Activities and Sights

RAPPERSWIL-JONA
THE CITY OF ROSES
ON LAKE ZURICH
Tourist Information
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Hotel Schwanen
Best Western Plus Hotel Speer
Hotel Hirschen
Jakob – Hotel am Hauptplatz
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Train station
Parking
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Playground
Police
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Castle, Polish museum
Parish church
Lindenhof, Deer park
Capuchin monastery
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Rose garden
Rose garden
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Rose garden for the visually impaired
Town hall
Local history museum
Pier
Boat hire
Nursing home
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Curti house
Wooden bridge to Hurden
Heilighüsli (Holy house)
University
Diners Club Arena
Lido swimming pool
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Knies children’s zoo
Public swimming (lake)
Alte Fabrik, Public library
Kunst(Zeug)Haus (art museum)
Schlosskino (cinema)
Cinema Leuzinger
TABLE OF CONTENTS
City map Old Town Rapperswil
2
City of Roses
4
City of Nature
10
City of Culture
14
Museums
16
Churches & Abbeys
18
Entertainment
20
Markets
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Customs
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Events
26
City of Sports
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Accommodation & Gastronomy
36
Experiences & Excursions
40
Overview map of the region
50
Publishing information
Responsible: Verkehrsverein Rapperswil-Jona, Tourist Information,
Fischmarktplatz 1, 8640 Rapperswil | Print: Rüegg Druck, Eschenbach |
Concept/Graphics: Mediasign GmbH, Rapperswil | Photos: J.-P. Bachmann,
A. Batt, B. Bühler, Ch. Funke, Lakers, M. Rütschi, VVRJ, D. M. Wehrli, J. Wyrsch
Welcome to Rapperswil-Jona. You are in
one of Switzerland's most attractive recreation areas and at the Riviera of the Upper
Lake Zurich with Mediterranean atmosphere
and hospitality. The pleasant alleys and
lively squares invite you to stroll and linger.
The former city of Rapperswil was honoured
for cultivating its cultural heritage by the
Council of Europe, and its historic district
is protected as a national monument.
The unique charm of this small town with
its beautifully preserved buildings and
houses which date back to the Middle
Ages will enchant you as well!
The Tourist Information on Fischmarktplatz
is open 7 days a week and visitors are
welcome. Here one can buy souvenirs of
the City of Roses, receive information on
Rapperswil-Jona and excursion destinations
in the region or book one of the popular
guided tours or group offers. The team
will help you with your requests in various
languages. Come by and commence your
journey of discovery through the City
of Roses on Lake Zurich well informed.
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CITY OF R
4
OSES
House decorated with roses
in Hintergasse, Rapperswil
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CIT Y OF ROSES
Rapperswil-Jona, famous for its many roses,
has an interesting history.
Facts and Figures
Area 22.44 km2
Sea level 407 m above sea level
Highest elevation 544 m above
sea level Eggwald, Wagen
Population 2014 26,343
Rapperswil-Jona comprises of the
two districts Rapperswil and Jona as
well as Kempraten, Lenggis, Busskirch,
Wagen and Bollingen.
Train stations Rapperswil, Jona,
Kempraten, Blumenau
Area Lake Zurich 65 km2
Maximum depth 136 m
Volume 3.3 km3
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Location and Arrival
Rapperswil-Jona can be easily reached
from all directions using various
means of transport and is integrated
into the Zurich Transport Network.
Trains to Zurich run every 15 minutes.
With a zone ticket or a day pass all
public means of transport (trains,
busses and boats) within the network
can be used. Connections to Chur,
Lucerne and St. Gall are very good as
well and Zurich airport can be reached
in 55 minutes.
In addition, the city is connected via
motorway links from all directions. Six
car parks in immediate reach of the Old
Town and further parking spaces are
available throughout the city zone. In
Fischmarktstrasse close to the harbour
there is a parking space for coaches to
drop off the travellers before parking
the coach in Güterstrasse by the train
station.
The City
The region of Rapperswil-Jona has
been inhabited for more than 3600
years already. Its special location at
important historic routes shaped the
history of the city of Rapperswil, which
was founded around 1200 A.D. with
the surrounding precincts of Jona,
Kempraten, Busskirch, Bollingen and
Wagen. After the count's family had
died out, Rapperswil belonged to the
Habsburgs of Austria for some time.
In 1464, Rapperswil formed a protective alliance with the Swiss Confederation. After the invasion of Napoleonic
troops during the French Revolution
in 1798, Rapperswil was separated
from Jona and became part of the
Canton of Linth at that time. The Canton of St. Gallen was created in 1803
and the two civil parishes of Rapperswil
and Jona were apportioned to this
new canton. What had once belonged
together has now been reunited again
since 1 January 2007.
Castle, Deer Park and Lindenhügel
(Linden Hill)
The castle and the church silhouetted
on the lake is the emblematic of the
city and is one of the most important
historical monuments on Lake Zurich.
The view from the Gügeler-Turm
(castle tower) across Rapperswil-Jona
and Lake Zurich is unparalleled. The
Deer Park with about 10 fallow deer
evokes the legend of the founding of
the town. The Rapperswil-Jona tourism
organisation maintains the vivarium and
ensures that the fallow deer are taken
care of humanely and lovingly. The
town's most beautiful vantage point is
the Lindenhof next to the castle, with
a marvellous panoramic view towards
the Zurich uplands and across the
Säntis up to the Glarus Alps.
