Hüttwilen combines the protected lake landscape of the Seebachtal with archaeological traces from the pile-dwelling era to Roman times. Anyone looking for a holiday apartment in Hüttwilen can plan their trip around these different themes: nature and landscape on the one hand, and the history of several settlement periods on the other. Hüttwilen lies north of Frauenfeld and comprises the villages of Hüttwilen, Nussbaumen and Uerschhausen.

Protected Lake Landscape and Habitats

The lake landscape formed by the three Ice Age lakes—Nussbaumersee, Hüttwilersee and Hasensee—is a landscape of national importance (BLN). The area is also included in the Federal Inventory of Amphibian Spawning Areas of National Importance (IANB). The protected area is home to very healthy populations of the highly endangered European tree frog (Hyla arborea).

The natural and cultural landscape of the Seebachtal has been protected since 1966. Since 1994, the Seebachtal Foundation has worked to preserve or restore the original landscape. Hüttwilen lies in the Seebachtal on the southern slope of the Seerücken; the Seerücken offers scenic views. The lakes are therefore part of the landscape, as is the view of the ridge.

Trails, Cycling Routes and the Lakeside Swimming Area

A footpath runs around Hüttwilersee and Nussbaumersee, following field tracks, wooden boardwalks and narrow footpaths in places. Some sections of the lakeshore path are closed in spring and summer to protect ground-nesting birds and young deer. The exact timing can vary from year to year; check the route before your visit.

A large part of the Seebachtal’s trails can be walked or travelled by people with mobility impairments or using a wheelchair. Exceptions are the path north of Nussbaumersee, the section along the Seegraben and the path through the moorland forest. Cyclists can enjoy a circular route through the Seebachtal that goes around all three lakes. However, cycling is prohibited on the paths through the moorland forest, along the Seegraben and across the boardwalks.

Swimming is possible at the Hüttwilersee lakeside swimming area. It has a diving tower and a playground; it is worth checking the current facilities before your visit. If you would rather explore the landscape on foot, the circular path around two of the lakes and the three-sided cycling route offer different ways to experience the area.

Archaeology from the Pile-Dwelling Era to Roman Times

Several pile-dwelling settlements succeeded one another on the small island in Nussbaumersee, from the Pfyn culture through to the Early Bronze Age. The archaeological site in the lake is part of the Seebachtal history trail. Finds include several crucibles and a copper axe, evidence of early metalworking.

On the neighbouring Horn peninsula, a large settlement dating from the very end of the Bronze Age lies alongside a Corded Ware culture pit house. The settlement is dated to 870–850 BC and comprised around 100 log buildings. Another historical landmark is the Roman settlement of Stutheien, a Roman villa dating from the end of the 2nd century AD.

The area’s economic history extends beyond individual archaeological sites. Historically, Hüttwilen was associated with winegrowing, arable farming and fruit growing, as well as livestock and dairy farming. Embroidery was practised here around 1900, and peat was extracted until the 20th century. The archaeological evidence and these traditional activities offer different ways to explore the history of the place.

Getting There, Guided Tours and Places to Eat

The Seebachtal is about a 15-minute walk from the Hüttwilen Stutheien, Nussbaumen and Buch PostBus stops. PostBus services run between Frauenfeld and Hüttwilen and between Frauenfeld and Diessenhofen every hour, and in some cases every half hour. Check the current timetable before travelling.

The Seebachtal Foundation offers guided tours around the lakes for clubs, school classes and nature groups, introducing the area’s history and diverse habitats. A guided tour in the Seebachtal lasts about two hours and can be tailored to individual needs. For a wine tasting in an authentic wine cellar, try Vinothek Haag in Hüttwilen; you may need to contact them in advance. The municipality’s restaurants make an effort to offer as many local products as possible.

Discover more destinations: Eschenz, Berlingen, Steckborn, Wagenhausen, Homburg, Müllheim Dorf, Mammern, Pfyn

Go to the main travel overview: Steckborn.