Greifensee lies at the heart of the Greifensee protected area—the largest nature reserve in the Canton of Zurich. The Uster district comprises the municipalities around Greifensee; the lake is also the largest lake located entirely within the Canton of Zurich. Its reed beds provide important habitats for around 400 plant species and more than 160 bird species. These few key facts alone show how closely the landscape is connected to protecting its habitats.
Exploring Greifensee
The paths around Greifensee are suitable for hiking, jogging, cycling, wheelchair hiking and inline skating. From the Niederuster boat station, lakeside paths follow the shore towards Greifensee or Riedikon. You can explore the lakeshore on foot, while the reed beds also draw attention to their importance as a habitat.
The Silberweide nature centre offers another way to experience nature. A discovery trail leads past flower meadows, hedges and ponds. From the observation hide, you can watch birds almost unnoticed and undisturbed. The “Nature Lab” exhibition invites you on a journey of discovery into the world of fungi at interactive research stations. Climb, explore and play at the natural adventure playground.
There are also various ways to get out on the water: a scheduled boat operates year-round on Greifensee between Maur and Uster, with round trips offered from spring to autumn. Nostalgic cruises take place aboard the “Greif”. It is Switzerland’s oldest steamship and dates from 1895. If you are planning a specific trip, it is worth checking the current timetable.
Art, industrial history and a castle
The Bechtler Stiftung presents temporary exhibitions twice a year and offers guided tours and an educational programme. Behind the museum building is the freely accessible Zellweger Park, which features important works of international and Swiss contemporary art. Here, you can discover both changing exhibitions and works of art in the park.
The Zürcher Oberland Industrial Heritage Trail is considered Switzerland’s first historical themed trail devoted to industry. It includes 50 sites related to the history of technology, business and society. The 30-kilometre trail starts in Uster and can easily be completed in stages. Its sites offer different perspectives on industrial history, bringing together technology, economic development and social history.
Greifensee Castle offers a different historical perspective. For centuries, it served as a prominent residence for the bailiffs of the imperial city of Zurich. Today, the castle is a place for cultural encounters, continuing education and information. The castle and the historic town of Greifensee can be visited with an expert guide.
The Swiss Non-Commissioned Officers Museum displays uniforms, equipment, vehicles, artillery and horse harnesses relating to Swiss military history in the 19th and 20th centuries. It also recognises the contributions of non-commissioned officers in the militia army. SwissJazzOrama is dedicated to the history of jazz in Switzerland and abroad. Its gallery regularly hosts live events and themed exhibitions.
Traditions and further discoveries
Ustertag is celebrated every year on a Sunday in mid- or late November at Uster’s Reformed Church. Musical performances accompany the ceremony, followed by an aperitif and a traditional risotto meal. The programme combines the formal proceedings with a meal shared together.
You can also explore the area around Mönchaltorf on a half-day adventure trail with a free app and an audio drama. Before setting out, check the latest information about the app and route, as details may change.
Discover more destinations: Dübendorf, Egg, Greifensee, Uster, Schwerzenbach, Fällanden, Maur, Volketswil, Mönchaltorf.
Go to the main travel overview: Zurich.