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CIT Y OF ROSES
Apart from the exciting history there are
many treasures to be discovered.
A pa ra di es
fo r ro se
lo ve rs
Wooden Bridge
Where a footbridge originally existed
across the lake from Rapperswil
hundreds of years ago, a new wooden
bridge from Rapperswil to Hurden was
built in 2001. At 841 metres, it is the
longest wooden bridge in Switzerland.
The Heilig Hüsli (Holy House), the
historic bridge chapel built in 1551, is
the last witness of the former wooden
footbridge. As in previous years, the
new bridge has again become part
of the pilgrims' route and belongs to
the Way of St. James which connects
Eastern and Central Europe with the
city of Santiago de Compostela in
Northern Spain.
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Rose Gardens
The coat of arms of Rapperswil-Jona
has always been graced by two roses.
The tourism association therefore, set
its sights in 1958 on ‘More roses in the
City of Roses so that the City of Roses
really does become a City of Roses.’
Now, more than 20,000 rose bushes
of approximately 600 varieties bloom
and fill the air with their fragrance from
May to October in the various rose
gardens. One is next to the vineyard
at the Capuchin monastery, one by the
Einsiedlerhaus, the rose garden for
the visually impaired is on the Schanz
and the Mainau garden in a small
alley. The Mainau garden was planted
single-handed by the Count of Mainau
(1909 – 2004) which is the flower
island on Lake Constance.
City of Weddings
Rapperswil is predestined for weddings
with that certain something since the
City of Roses stands for romance, love
and beauty due to its many roses. The
gorgeous backdrop of the Old Town
is perfectly suited for unique wedding
pictures. Apart from the many hotels
and restaurants for overnight stays and
aperitifs, there is also a wide range of
halls for the celebration which does
not leave anything more to be desired.
Several special wedding venues, such
as the kleiner Rittersaal in Rapperswil
Castle, the Busskirch church, which
is located directly on the lakeside, or
the Neuhof in the town centre of Jona,
lend themselves for this unforgettable
day. Due to the town's proximity to the
lake, boat tours are particularly suitable
for an aperitif or a banquet. A wedding
in Rapperswil-Jona is memorable.
Shopping
Strolling and shopping are fun in the
numerous shops in Rapperswil-Jona.
In the small shops in the Old Town,
in the design shops, the tradition-rich
specialist stores or in the shopping
centres, specialities, artisan craftwork
and everyday articles are on offer.
Various specialist stores in the Old
Town are also open on Sunday.
A wide range of shopping facilities
has developed in the city centre
of Jona as well; for example in the
building project Eisenhof, Stadttor,
Jonaport and Allmeind. Groceries and
everyday articles, gastronomy as well
as services are offered here.
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CITY OF N
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ATURE
Idyllic spot in
the Schlosspark Meienberg, Jona
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CIT Y OF NATURE
Rapperswil-Jona – A paradies
for nature lovers.
Island Ufnau
The island of Ufnau, which lies on
communal grounds of Freienbach SZ
and belongs to the Einsiedeln monastery can be reached every day (April
to October) on scheduled boat services
(Zürichsee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft,
ZSG). A guest jetty for private boats
is available as well. The restaurant
‘Zu den zwei Raben’ is open every day,
only closing on Tuesdays in bad weather. The tour of the island is designed
to fit the needs of the disabled and is
therefore an experience even for people confined to wheelchairs. Enjoy the
sight of the idyllic shoreland or wander
from the meadow to the vineyard and
to the island churches.
Visiting the St. Martinskapelle (St. Martin's Chapel) and the Church of
St. Peter and Paul is worthwhile a trip.
www.ufnau.ch
En jo y
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Island Lützelau
The holiday and leisure island of
Lützelau can be reached by private
boat or by Inseltaxi (island water
taxi) (for more information, contact
Tourist Information). What’s more, the
Lütz-Shuttle which is operated by the
island wardens with a regular timetable, is available for the ferry ride. This
island is particularly popular with local
residents to escape everyday stress
for a few hours and enjoy the beautiful
sunset. The restaurant on the island
which is also run by the island wardens
and their team offers delicious fried
fish, meat and vegetable from the grill,
many salads and desserts. The Tourist
Information has special events for
groups, such as exciting guided tours
of the island or the Lützelau Inselplausch (island fun) on offer.
www.insel-luetzelau.ch
Shoreland
The beautiful landscape on the
shores of Lake Zurich, which are freely
accessible for the most part, surrounded by gentle hills, offers numerous
opportunities for exercising outdoors.
A 12 km beach path runs along the
shore of Lake Zurich as far as Schmerikon. Numerous kinds of lake birds
can be observed near the shore.
An extensive network of footpaths
and hiking trails as well as bicycle
paths away from the main roads invite
you to explore the immediate environs.
The Frauenwinkel is an impressive
moor landscape between Rapperswil
and Pfäffikon. It is the last major
naturally preserved lakeshore on Lake
Zurich and serves as a wintering
ground and roosting place for birds.
