Interview: Architekt Mario Botta entwirft das Mineralbad & Spa Rigi ...

St. Niklausen. Photo Franz Auf der Maur
All of the little towns and villages
along the route are rich in
history and old architecture. Ranging
from gothic chapels to baroque
churches, from simple stone towers
to ornate interiors, there is
plenty to see. The typical Swiss
inns and restaurants along the way
offer hearty food and warm hospitality.
All of the hiking trails
are excellently marked with the
distinctive yellow signposts. Feel
the contemplative nature and spiritual
vibe of this region, as you
walk on the old pilgrimage path.
Natural highlights include views of
the Melchaa river gorge and Lake
Sarnen. The famed Alpine peaks
of Mount Pilatus, the Stanserhorn
and the Glaubenberg are never far
away and often come into great
view. Immerse yourself in the authentic
atmosphere of Central
Switzerland and feel in touch with
the slower pace of the region. Special
mention goes to the following
venues, which all warrant a visit:
• The birthplace and residence
of Niklaus von Flüe (1417–1487).
Von Flüe remains the area’s most
famous former resident and lived
for many years in the hamlet of
Flüeli-Ranft. As a farmer, politician,
judge and officer in the
Swiss army, he left his family in
1467 to live as a hermit in nature.
Known as Brother Klaus, local
legend has it that he lived there
for nineteen years without food
except for the Eucharist. His
counsel is said to have prevented
a civil war between the cantons
who met at the Diet of Stans in
1481. The advice he gave them
remains a secret. Revered during
his lifetime, he was canonised
in 1947 and is Switzerland’s only
saint.
• The wooden bridge over the Melchaa
gorge at Flüeli-Ranft, built
in 1943 by the Swiss army and as
such Europe’s highest covered
bridge.
• The Pax Montana Hotel – the storied
art nouveau hotel built on a
terraced location. The building
features elegant stucco ceilings,
rich paintings and interior wooden
panels. It has been listed as
a historic site and was carefully
restored. Consider having a rest
here, for either a meal or just
some drinks.
Sachseln/Flüeli-ranft tourismus
Flüeliplatz 2, 6073 Flüeli-Ranft
Tel. +41 (0)41 661 0 661
info@flueliranft.ch
www.flueliranft.ch
Bordmagazin 77