Schwyzer Höhenweg, Stage 5/5

The ridge hike offers spectacular views of Central Switzerland's lake and mountain scenery. With the Mythen at your back and the Einsiedeln monastery as your destination, you hike through the Ibergeregg nature reserve. In its moorlands, rare orchid varieties and butterflies can be observed.

From the Holzegg bus stop, the trail initially climbs across open meadows to Stäglerenegg. It then becomes steeper, reaching Furggelenstock after around four kilometres. At approximately 1,650 m, the cross-topped summit is the highest point of the hike. Here begins the long ridge towards Einsiedeln.

Mostly following the white-red-white waymarked mountain trail, the route continues steadily up and down through open pastures and stretches of woodland. Repeated counter-climbs demand stamina and sure-footedness as far as the Ufem Tritt viewpoint. The route remains on marked trails throughout.

In the final third, the trail becomes easier and descends significantly. Einsiedeln draws closer at Friherrenberg, and shortly before the town, the view opens up towards the abbey. After 19 kilometres and a good six hours, the hike ends directly at the railway station. Around 860 metres of ascent and 1,400 metres of descent make this an undertaking requiring endurance despite the lower-lying destination.