Nature Scenes
In the Joner Wald (Jona woods), the
Vita-Parcours, the Finnenbahn trail
and various hiking paths invite you to
pursue physical activity. The nature trail
Schauplatz Natur explains the wonders
of nature to a interested observer at
eight information stations. A nature reserve of national importance is located
in the Joner Allmeind. Walk through the
middle of the Höcklistein wine country
and enjoy the splendid views. Wine
tasting sessions can be organised for
interested groups.
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CITY OF C
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ULTURE
Local history museum with
the bronze connecting piece ‘Janus’, Rapperswil
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
Visitors interested in culture can dwell
in one of the numerous museums.
Stadtmuseum
The local history museum, which
opened in 2012, with its new building
‘Janus’, the Stadtpalais (city palace)
dating back to 1492 and the medieval
tower offers spectacular architecture. A
detailed model located in the entrance
lobby shows Rapperswil around 1780.
One will experience 800 years of city
and cultural history on a walking tour.
www.stadtmuseum-rapperswil-jona.ch
Kunst( Zeug )Haus
The Kunst(Zeug)Haus is a centre of
Swiss contemporary art, focussing on the
collection of Peter and Elisabeth Bosshard,
which is complemented by alternating
temporary exhibitions and a wide variety
of events. The Robinson library is a small
treasure chamber housing about 4,000
literary works on and about Robinson
Crusoe. www.kunstzeughaus.ch
Alte Fabrik
The Gebert Foundation for Culture has
built a platform in the Alte Fabrik to
promote contemporary art communicators. The *KURATOR project with a
national appeal consistently addresses
young, contemporary fine arts and in
particular brings international art to
Rapperswil-Jona. www.alte-fabrik.ch
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Enea Baummuseum
The Enea Baummuseum (tree museum),
set up in a breathtakingly beautiful
75,000 m2 park, opened in 2010. It features a large number of selected trees
from the collection of the Swiss landscape architect Enzo Enea. More than
50 trees from more than 25 species
stand in the museum; some of them are
more than 100 years old. www.enea.ch
Polenmuseum
The Polenmuseum (Polish museum)
which makes its home inside of Rapperswil Castle, provides an insight
into the varied history of the relationship between Poland and Switzerland.
www.muzeum-polskie.org
A rt an d
C ul tu re at
its be st
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
Twelve catholic and reformed church buildings
are located in the town of Rapperswil-Jona.
Capuchin Monastery
About 10 monks still live in the Capuchin Monastery at the Endingerhorn,
with the Antonius Grotto and the
old fortification earthwork. They also
take in guests who would like to
experience life in a monastery for
themselves. In addition, the monastery
keeps a monastery shop which sells
various products, and a small café, the
Kapuzinertisch (Capuchins’ table).
St. John Catholic Parish Church
The neogotic, Catholic Parish Church
of St. John, with two renaissance altars
from the predecessor building and a
rich church treasury, dates back to
1885 and is located on the castle hill
next to the castle. The Liebfrauenkapelle in late Gothic style is situated
right next to it.
Wurmsbach Abbey
The Wurmsbach Abbey, built in 1259,
is located in Bollingen and houses a
boarding school for girls managed by
Cistercians nuns using modern methods. If you want to learn more about
the convent you can book a tour.
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Parish Church Maria Himmelfahrt
The parish church Maria Himmelfahrt
cannot be overlooked on the church
hill in Jona. A Roman temple is said
to have originally stood on the hill
(Frohbühl).
Busskirch Church
Busskirch is one of the oldest houses
of worship by the upper lake. The
remains of Roman walls can be found
below the floor of the church which
can be visited after making an advance
reservation with the church.
Heilighüsli
The Brückenkapelle (bridge chapel)
(dated from 1551), which is protected
as a site of historic interest, is the last
remnant of the former wooden bridge
still standing today. Many pilgrims pray
in the chapel on their way to Einsiedeln
(Canton of Schwyz).
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
The diverse entertainment programme
provides something for everyone.
Kreuz
The Kreuz Kultur und Gastlichkeit
(culture and hospitality) in Jona
offers a diverse cultural programme
with cabaret, theatrical performances,
concerts and much more. Often national stars such as Ursus & Nadeschkin
or Duo Edelmais perform at the Kreuz.
www.kreuz-jona.ch
ZAK
ZAK stands for ‘Zentrum aktueller
Kultur’ (centre of current culture)
and is a concert venue next to the train
station of Jona. With its wide variety
of events, the ZAK appeals to a wide
audience. For example you can enjoy
a reading after a hip-hop concert
or a cinema show after a rock record
release party. www.zak-jona.ch
Kellerbühne Grünfels
The Kellerbühne Grünfels is the
house of culture in Jona. The stage
for music, cabaret and theatre presents
choice morsels from the Swiss and
foreign performing arts scene.
www.gruenfels.ch
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Alte Fabrik
The in 2014 newly opened culture
and literature centre in the heart of
Rapperswil-Jona presents a diverse
cultural programme encompassing
dance, theatre, music, fine arts and
literature but also a lively programme
of children’s’ events. It’s a meeting
place for everyone. www.alte-fabrik.ch
Schloss Cinema and Cinema Leuzinger
With its Schloss cinema, Rapperswil-Jona has one of the oldest cinemas
in Switzerland. Willy Leuzinger, the
founder of both cinemas, showed the
first ‘moving pictures’ in 1906 even
before the first movie theatre was opened in the city of Zurich. Today special
showings, such as the women's cinema,
are very popular. www.kinoevent.ch
Rittersaal
The acoustically impressive Rittersaal
(knights’ hall) in Rapperswil Castle
lends itself for various events such as
the classical concert series of chamber
music Musik im Schloss, the concerts
of the Trigger Concert Big Band or the
gala concert of the Swiss Folk Music
Festival. www.ogrj.ch
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
The markets in the Old Town are actively
promoted as a part of local customs.
