Augusta Raurica in the open air
Augusta Raurica is a striking starting point for exploring Basel-Land: the open-air site is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Roman city comprises more than 20 sights and is considered Switzerland’s largest archaeological park. Those interested in Roman history will find more than a single site here: it is a sprawling archaeological park. The open grounds offer a distinctive experience alongside the region’s castles, gardens and landscapes.
Castles, views and traces of history
Wildenstein Castle is one of two surviving hilltop castles in Basel-Landschaft. Its surroundings include a nature reserve known for its ancient oaks. An information trail around the castle, accessible at all times, offers insights into the past. Here, nature and history come together right around the building itself.
At Farnsburg Castle ruins, historical landmarks are paired with far-reaching views: from the imposing shield wall, the view extends to the Vosges, the Black Forest and the Alps. Since summer 2024, an audio tour at the ruins has featured nine audio stories about key locations at the castle and its approximately 700-year history. Check whether the tour is currently available before your visit. The sculptures at Schönthal Monastery offer a different cultural and historical perspective: they are a rare example of ecclesiastical culture from the mid-12th century in Switzerland.
Gardens with distinct character
At the foot of Birseck Castle lies the Ermitage in Arlesheim, Switzerland’s largest English landscape garden. Artificially created ponds and streams are part of its design; the garden is freely accessible all year round. The Ermitage can be enjoyed as a garden destination in its own right, while Ebenrain Castle brings together architecture and gardens in a different way.
Ebenrain Castle is a country house surrounded by gardens built in 1774/75. From an art-historical perspective, it is now considered the most important late Baroque country estate in Basel-Landschaft and the surrounding area. The grounds and park are open to the public; check for temporary restrictions before visiting. The castle also serves as a venue for concerts and art exhibitions. If you are interested in a particular programme, it is worth checking the relevant dates.
Experience the landscape in every season
A variety of landscapes and cultural regions come together in a small area of Basel-Landschaft; views stretch as far as the Alps, the Black Forest and the Vosges. The cantonal nature reserves are home to valuable natural features such as natural oak forests, limestone beech forests, species-rich grasslands and rocky habitats. In spring, Basel-Landschaft is known for its spectacular Bluescht, or cherry blossom. Alongside forests and rocky landscapes, seasonal impressions are also a highlight.
The Wasserfallen region offers scenic high-altitude trails with views extending to the Alps. In summer, there are thrilling scooter rides; in winter, you can enjoy sledging and guided snowshoe hikes. This contrast highlights the seasonal variety of activities, without requiring you to commit to just one way of exploring the landscape. The Wasserfallen Forest Ropes Park is located right next to the mountain station of the Reigoldswil–Wasserfallen cable car on the Jura mountain range above Reigoldswil.
Trails and practical information
The hike to Farnsburg Castle ruins is listed as 4.40 kilometres long and taking 1.5 hours. These details may change if the route changes; check the latest route information before setting out. Another way to experience the landscape from the saddle is the Basel-Landschaft Vineyard Route. Its character is defined by idyllic vineyards and lovely views of the Jura landscape and the Black Forest. You can ride it by e-bike, bicycle or gravel bike; check the conditions and permitted access points in advance.
The lower station of the Reigoldswil–Wasserfallen cable car can be reached by bus No. 70 from Liestal to the Reigoldswil Dorfplatz stop. Check the latest timetable before travelling. Another distinction can help you find your way around the canton: Basel-Landschaft consists of five districts, and Liestal is the capital. The tourist offering divides Basel-Landschaft into the regions of Arlesheim, Liestal, Laufen, Sissach and Tafeljura, Waldenburg, and Wasserfallen.
Regional products and culture for every interest
Farm shops in Basel-Landschaft sell regional products directly from their producers. Depending on the season, these include Basel-Landschaft cherries, aromatic damsons and truffles. Alongside castles, gardens and trails, they add a culinary connection to the region to your visit, although not all products are available year-round.
The Museum.BL is another cultural highlight: it is a lively thematic museum for children and adults, and guided tours can be booked. Those interested in the different facets of Basel-Landschaft will find a museum that explicitly caters to both age groups, in addition to archaeological sites and historic buildings. You can choose which discoveries to combine according to your interests.
Discover more destinations: Arlesheim, Basel-Stadt, Waldenburg, Sissach, Laufen, Liestal, St. Gallen, Valais.
View the overall travel guide: Switzerland.
