Stansstad lies at the narrow passage between the Kreuzrichter and Lake Alpnach, between BĂĽrgenberg and Pilatus. Cultural history, natural landscapes and paths by the water shape the options for a stay: you can focus on historic buildings, plan a hike or explore lakeside and moorland scenery.
History between the Sust and Schnitzturm
The Sust recalls the transport of goods through the town. It is first documented in 1538 as a building used for the short-term storage of goods in transit. The present building was commissioned by Niklaus Purtschert in 1799/1800. The first documented use of the Sust and the construction period of the present building are therefore two different historical dates. The Stansstad Cultural Commission usually organizes four art exhibitions a year at the Sust; check the exhibition calendar for the current programme.
The Schnitzturm is Stansstad’s landmark. It was built in the mid-13th century as part of a small castle complex and served as a watchtower to control the harbour entrance and the lake route to Alpnach. Today, the former defensive tower is an observation tower right on Lake Lucerne. Check the current access information before your visit.
Fürigen Fortress also brings the region’s military history to life. It was built in 1941/42 as one of several fortifications in the Nidwalden and Obwalden area for the Swiss National Redoubt strategy. Original equipment from the 1940s gives an impression of the preparations made at the time for a possible attack during the Second World War. The fortress has been open to visitors as a museum since 1991; check the latest opening information before your visit.
Lakeshores and natural landscapes
Stansstaderried is designated a fen of national importance. Together with Klosterwald, it forms an important amphibian spawning area. At Garnhänke, a revitalized lakeshore, expanded reed beds and an enlarged shallow-water zone are part of the landscape. These natural features can also be experienced on the circular trail around Lake Alpnach, which passes through nature reserves with reed-fringed bays and information boards.
There are several different places to enjoy a stay by the water. The publicly accessible bathing area at General-Guisan-Quai on Lake Lucerne is also known as Harissen Park; the quay is a five-minute cycle from Stansstad railway station. The lido is right by the lake, next to the Schnitzturm and the boat landing. It offers access to the lake and a large outdoor pool. Operating conditions may change, so check the latest information in advance.
Hiking trails and other activities
The easy “Around Lake Alpnach” circular trail is 9.07 kilometres long. Stansstad railway station or the Stansstad boat station can be used as the starting and finishing point. From Alpnachstad, take the Zentralbahn back to Stansstad. If you are looking for a different kind of trail, the 6.02-kilometre “From the Lake to the Resort” hike is classified as moderate. It starts in Stansstad and ends at Bürgenstock Resort. Along the way, it passes the Schnitzturm and the entrance to Fürigen Fortress. The fortress’s 200-metre-long cave system is now a museum. Check the conditions on each route before setting out.
The BĂĽrgenberg Remembrance Trails consist of eleven stations. An important wheelchair-accessible route runs from Stansstad to Kehrsiten, or in the opposite direction. As conditions on individual trails and at stations may change, check the latest route information in advance. For a trip on two wheels, there is also a flat cycle route from Stansstad to Kehrsiten along Lake Lucerne. In Stansstad Bay, Segelschule Stansstad GmbH offers sailing lessons; check course availability before your trip.
Planning your stay
Stansstad can be reached by train or boat. Check the timetables for your travel dates. For a guided introduction to the town, the “The Pearl on Lake Lucerne” village tour is available. It also covers the military events during the French invasion of 1798; check current dates and booking details in advance.
The hikes differ in both length and difficulty: the circular trail around Lake Alpnach is classified as easy, while the hike to BĂĽrgenstock Resort is moderate. This makes it easy to plan your day around the trails and themes you would actually like to experience.
Discover more destinations: EnnetbĂĽrgen, Hergiswil, Dallenwil, Beckenried, Ennetmoos, Oberdorf, Stans, Emmetten
Go to the main travel overview: Nidwalden.
