ViaGottardo, Stage 6/20

The hike through the foreland of Luzern passes places of note on the former «Hochstrasse», namely the Mariazell Pilgrimage Chapel, St. Martin's Church at Kirchbühl and the town of Sempach. The most important monument along the way is the Rotbachbrücke (bridge) at Rothenburg.

From Sursee railway station, the hike initially leads through the town and then out into the open countryside. The trail crosses gentle hills and short stretches of woodland on its way to Eich. Near Kirchbühl, it reaches its highest point at around 580 m. Here, the Church of St. Martin stands on a hill above Lake Sempach.

The route then descends to Sempach and leads directly to the lakeshore. Soon, the lakeside scenery once again gives way to meadows, fields and small settlements. One section follows the Grosse Aa before the long, mostly pleasantly wide hiking trail continues via Rothenburg towards Emmen. Despite the modest differences in elevation, stamina is required for the roughly 30 kilometres.

Towards the end, the surroundings become increasingly urban. From Emmen-Dorf, the trail reaches the Reuss and follows it upstream to Luzern. Passing the Jesuit Church, the hike of just over seven hours ends near Bahnhofquai, a few steps from Lake Lucerne.