Friday Market
The small, unhurried Friday market
with about 25 market stalls is characterised by fresh produce, mostly produced locally. The range of products
offered is varied and includes fresh
fish, vegetables, fruit, salads, meat,
pasta, cheese, Mediterranean products
such as olives, ginger and exotic fruits.
Every time the garden centres and
the rose seller offer huge choices of
flowers, plants and seedlings. The
market, which is organised by the
Rapperswil-Jona tourism association,
celebrated its 40th birthday in 2013.
Location Hauptplatz, Rapperswil
Opening hours
Every Friday, 07:30 – 11:00
(March to November)
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Autumn Market
The Autumn Market is traditionally
held in the Old Town of Rapperswil on
the Wednesday following the Swiss
national holiday Buss- und Bettag
(Day of Prayer and Repentance). The
numerous market stalls offer visitors a
variety of food stalls, clothes, jewellery
and all kinds of goods.
A children’s flea market is usually held
for the children which gives them the
opportunity to swap or sell old toys.
Location Hauptplatz, Seestrasse,
Seequai, Fischmarktstrasse and
Fischmarktplatz
Opening hours 09:00 – 20:00.
Flea market starting at 12:00.
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Christkindlimärt
The Christmas atmosphere on the
Hauptplatz, in Marktgasse, on the
Fischmarktplatz and at the Seequai is
how the Christkindlimärt presents itself
in the heart of the historic quarter of
Rapperswil. With more than 200 market
huts and market stalls, the Christkindlimärt of Rapperswil-Jona is one of the
largest and loveliest Christmas markets
in Switzerland. The wide variety of
goods offered ranges from various
culinary delicacies, jewellery and items
for decoration to handmade goods
of all sorts. The beautifully decorated
market huts, the idyllic Christmas oasis
on the Fischmarktplatz and the many
lights illuminating the historic district
provide a cosy and homely atmosphere
for lingering, observing and admiring.
The Christkindlimärt offers something
for every visitor; for example, a merrygo-round or a donkey ride is available
for children.
The various performances on stage at
the Fischmarktplatz provide for musical
highlights.
Location Old Town, Rapperswil
Opening hours From the 3rd to the
4th weekend of Advent. Closed on
Monday. From Tuesday on the market
is then only held in the harbour area.
www.christkindlimaert.ch
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
The tradition-rich customs are of great
importance to Rapperswil-Jona.
Carnival
The first highlight is the Rapperswil
Carnival on the weekend before
Schmutziger Donnerstag with its
big, colourful parade on Sunday. It
continues in Jona on Schmutziger
Donnerstag Thursday with the Schübeldonnschtig and the popular Schübligbankett (banquet). At 15:30 in the
afternoon, the carnival parade starts
in the town centre of Jona. Carnival
activities in Rapperswil-Jona conclude with the Eis-Zwei-Geissebei on
Shrove Tuesday. At precisely 15:15,
the windows of the banqueting hall of
town hall open up and a fanfare rings
out. The children shout ‘Eis-ZweiGeissebei!’, and sausages, bread rolls
and Biberli (sweets) rain down from
the windows onto the children in the
square.
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Frühlings-Chilbi (Spring Funfair)
Every year in spring, the funfair is in
full swing on the PARA car park in
Rapperswil-Jona. In addition to the
annual attractions of bumper cars, a
mirror labyrinth or a merry-go-round,
various delicious treats are offered
at the funfair. If you have good aim,
you can try your luck at tin toppling,
a shooting gallery or duck fishing.
Samichlaus
There are three Chlaus organisations
in Rapperswil-Jona. The Etzelchläuse
are part of the Rapperswil-Jona
tourism association and in charge of
the town area of Rapperswil. The
annual Arrival of Chlaus takes place
on the 5th December on the Hauptplatz.
The Jona Klaus-Committee and the
Chlaus group of the Lenggis-Kempraten local association celebrate their
Arrival of Chlaus on the first Advent
Sunday at the Schulhaus Dorf or at
the Paradies Lenggis schoolhouse.
All Chlaus groups make family visits as
well, making sure that children’s eyes
are shining in the Christmas season,
and helping to keep the Samichlaus
tradition alive.
Sternsingen (Carol Singing)
On the last Sunday in Advent, precisely
on the sixth chime of the bell, at
18:00, the procession of Rapperswiler
Sternsinger (carol singers) departs
from the Capuchin monastery through
the dark alleys of the historic district
to the Hauptplatz. The long procession with small and big angels, the
announcing angel, astrologers, Mary
and Joseph, the shepherds and the
three holy kings together with sheep,
horses, donkeys and camels – which
are provided by Knies children's zoo
on each occasion – makes its way to
the illuminated steps of the castle to
perform the 30-minute nativity play by
Pius Rickenmann.
