Innerthal lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Wägital; the entire lake surface belongs to the municipality. The lakeside circular trail, mountain hikes, and local architectural and traditional history offer different focuses for a stay.
Reservoir and mountain scenery
Lake Wägital is a reservoir in the upper Wägital valley. Its dam was completed in 1924; most of the water stored in the lake is used to generate electricity in winter. When the lake was filled in 1924, the original village of Innerthal was flooded. The village’s history is therefore closely linked to the creation of the reservoir.
Innerthal is a mountain municipality in a basin surrounded by Gross Aubrig, Fluebrig, Mutteristock, and Brünnelistock. Together with the lake, these mountains define the village’s geographical location in the Wägital.
By the lake and on the trails
The circular trail around Lake Wägital is rated moderate and is suitable for families. It follows a paved, lightly trafficked road with a reduced speed limit and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The Hundloch spring, which resembles a grotto, lies along the route.
One hike starts at Lake Wägital in Innerthal. It first follows a road in the direction of Gwürzwald, then continues along a varied natural trail to Schwarzenegg. From there, the imposing limestone walls of the Bockmattli towers come into view.
Mountain tours with different profiles
The SAC normal route to the Bockmattlihütte starts at the post office in Innerthal at an elevation of 906 m. It passes through Schwarzenegg and then heads south along the ridge. The route is rated T1; it is listed as taking 1:30–2 hours, with 620 metres of ascent.
Another SAC option is the ski tour from Innerthal to Bockmattlistock. It is rated S− and takes 2:30–3 hours; 1,030 metres of elevation gain are listed for both the ascent and descent. The times, elevation gains, and activity types clearly distinguish the two tours.
Church, bridge, and tradition
The new Church of St. Catherine was built at its present location in 1924. The small church invites quiet contemplation. Another structure connected with the infrastructure by the lake is the Schrähbach Bridge: south of the Schräh dam, it crosses the Schrähbach in a gentle curve and continues the road around Lake Wägital. The 59-metre-long reinforced-concrete bridge was designed by Swiss engineer and pioneer Robert Maillart.
The Sennenbruderschaft (Dairymen’s Brotherhood) is also part of the village’s history. Founded in 1598, it continues to this day. Its festive highlight is the traditional Sennengemeinde in Innerthal, held every year on the second Sunday in September; the date may vary from year to year.
Getting there and practical planning
A 13 km winding mountain road leads through the Wägital from Siebnen to Innerthal. From the Sihlsee side, the village can be reached via Sattelegg. By public transport, take the SBB train to Siebnen-Wangen and then PostBus route NFB 523. Check the current timetable before travelling.
At Seestrasse 2 in Innerthal, by Lake Wägital, there is a fishing and boat-rental service. Check availability before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Tuggen, Reichenburg, Wangen, Lachen, Vorderthal.
Back to the main travel overview: March.
