Exploring Leimbach and Manegg

From the factory canal to the Manegg ruins, this hike on the edge of the city leads through former industrial areas, residential neighbourhoods and woodland, revealing surprising contrasts between Zurich and its rural surroundings.

From Zürich Leimbach railway station, the route initially leads to the factory canal of the former Manegg spinning mill. Between residential areas and open meadows, traces of the former industrial district are still visible, while new buildings provide a striking contrast. Many of the paths on this circular route are not signposted as hiking trails.

The path then climbs into the forest on the Albis ridge. At around 600 m, the Manegg ruins also mark the highest point of the route. The remains of the hilltop castle stand on a spur above Leimbach. After the ascent, the route descends once more towards the houses in the valley.

Passing Rebenweg, the route continues to the emergency water fountain and the Reformed Church of Leimbach. Between older houses and the Sonnenhalde development, the interplay between town and countryside continues. The final section reaches the rural hamlet of Mittelleimbach; the roughly two-hour tour ends at the nearby Zürich, Mittelleimbach stop.