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
The numerous events have long
become a tradition.
Seenachtfest
The Seenachtfest (Lakeside Festival),
which takes place every 3 years, is an
unparalleled spectator magnet which
captivates and delights about 75,000
spectators each time. Guests and locals
experience great days and enchanting
evenings. A public festival which has
become a tradition. The Seenachtfest
is the largest and most traditional event
in Rapperswil-Jona. It represents the
original city festival. The unique location
on the shore of the lake of the small
medieval town forms an impressive
backdrop. The fact that this event was
first held already in 1924, and that it
is also a festival of local associations
under the direction of the Rapperswil-Jona tourism association, is not so
well known.
La Tavolata
‘Together at one table’ is the slogan of
this culinary event. A single long table
across the alleys of the old part of the
town of Rapperswil awaits diners.
Residents, business people and restaurateurs of the old town hold a festival of
culinary delicacies – the LA TAVOLATA.
A festival with plenty of charm, conviviality and great encounters. Various
delicacies from professional kitchens
of individual Rapperswil restaurateurs
as well as home-made creations await
the visitors. Visitors to this event will
not only be spoilt culinarily but also
with classy entertainment provided by
street artists and musicians. The La
Tavolata takes place in years when the
Seenachtfest in Rapperswil is not held.
Since the event is held in the open air,
there is always an alternative date.
Timeframe August (every 3 years)
www.seenachtfest.ch
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Timeframe August
blues’n’jazz
The blues’n’jazz rapperswil-jona is the
splash of colour in the Swiss festival
agenda thanks to the most beautiful
event location in the country, the City of
Roses on Lake Zurich, and also thanks
to a musical programme which has
been qualitatively formidable for years.
On four stages against the impressive
backdrop of the historic old town, famous musicians from all over the world
play blues and jazz. The stage at the
Kapuzinerzipfel is the meeting place
of friends of quieter tones, while the
friends of New Orleans jazz meet at the
Curtiplatz, and blues-rock formations
and ladies with powerful voices play at
the Hauptplatz. The stars are guests on
the stage at the Fischmarktplatz.
Ironman 70.3 Switzerland
At the BMC IRONMAN 70.3 Switzerland in Rapperswil-Jona, about
3,000 athletes from more than 30
nations compete with each other. The
challenge is to complete a 1.9 kilometre
swim in crystal-clear water, a 2 x
45 kilometre cycle race along the gorgeous shore of the lake and the lush
pastures of the Alpine foothills, and a
half-marathon (2 rounds) through parts
of the city of Rapperswil-Jona. The
highlight of the route is the famousnotorious ‘Stairway to Heaven’ stairs
which leads from the Hauptplatz up
to Rapperswil Castle.
Timeframe June
www.ironman.com
Timeframe June
www.bluesnjazz.ch
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CIT Y OF CULTURE
Rapperswil-Jona offers the perfect event
for everyone.
slowUp Lake Zurich
Once a year, the streets from
Schmerikon to Meilen are reserved for
cyclists, inline skaters, pram pushers, skateboarders, wheelchair users
and acrobats riding penny farthings.
Moving forward using your own muscle
power is at the centre in this festival
of encounters. The slowUp route goes
along the shore of the lake for 28 km
where visitors can enjoy food and
refreshments at the numerous booths
or participate in activities.
Timeframe September
www.slowup.ch
Swiss Folk Music Festival
At the Swiss Folk Music Festival,
musical groups from various regions of
Switzerland perform in cosy restaurants in the old town of Rapperswil,
presenting their guests with the finest
of folk music. The event is off to a start
each time with the gala concert in the
beautiful and acoustically impressive
Rittersaal (knights' hall) in Rapperswil
Castle. The Jodlermesse (yodelling
fair), which takes place late Saturday
afternoon in the Catholic Parish Church
of St. John, is an integral part of each
programme as well.
Timeframe March /April
www.volksmusik-rapperswil.ch
With own
muscle
strength
ahead
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Event Agenda
PERIOD
EVE NT
DESCR I PTION
February
Carnival
Carnival parades, Eis-Zwei-Geissebei, Schüblig banquet
March
Opening night Circus
Knie
Start of the tour of the Swiss
National Circus Knie
March – Nov.
Friday market
Weekly fresh produce market
March /April
Swiss Folk Music
Festival
Concerts by folk music groups in
restaurants
April
Spring festival
Goods market and Folk Festival in
the centre of Jona
June
IRONMAN 70.3
Triathlon for top athletes, children
and groups
June
blues’n’jazz
Blues and jazz concerts by
international stars in the Old Town
August
Seenachtfest
(every 3 years) (Lakeside Festival)
City festival with huge fireworks,
festival stands and framework
programme
August
(alternative to
Seenachtfest)
La Tavolata
Culinary event, one long table
through the Old Town
September
Autumn market
Market stalls with a wide range of
goods
September
slowUp Lake Zurich
Locomotion under one’s own steam
along the right shore of Lake Zurich
October
Castle Run
Running event in the Old City
November /
December
Samichlaus parades
Parades in Jona, Rapperswil and
Lenggis-Kempraten
December
Christkindlimärt
Christmas market full of atmosphere
in the Old City
December
Sternsingen
(carol singing)
Performance of the nativity play on
the last Advent Sunday
All events can be found in the event agenda on www.rapperswil-jona.ch
29
CIT Y OF S
30
PORTS
Popular pedalos
on Lake Zurich
31
CIT Y OF SPORTS
Due to the varied offers, the sports-mad
are spoilt for choice.
