ViaSurprise, Stage 1/6

Shortly after setting out, the first highlights appear in the shape of Arlesheim Cathedral and the Ermitage, the most significant English-style landscape park in Switzerland. The trail continues to Seewen through the unrivalled landscape of the Gampen Plateau and its tower vantage point.

From Dornach-Arlesheim railway station, the route initially leads to Arlesheim. Standing directly on the route is the cathedral, consecrated in 1681 and the village’s landmark. The hiking trail then follows the village stream for a short distance and skirts the Mittlerer Weiher before the houses gradually give way to forest.

The longer ascent to the Gempen plateau now begins. The yellow-marked hiking trail passes through extensive stretches of forest and across open meadows. Just over halfway along, the highest point is reached near Eichenberg at around 760 metres. A little later, the 28-metre-high Gempenturm stands just a few steps from the route. The trail then leads to Gempen, where village scenery reappears between the forest sections.

Beyond the village, forest alternates with open farmland. The trail now descends for the most part, reaching Seewen after a total of 14 kilometres. Around four hours should be allowed for the route, which includes approximately 600 metres of ascent. The Seewen SO, Herrenmatt bus stop is just under 200 metres from the finishing point.