Overlooking the Zugersee, Risch-Rotkreuz is a sprawling municipality in central Switzerland. It comprises four villages - Rotkreuz, Risch, Buonas and Holzhäusern, as well as forested areas and agricultural farmland. Rising south of Risch-Rotkreuz is the Rooterberg, while its western boundary is marked by the River Reuss.
Things to do in Risch-Rotkreuz
On the edge of Risch-Rotkreuz is the Golfpark Holzhäusern, which was the first 18-hole public golf course to open in Switzerland. From its greens and fairways, there are picturesque views across the Zugersee and the Rigi massif. Players can stock up on equipment and apparel at Golfers Paradise before refuelling at the Albero Restaurant.
Perched atop a mountain south of Risch-Rotkreuz is the Kapelle Michaelskreuz, a stone-built chapel that offers sweeping panoramas across the Zug Valley. It is located on the Rooterberg, an 840-metre-high peak that lies in the foothills of the Swiss Alps. Several hiking trails radiate from the chapel and the area is popular with stargazers due to its absence of light pollution.
For a closer view of the Zugersee, follow the walking route that leads from Zug to Cham along the northeastern shore of the lake. It combines urban promenades with woodland and meadow trails, as well as reed beds that provide important habitat for birdlife. In the warmer months, you can take a dip in the lake from one of the nearby beaches, such as Brüggli or the Badestelle Choller.
Getting around Risch-Rotkreuz
Risch-Rotkreuz is around 15 minutes’ drive from Lucerne and 30 minutes from Zürich. Zürich Airport is 25 minutes away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Rotkreuz railway station and buses travel through the municipality. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.