Rapperswil-Jona Lakers
The Diners Club Arena, one of the most
modern sports stadiums in Switzerland, stands where originally the LIDO
became the iconic site of ice hockey
enthusiasts. The Rapperswil-Jona
Lakers play their home matches in
front of up to 6,500 spectators.
www.lakers.ch
Minigolf
The outdoor minigolf course, which
was completed in summer 2005, is
located directly at the Strandweg
behind the Diners Club Arena. Just
the right place to play an exciting
game of minigolf or championships.
Indoor-Golf
Golf enthusiasts get their money's
worth on the latest generation of
five Full Swing golf simulators. In the
state-of-the-art indoor golf course
with training and play factor, up to four
players per simulator can compete
against each other without long treks
and waiting times.
www.golf.eventnow-rappi.ch
32
Bowling and Billiard
Apart from bowling alleys, Jona
Bowling also offers billiard, darts,
air hockey, a bar and snacks.
The ideal bad weather programme
with fun factor!
www.jonabowling.ch
Boccia
Next to the sports facilities in Grünfeld
two alleys for a round of Boccia are
available. In the Ristorante Pallino,
which belongs to the facility, the
guests are spoilt with Italian wine and
delicious specialities by Francesco.
Pedalo
Pedalos (pedal boats), rowing boats
and small motor boats can be rented
directly at the Rapperswil harbour
to get to the island of Lützelau, for
example, or to just spend some time
on the lake.
www.hensa-schifffahrt.ch
33
CIT Y OF SPORTS
Rapperswil-Jona has numerous and generous sports and leisure facilities available.
Swimming
The Lido outdoor swimming pool is
located directly behind the diners Club
Arena and, in addition to its 50 m basin,
a children’s pool, a 3 m diving board
and a large slide, it also has a restaurant with a garden terrace.
The regionally renowned bathing beach
Stampf (top photo), with its barbecue
areas, slide, children’s paddling pool,
diving platform and playground is
located near the Strandweg and invites
the whole family to stay awhile.
The Schlossbadi/Stadtbadi (lower
photo), which can be accessed free
of charge, with its about 100-year-old
wooden house with lounges on its roof,
offers the visitor a beautiful view of
the castle.
The three indoor pools at the primary
schools of Schachen, Hanfländer and
Paradies-Lenggis invite anyone for a
swim.
Wellness
Rapperswil-Jona can be justly proud
of its wellness offers. Find inner peace,
recreation and new vitality in the Auravita or relax during a soothing massage
in the Setareh, one of Rapperswil’s
oldest cellar-vaults. Many other possibilities await your visit.
34
Sports Facilities
Ice, water and ball sports play an
important role here and in the Lido
there is a national water sports centre
for canoeing and rowing. The Grünfeld
sports facility provides infrastructures
for several different types of sports
such as five grass playing fields and
an artificial turf court. Track and field
athletes have a 400 m synthetic
material facility available to them at
the Grünfeld. Likewise, there are
facilities for high jump, long jump
and pole vault as well as for shot put,
discus and javelin. Also, there are six
sports grounds available for playing
beach volleyball. Four indoor tennis
courts, all-weather outdoor courts and
two squash courts round off the sports
facilities.
Sports Event / Training Camp
Are you planning a sports event,
a training camp, a sports weekend or
similar? The Verkehrsverein Rapperswil-Jona will prepare a diversified,
individual sports programme for you in
collaboration with the town, local clubs
as well as other sports and tourism
service providers in the region. In addition, an attractive tourism framework
programme will ensure that your stay
on Upper Lake Zurich will be rich in
variety. The Tourist Information will be
happy to advise you.
35
ACCOMOD
GASTRONO
36
DATION &
OMY
Wine connoisseurs in the Vinobar
il Sottoscala, Rapperswil
37
ACCOMMODATION & GASTRONOMY
Gourmets get their money’s worth
in Rapperswil-Jona.
Cuisine
More than 80 restaurants in Rapperswil-Jona provide the finest culinary
delights. The culinary treats offered in
pubs, fine dining restaurants and cosy
cafés range from A as in Asian to T
as in tapas to Z as in Züriseeknusperli.
For more information on the various
restaurants, please contact the Tourist
Information.
Wine
Try the fine Zürisee (Lake Zurich) wines
from the region. You can participate in
guided wine tasting tours for groups on
the Schlosshügel (castle hill) or in the
surrounding vineyards and, while sampling exquisite wines, learn interesting
facts from the history of wine-growing.
The Tourist Information will be happy to
provide you with information about the
latest offers, where you can also find a
small selection of domestic wines.
Camping
Seasonal and overnight tent-only
campsites are available at the Stampf
lido as well as on the island of Lützelau.
