industrial history themes of the other two routes.
Lützelsee: moorland and circular trail
The Lützelsee moorland is one of six moorland landscapes of national importance in the Canton of Zurich. Lützelsee lies between Lake Zurich and the Zurich Oberland and includes moors and small lakes. Nature conservation and the area’s landscape of small lakes are among its defining features.
In the nature reserve at Lützelsee, storks can be seen at their many nests around the lake in spring and summer. If you prefer a shorter walk, consider the three-kilometre circular trail around Lützelsee. It runs mostly along a flat gravel path and is therefore considerably shorter than the two hiking routes in Hombrechtikon.
The lido at Lützelsee has a raft with a diving board and a paddling pool for children. Feldbach lido offers views of the mountains and Rapperswil Castle. If you plan to visit a lido, check the latest operating information in advance.
Churches and historic buildings
The Reformed Church of Hombrechtikon is a prominent Baroque building with a slender tower and an important local landmark. Its doors are open during the day, inviting visitors to look around and spend some time there. The history of the present church is clearly documented: in 1757, master builder Jakob Grubenmann was commissioned to extend and remodel it. The foundation stone was laid on 12 May 1758, and the church was consecrated on 23 September 1759.
The Menzihaus, with its small adjoining house and vaulted cellar, offers another glimpse into architectural history. Built in 1793, it is considered an especially valuable and characteristic farmhouse of the Zurich Oberland. Its renovation in 2014 received the Swiss Heritage Award in 2015, recognising the restoration’s measured approach to renewal.
Feldbach is home to the late Neoclassical Löwenpavillon. Its sculptural decoration includes a reclining lion and four eagle sculptures; since 1995, the pavilion and its sculptural decoration have been protected objects of cantonal importance. The Dorfmuseum Stricklerhuus, meanwhile, focuses on changing exhibitions on social, natural history and historical topics. The museum is housed in a gently renovated farmhouse dating from the 17th century.
Feldbach and early settlement
Feldbach also offers a glimpse into the distant past: Neolithic and Early Bronze Age lakeshore settlements are located there. The CH-SG-01 site comprises the large, shallow bay between Feldbach in the canton of Zurich and Kempraten in the canton of St. Gallen. Its favourable location meant it had been settled since the early 4th millennium BC.
The place name also points to a long history. The name form “hunbrestinchon” dates from 1194; the name Hombrechtikon is explained as deriving from the Alemannic clan founder Humbracht and meaning “Humbracht’s farm”.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Männedorf, Zumikon, Herrliberg, Zollikon, Stäfa, Küsnacht, Obermeilen, Meilen.
Go to the main travel overview: Meilen.
