A breathtaking panoramic dream hike from Morschach to Sisikon enchants every nature lover and photographer. Because the leisurely hike has a lot to offer.
Text and pictures by Marc Gottwald
Summary hike Morschach to Sisikon
- – Breathtaking panoramic views and perfect photo motifs are guaranteed on this hike
- – The last section of the trail to Sisikon is a steep forest trail. In spring and autumn it can be very wet and slippery.
- – In summer you can swim in Sisikon.
- – The hike is recommended between February and November, as long as the trail is snow-free and not too wet.
Duration: approx. 2.5h; Condition: medium; Route: easy-medium
Start of the hike to Sisikon at Axenstein
Morschach can be reached very easily from Brunnen by public transport. This is recommended because the hike ends at another place (Sisikon). But there is also plenty of parking for cars.
We walk for about 10 minutes to the Axenstein viewpoint. Although Morschach has almost been forgotten by tourists compared to other places, it is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. At the latest when your gaze wanders over Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps at the Axenstein viewpoint, you will agree with me.
Morschach was once a luxury resort
The history of Morschach as a holiday resort began in 1869. Many famous guests, including Queen Victoria from England, called Morschach one of the most beautiful places in the world. Hence, even Winston Churchill visited Morschach. A funicular railway and two luxury hotels were built near Axenstein to bring tourists here. While remains of the funicular bridge are still there, the hotels were unfortunately demolished in 1947 and 1967 respectively. What would tourism look like today with this view?
At the same time, however, the Swiss Holiday Park was built in 1967, which is now an attractive holiday destination in Morschach, especially for families.
Breathtaking viewx from Axenfels
The Axenfels viewpoint in Morschach offers therefore probably one of the most beautiful views in Switzerland. The seemingly endless Lake Lucerne, the scattered settlements on the slopes such as Seelisberg opposite or the Rütli, the point where Switzerland was founded, can all be seen. You can also see the imposing mountains such as Niederbauen Chulm, the Gitschen or Brunnistock. The place is also perfect to recharge your batteries and relax.
Now we head back into the village, past the Swiss Holiday Park in the direction of Sisikon.
Morschach a historically important place
The many churches and chapels in Morschach are striking, because Morschach is a historically important place. Before the Axenstrasse was built along Lake Lucerne in 1864 and the Gotthard railway steamed, Morschach was on the pilgrims’ and mule track over the Gotthard for around 700 years. If you wish, you can visit churches and chapels on this hike. The Lady Chapel in particular is very popular among the visitors.
You will also pass the Lourdes Grotto, which is located in the village, and the Franz Xaver Chapel, which you will find about 10 minutes after Morschach on the way towards Sisikon.
The most popular photo motif on the Sisikon hike
Now comes the most strenuous part of the hike, an ascent of around 150 metres in altitude over a short distance. However, since the view here is also fantastically beautiful and provides templates for perfect photos, it is worth taking your time.
On Instagram, you can see more and more see this place. Since different angles can be captured, variety is of course guaranteed.
At the top, a picnic bench with table awaits you. Of course, it’s a great way to enjoy lunch. But honestly, a few hundred metres further on there are almost better options because of the magical view.
Covered by glaciers – traces still visible today
Around 20,000 years ago, the area around Morschach was covered by huge masses of ice from the Reuss glacier. When it retreated due to global warming, the glacier deposited boulders. These are striking stones foreign to the area. The largest in this area is the Druidenstein (Druid Stone) directly above Axenfels, although you can see many more in the meadows on the hike.
Another impressive boulder stands at the Tannen viewpoint above the farm. Then you march down to Sisikon. It must be said that this section should not be walked on, especially in winter and when the ground is wet, because the path can be very slippery.
When you arrive in Sisikon, head towards the boat station. Here you have great opportunities to take a wonderful bath and relax. Furthermore, photographers also have the chance to visit some very photogenic spots.
From Sisikon, a train takes you back in the direction of Brunnen. Or if you want you can take a steam boat back to Lucerne.