Top 20 Natural Monuments around Gurtnellen
Best natural monuments around Gurtnellen are found in the canton of Uri, Switzerland, an area characterized by its mountainous terrain and diverse natural features. The region offers a variety of landscapes, from serene mountain lakes to rugged gorges and prominent peaks. Gurtnellen provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of its natural environment.
Best natural monuments around Gurtnellen
- The most popular natural monument is Source of the Rhine – Lai da Tuma, a lake considered the source of the Rhine. This location offers hiking paths along the stream and views of high moor areas.
- Another must-see spot is Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke) in Schöllenen Gorge, a historical bridge located within the rugged Schöllenen Gorge. This site is known for its historical significance and the legend surrounding its construction.
- Visitors also love Schöllen Gorge, a rugged gorge through which the Reuss river flows. It features a complex of bridges and has historically been a notable obstacle on the Gotthard Pass route.
- Gurtnellen is known for its lakes, gorges, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including mountain lakes like Lake Arni and areas with panoramic vistas such as Sunnig Grat.
- The natural monuments around Gurtnellen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and over 400 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Source of the Rhine – Lai da Tuma
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Schöllen Gorge
Highlight • Bridge
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Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke) in Schöllenen Gorge
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Lake Oberalp
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You can also take a cable car from the Oberalp Pass to the Schneehüenerstock, which is over 2,600 meters high, and explore various hiking trails there.
And those who aren't so good on their feet can bring their fishing rod and fish in the lake or simply enjoy coffee and cake on a terrace.
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Arnisee (Lake Arni)
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Popular around Gurtnellen
On the hunt for crystals and alpine lake magic – Gotthard Crystal Trek
On the hunt for crystals and alpine lake magic – Gotthard Crystal Trek
Hiking around Gurtnellen
MTB Trails around Gurtnellen
Road Cycling Routes around Gurtnellen
Cycling around Gurtnellen
Gravel biking around Gurtnellen
Running Trails around Gurtnellen
Mountain Hikes around Gurtnellen
Tips from the Community
Simply outstanding!!! If you arrive up here by bike from the north side, you have almost reached Andermatt and then this natural spectacle, no one can take that away from you ;) beautiful
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Oh yes: the spray from the Reuss provides you with a welcome cooling down when cycling uphill 💦
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A wild tangle of bridges: the old Devil's Bridge for pedestrians and cyclists, the bridge for cars and a bridge for the train. Interesting to look at.
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When the lake is still, the mountain range is reflected in it. Beautiful.
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The rugged Schöllenen Gorge, through which the Reuss flows deep below, has always been a difficult obstacle to overcome on the Gotthard Pass route. It was probably the Walsers who tried to open up the mule track to the south by building daring bridges around 1200. The attempt to build a bridge over the Reuss failed several times over the centuries - until, according to legend, a pact was made with the devil.
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The Oberalpsee, located at the top of the pass between Sedrun and Andermatt, offers a peaceful retreat for amateur fishermen, who can obtain licenses at the Piz Calmot restaurant. Enthusiasts can enjoy fishing moments at sunrise in a peaceful atmosphere. For hikers, a walk to the western end of the lake reveals a small dam used for electricity generation. For a complete experience, the hike can continue to Nätschen, followed by a return by train, offering a lovely way to explore this picturesque mountain region.
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Nice little lake that you can easily walk around.
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Beautiful small mountain lake, easily accessible by cable car from Intschi.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Gurtnellen?
The Gurtnellen region offers a diverse range of natural monuments, including serene mountain lakes like Source of the Rhine – Lai da Tuma and Lake Oberalp, as well as dramatic gorges such as Schöllen Gorge. You can also find historical bridges like the Devil's Bridge, and areas with panoramic viewpoints like Sunnig Grat.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the Gurtnellen area?
Yes, several natural monuments around Gurtnellen are suitable for families. Arnisee (Lake Arni) is easily accessible via cable car and offers leisurely walks, picnic areas, and restaurants. Lake Oberalp also features parking and is considered family-friendly, with opportunities for fishing and enjoying coffee and cake. The Devil's Bridge in Schöllenen Gorge is another family-friendly spot, offering historical insights.
What historical natural monuments can I visit near Gurtnellen?
The Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke) in Schöllenen Gorge is a significant historical natural monument. It's known for its legend involving the devil and its role as a crucial crossing point on the Gotthard Pass route. Nearby, you can also find the Suvorov Monument, commemorating a battle from 1799.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments?
The region around Gurtnellen offers numerous outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with trails leading to viewpoints like Sunnig Grat from Lake Arni, or along the stream from the Source of the Rhine – Lai da Tuma. Road cycling and running are also popular, with routes available through the Urner Reuss Valley. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking, road cycling, and running guides for Gurtnellen.
Are there any natural monuments accessible by public transport or cable car?
Yes, Arnisee (Lake Arni) is easily accessible via two cable cars from Amsteg and Intschi. Lake Oberalp is also reachable, and from the Oberalp Pass, you can take a cable car to the Schneehüenerstock for further exploration.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Gurtnellen?
The Gurtnellen region is beautiful year-round. During warmer months, hiking and cycling are ideal. In winter, areas like Arnisee (Lake Arni) transform into a magical setting for winter hiking and snowshoeing on circular trails. The Fellital valley offers a unique experience where you can encounter three seasons in a single day, making it interesting across different times of the year.
Can I find educational nature trails in the Gurtnellen area?
Yes, the Geissberg area above Gurtnellen features an exciting nature trail. This trail provides insights into avalanche protection and the local flora and fauna, offering an engaging way to learn about the region's natural environment.
What unique geological features or activities are associated with Gurtnellen's natural heritage?
Gurtnellen is known for the traditional activity of 'Strahlnen,' which is the searching for crystals, particularly rock crystal, in the Alps. This highlights a unique geological feature and a historical interaction with the natural environment, as the region has historically been a source of highly prized crystals.
Where can I experience diverse ecosystems and wildlife near Gurtnellen?
The Fellital valley is an excellent place to experience diverse ecosystems. It is one of the oldest game reserves and offers a unique hiking experience with varied mountain views. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars to appreciate the rich flora and fauna in this secluded natural area.
Are there any natural monuments that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the Sunnig Grat, accessible via hiking trails from Lake Arni, offers wonderful panoramic views of the Urner Reusstal and Lake Arni. Source of the Rhine – Lai da Tuma and Lake Oberalp are also noted for their scenic vistas.
What is special about the Urner Reuss Valley?
The Urner Reuss Valley combines natural beauty with historical and engineering interest. Visitors can experience the technical railway achievements of the Gotthard mountain line on foot, offering scenic walks alongside the railway and through the valley.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Gurtnellen?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning landscapes and the opportunities for outdoor activities. Many appreciate the serene beauty of the mountain lakes, the dramatic views from gorges like Schöllen Gorge, and the historical significance of sites like the Devil's Bridge. The accessibility of places like Arnisee via cable car also makes these natural wonders enjoyable for a wide range of visitors.
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