The closest campsites for motor homes
or caravans are located in Goldingen /
Canton of St. Gallen, Walenstadt /Canton of St. Gallen, Euthal /Canton
of Schwyz, or Zurich.
38
Accommodation
HOTEL SCHWANEN ****
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 220 85 00
www.schwanen.ch
BEST WESTERN PLUS HOTEL
SPEER ****
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 220 89 00
www.hotel-speer.ch
HOTEL HIRSCHEN ***
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 220 61 80
www.hirschen-rapperswil.ch
JAKOB – HOTEL
AM HAUPTPLATZ ***
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 220 00 50
www.jakob-hotel.ch
KREUZ
KULTUR UND GASTLICHKEIT **
8645 Jona
Phone 055 225 53 53
www.kreuz-jona.ch
GASTHOF FROHBERG
8645 Jona
Phone 055 210 72 27
www.frohberg.ch
LANDGASTHOF
ZUM ZIMMERMANN
8645 Jona
Phone 055 225 37 37
www.hotelzimmermann.ch
HOTEL RESTAURANT KRONE
KEMPRATEN
8640 Kempraten
Phone 055 210 90 00
www.krone-kempraten.ch
VILLA AURUM
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 220 72 82
www. villaaurum.ch
JUGENDHERBERGE
BUSSKIRCH
8645 Jona
Phone 055 210 99 27
www.youthhostel.ch/jona
BED & BREAKFAST OASEE
8715 Bollingen
Phone 055 212 65 45
www.oasee.ch
BED & BREAKFAST SEA VIEW
8645 Jona
Phone 055 210 60 66
FERIENWOHNUNG PFISTER –
Eisenbahnstrasse and Greithstrasse
8640 Rapperswil
Phone 055 284 11 10/
079 366 55 11
www.happyholiday.ch/cu24
HOTEL RESTAURANT RÖSSLI *** 8640 Hurden
Phone 055 416 21 21
www.hotel-restaurant-roessli.ch
GASTHOF SEEFELD
8640 Hurden
Phone 055 410 34 20
www.gasthofseefeld.ch
HOTEL SEEDAMM PLAZA ****
8808 Pfäffikon / SZ
Phone 055 417 17 17
www.seedamm-plaza.ch
HOTEL MARINA LACHEN ****
8853 Lachen
Phone 055 451 73 73
www.marinalachen.ch
HOTEL LAUFENBACH AG ***
8630 Rüti ZH
Phone 055 251 01 00
www.laufenbach.ch
BED & BREAKFAST
««IM RÖSELIGARTEN»» ****
8633 Wolfhausen
Phone 055 243 46 46
www.roeseligarten.ch
More accommodation on www.zuerich.com
39
E XPERIEN
EXCURSIO
40
CES &
NS
Mountain bikers above Alp Egg
with a beautiful view over Lake Zurich
41
E XPERIENCES & E XCURSIONS
On a well-developed net of hiking and
cycling paths the landscape can be explored.
Hiking
Shorter or longer hiking tours up the Etzel, in the direction of Ricken, into
the Zurich uplands and the Pfannenstiel, and many other areas can be started
from Rapperswil-Jona. On a hiking tour on the Lake Zurich trail you can enjoy
stunning views from everywhere overlooking Lake Zurich. www.wanderland.ch
Cycling
The region around Lake Zurich is extremely well suited for pedalling. Whether
around the upper lake, into the Linth region or into the Zurich uplands, anyone
will find a suitable route. Those who prefer to go over hill and dale will find
optimally prepared mountain biking routes. www.veloland.ch
42
Inline Skating
The Linth region is ideally suited for extensive inline skating tours. On tarred
paths one can skate around the Benkner Büchel in the Linth lowlands or to the
airfield in Schänis. Also the Lake Greifen is perfect for skating excursions. The
good connections for public transport to Rapperswil-Jona allow a pleasant way
back. www.skatingland.ch
Ti ck et s
av ai la bl e in
th e To ur is t
In fo rm at io n
Boat Trips
From April to October, several ships operate daily to and from Rapperswil.
Various round trips to Zurich, Schmerikon, to the Au peninsula or the Island
of Ufnau can be experienced. In winter, one can enjoy the big boat trip from
Zurich to Rapperswil and back once a day. www.zsg.ch
43
E XPERIENCES & E XCURSIONS
Rapperswil-Jona and the region offer play
and fun for the whole family.
Jucker Farm
The Bächlihof in Jona and the Juckerhof in Seegräben (both adventure farms)
are among other things, a highlight during the pumpkin season. Regional and
seasonal products can be purchased in the farm shop. Children can let off steam
on the playground or pick their own fruit. www.juckerfarm.ch
A
Knies Children's Zoo
Knie children's zoo with its 400 animals is a fascinating experience for young
and old. Highlights are elephant rides and camel rides, the sea lion show, and
B
the big adventure playground. The children's zoo offers adventure walks which
provide a look behind the scenes of the zoo. www.knieskinderzoo.ch
44
Fu n an d
ac tio n in th e
re gi on
Atzmännig
The Atzmännig is an ideal and very popular excursion destination for the whole
family. The rope park provides fun and thrills at lofty heights with varying degrees
of difficulty. In the summer, one can go tobogganing, sliding, trampolining, bull
riding and much more! www.atzmaennig.ch
C
Alpamare
The Alpamare in Pfäffikon, Canton of Schwyz, on the other side of the lake dam,
with various adventure pools and water slides is the biggest covered water park
D
in Europe and only a 5 minute distance by car from Rapperswil-Jona. Apart from
various wellness offers such as massages or a sauna, there is also a restaurant
for the visitors. www.alpamare.ch
45
E XPERIENCES & E XCURSIONS
A wide variety of opportunities for excursions
is available in the region of Lake Zurich.
