Backed by the 1,897-metre-high peak of the Stanserhorn, Stansstad is a lakeside town south of Lucerne. It lies in the picturesque Nidwalden Valley near the canton capital of Stans, with traces of human settlement in the area dating back to at least the 2nd century BC.
Things to do in Stansstad
Dominating the waterfront of Standsstad is the Schnitzturm, a heritage-listed stone tower that was originally constructed in the early 14th century. Together with a wall of wooden pillars, it served a defensive role until 1332 when Lucerne joined the Old Swiss Confederacy. During the warmer months, you can climb to the top of the tower for sweeping views across Lake Lucerne.
One of Standsstad’s most famous landmarks is the Fürigen Fortress, which was built by the military during World War II as part of the Swiss Réduit. After being abandoned in 1987, it was opened to the public as part of the Nidwalden Museum. The tunnels and rooms of the fortress are furnished as they would have appeared in the 1940s and exhibit documents detailing Switzerland’s military position.
Also forming part of the Nidwalden Museum is the Salt Magazine, which was built in the early 18th century. From April to October each year, it houses changing exhibitions dedicated to the area’s cultural heritage. The Salt Magazine is located adjacent to the base station of the Stanserhorn-Bahn, a mountain cable car railway that connects to a nearby peak.
Getting around Stansstad
Standsstad is around 10 minutes’ drive from Lucerne and 45 minutes from Zurich. Zurich Airport is just under an hour away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Standsstad railway station and buses also serve the town. The centre of Standsstad is compact enough to explore on foot.