Waldstätterweg, Stage 2/7

Via ladders on the Riviera - past orchards to Oberwilen and via the narrow molasse folds with ladders that at one time afforded the only overland link to Weggis. Through the Chestenenweid nature reserve via Weggis, Hertenstein and the Haldihof fruit farm to Küssnacht.

The hike begins at the Vitznau stop, directly beside Lake Lucerne. Before long, the path leaves the shore and climbs out of the village. After a short opening stretch on an easy hiking trail, the route becomes a mountain trail and ascends more steeply. Near Dossen, after a little over three kilometres, it reaches its highest point at around 780 m.

From there, open meadows, pastures and stretches of woodland characterise the long traverse towards Greppen. The route now follows yellow-waymarked hiking trails once again, accumulating a total of around 800 metres of ascent over a succession of climbs and descents. Along the way, a barbecue site and later the farm café offer opportunities for a break before the route continues through Greppen to Küssnacht.

The destination draws closer through the built-up area. Shortly before the end, the Baroque parish church of St Peter and Paul stands directly beside the route. After 19 kilometres and just under six hours, the hike ends at the Küssnacht am Rigi stop.