Dinosaur museum
Plunge into a bygone world, find out more about how these strange dinosaurs,
the rulers of the earth at the time, may have lived. There is much about their lives
that we have not discovered yet, but each new fossil that is discovered and joint
research sheds more light on the obscure past. www.sauriermuseum.ch
E
Einsiedeln Abbey
The abbey's magnificent baroque design is one of the most beautiful in the
world and is an important place of pilgrimage on the Way of St. James. Its origins
F
date back to St. Meinrad. The beautiful scenery invites you to go hiking, biking
and do other sports. Einsiedeln also offers sailors on the Lake Sihl a great experience. www.einsiedeln-tourismus.ch
46
Sattel-Hochstuckli (SZ)
The journey commences at the valley station on the revolving gondola up to
Mostelberg. A jumping and bouncing paradise awaits children there. If you like
action, then you can treat yourself to a toboggan run or venture out onto the
longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Europe. www.sattel-hockstuckli.ch
G
Amden / Weesen
Amden is considered the sun terrace overlooking Lake Walen. It is an ideal
starting point for mountain tours and hikes. In summer, it is worthwhile going
H
on an excursion on foot or by boat from Weesen to Betlis and Quinten. Also
in winter Amden has a lot to offer for winter sports enthusiasts.
www.amden-weesen.ch
47
E XPERIENCES & E XCURSIONS
Whether unspoilt landscapes or vibrant cities,
everyone will find their favourite place to be.
Braunwald
The car-free Alpine mountain village of Braunwald is situated at 1254 m above
sea level. It can be quickly reached with the cable railway from Linthal. Braunwald
is also the location of the first walkable fairy tale trail in Switzerland, the Zwäärg
Baartli Trail and the Märlihotel. www.braunwald.ch
I
Zürichsee Casino
When you hear the call ‘Faites vos jeux!’ and ‘Rien ne va plus!’, you are in
Pfäffikon, Canton of Schwyz, in one of the four stunningly furnished Swiss
J
casinos. Only 5 minutes away from Rapperswil-Jona, entertainment at the
10 gambling tables and 158 slot machines is guaranteed. www.swisscasinos.ch
48
Zurich
Zurich offers an exceptional mix of adventure, indulgence, nature and culture.
With more than 50 museums and more than 100 galleries, the liveliest nightlife of
Switzerland, boundless shopping pleasure, culinary highlights, numerous events
and green oases in the middle of the city Zurich lives up to everyone’s wishes.
www.zuerich.com
K
Further Excursion Destinations
Adrenaline rush at Flumserberg (SG)
www.flumserberg.ch
Alpine panorama at Hoch-Ybrig (SZ)
www.hoch-ybrig.ch
Bergwerk Käpfnach (Mine), Horgen (ZH)
www.bergwerk-kaepfnach.ch
Elm in Glarnerland (GL)
www.elm.ch
Vineyards along Lake Zurich (ZH)
www.zuerichseewein.ch
Ritterhaus Bubikon (ZH)
www.ritterhaus.ch
Boat trips on Lake Walen (SG)
www.walenseeschiff.ch
Wine-growing museum on Lake Zurich (ZH)
www.weinbaumuseum.ch
49
I
G
H
F
C
D
A
J
B
A
E
A
Bächlihof Jona and
Juckerhof Seegräben
B
Knies children’s zoo
Atzmännig
Alpamare
Dinosaur museum
C
K
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
Einsiedeln monastery
Sattel-Hochstuckli
Amden / Weesen
Braunwald
Casino Zürichsee
Zurich
Discover Rapperswil-Jona
A picturesque medieval Old Town awaits you: hospitable restaurants, a castle,
lively alleys, rose gardens and the lakeside promenade. Rapperswil-Jona has
much to offer with regard to guided tours. The visitors await short, intermediate
and big city tours, optionally combined with the castle tower, castle bunker or
the wooden bridge to learn more about the history of Rapperswil-Jona and to
see the beautiful buildings and squares.
Those who are interested in a specific topic are well served with one of the
themed city tours. Whether strolling from restaurant to restaurant on a culinary
walking tour and learning interesting facts about the city or hearing about the
four rose gardens, everyone can find their suitable city tour for a team event,
a business trip, a birthday, etc.
The team at the Tourist Information attends to your wishes and needs
to organise the perfect event. Those who are travelling alone can take part
in an official guided walking tour.
All relevant information can be found on www.vvrj.ch.
Supported by:
Verkehrsverein Rapperswil-Jona
Tourist Information
Fischmarktplatz 1
CH-8640 Rapperswil
Phone: +41 (0)55 220 57 57
Fax:
+41 (0)55 220 57 50
[email protected] · www.vvrj.ch