Hergiswil is a municipality in the canton of Nidwalden. The area lies at the foot of Mount Pilatus and on the northern shore of Lake Lucerne, combining alpine scenery with lakeside landscapes. Glasi Hergiswil offers a special insight into local craftsmanship: In the “Shaped by Fire” museum, the exhibition traces the history of glass from ancient Egypt, where it originated, through the centuries to the production hall. There, you can watch glassmakers use glowing-hot molten glass to make vases, drinking glasses, carafes and other objects. Under the guidance of a professional, you can also blow your own glass sphere. A visit thus combines cultural history with an insight into glassmaking.
Lakeshore, trails and water activities
Around Hergiswil, you will find a range of trails: relatively flat paths along the lakeshore, woodland and meadow paths, and steeper climbs into the foothills of Mount Pilatus. For time by the water, visit Badi Hergiswil, a lakeside swimming area directly on Lake Lucerne, with a raft and two- and five-metre diving platforms. You can reach the bathing area by S-Bahn to the “Hergiswil Matt” stop. Alternatively, the Mattbus runs from Hergiswil station to the Hergiswil Mattli stop; from there, it is a five-minute walk. Check the timetable before travelling.
Tauchsport Nidwalden also offers direct access to the lake: its base is opposite Lake Lucerne. Divers can change there and enter the water on the other side of the road to explore the underwater world. If you would rather stay on land, the Schönenboden fire pit in Hergiswil has a barbecue area with views of Lake Lucerne.
Play, exercise and a treasure hunt
In Hergiswil Matt, the pump track is next to the Matt playground. It is suitable for bicycles, kickboards and skateboards and covers around 1,800 square metres. The facility includes a 40-metre beginner loop and a 200-metre track. At Glasi Park, children can enjoy marble games, marble runs and a large sandbox. These offer different ways to fit some exercise or play into your time in Hergiswil.
The Hergiswil Detective Trail is a treasure hunt through Hergiswil, between Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne. It starts at sin6 (Tourist Info), Seestrasse 24, 6052 Hergiswil, and ends at Seehotel PILATUS, Seestrasse 34, 6052 Hergiswil. These endpoints give you clear directions for the trail’s start and finish.
Routes on Mount Pilatus and into the mountains
The “Behind Mount Pilatus” route leads from Hergiswil NW via Alpgschwänd and Fräkmüntegg to Unterlauelen. You can start by taking the Zentralbahn or a boat to Hergiswil; for the return journey, take the Postbus from the “Eigenthal, Talboden” stop to Lucerne. Check timetables and seasonal route conditions before setting out. The ride on the Alpgschwänd panoramic railway takes seven minutes; operating frequency and opening dates may change, so it is worth checking the latest information here too.
Chapel and mountain festival at Klimsenhorn
The Klimsenhorn Chapel stands near Klimsenhorn on the way to Mount Pilatus and was built in 1860/61. It can be reached via mountain trails from Pilatus Kulm or from the Alpgschwänd restaurant; conditions on mountain trails can vary. The annual Bergchilbi at Klimsenhorn is a recurring tradition, celebrated with a festive mountain service on the Sunday after 15 August. The specific arrangements may vary, so it is advisable to check the details in advance.
The place name also points to a long history: Hergiswil was first mentioned as “Hergenswile” in a Habsburg document around 1306.
Discover more destinations: Dallenwil, EnnetbĂĽrgen, Beckenried, BĂĽrgenstock, BĂĽren, Emmetten, Ennetmoos, Wolfenschiessen.
Return to the main travel overview: Nidwalden.
