Those who want to explore cultural history and landscapes in Bubikon will find some notable starting points: the Ritterhaus, the church and Lake Egelsee. The Ritterhaus focuses on the history of the Order of St John and the house; Lake Egelsee is known for its moorland lake, nature conservation areas and leisure activities. Bubikon lies in the Zurich Oberland, on the watershed between the Glatt and Lake Zurich. When planning your visit, it is worth keeping the different themes separate: explore cultural history at the Ritterhaus and the church, while Lake Egelsee and the Heart Route are all about landscapes and outdoor activities.
The Ritterhaus and traces of history
The Ritterhaus Bubikon is one of the best-preserved commanderies of the Order of St John, also known as the Order of Malta, in Europe. Its permanent exhibition provides information about the history of the order and the house; individual exhibition elements may change. Public guided tours take place regularly. Check the dates before your visit.
The historical herb garden is also divided into four periods: Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Early Modern Period and the present day. Garden tours explore the cultural history of herbs; this offer depends on the museum programme. Around 220 finds have been on display at the Ritterhaus since 1947. The different ways of exploring the subject—exhibition, guided tour and garden—each offer a different perspective on the same historical theme.
The foundations of Bubikon Church date back to the 12th century. The Romanesque chapel, dating from 1192, is the oldest part of the church's historic site. The current municipal coat of arms also has historical roots: it matches the coat of arms used by the Bubikon commandery until 1527.
Lake Egelsee and the landscape
Lake Egelsee is a moorland lake surrounded by nature conservation areas. The Bubikon Landscape Trail starts at the Egelsee lido and features eight information panels about the flora, fauna, landscape history and land use around the lake. The panels offer different perspectives on the landscape, from its habitats to how it is used.
The Egelsee lido has a beach volleyball court, a table tennis table and fitness equipment. The outdoor swimming area is open from 1 May to 30 September; check the details before your trip. The wider drumlin landscape of the Zurich Oberland is home to around 40 species of dragonfly. Its wet meadows and moors provide habitats for many orchids, butterflies and birds. Lake Lützelsee is also part of this regional landscape: in 1996, the lake and adjoining areas in the municipalities of Bubikon, Gossau, Grüningen, Hombrechtikon and Stäfa were designated a moorland landscape of national importance.
Cycling, golf and practical information
The Zurich Oberland stage of the Heart Route runs from Rapperswil through Bubikon to Wattwil and follows the signposted Veloland route 99. It is suitable for cycling or e-biking. Check for current diversions before setting off. If you would rather play golf than go for a bike ride, Swiss Golf Bubikon has a challenging 9-hole course that offers a test for players of all levels. Numerous water hazards and bunkers call for tactical play; the course offers views of the Alps and the Bachtel.
The Ritterhaus is a five-minute walk from Bubikon railway station; alternatively, you can take the bus to the “Ritterhaus” stop. Check connections before your trip. Hof Brachland offers guided tours, tastings and special events; check dates in advance. Tipis are also available to rent there; check availability directly.
For a stay focused on history, the Ritterhaus and the church are ideal; if you are more interested in landscapes and activities, consider Lake Egelsee, the Landscape Trail and the Heart Route. The season, museum programme and current route conditions can help you choose the right places to visit for your trip.
Discover more destinations: Wolfhausen, GrĂĽningen, Gossau, DĂĽrnten, Wetzikon, Hinwil, Fischenthal, Wald.
Back to the higher-level travel overview: Hinwil.
