Glarus Travel Guide

Discover the true beauty of Glarus with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local cultures, transportation options and more.


Introduction to Glarus

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Glarus is a hidden gem in Eastern Switzerland that offers awe-inspiring mountain views, stunning natural attractions, and a rich cultural heritage. Often overlooked by tourists, this picturesque canton offers a blend of Swiss tradition and modernity, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Swiss experience.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will dive deep into the best things to do, see, and taste in Glarus. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Glarus has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Glarus

Check out our list of the top attractions to visit in Glarus, divided into two sections, cultural and natural.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Glarner Landesmuseum

Located in the heart of Glarus, the Glauer Landesmuseum is the perfect place to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, weapons, and household items, that showcases the customs and traditions of the local Swiss population.

The Historic Town of Glarus

Take a stroll through the quaint streets of Glarus, lined with colorful houses, historic churches, and picturesque squares. The town’s charming atmosphere has earned it a spot on the list of Switzerland’s prettiest towns.

Natural Attractions of Glarus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Waterfall Trail

This scenic hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green forests that make up the core of Glarus’s natural beauty. The trail’s unique location, perched high above the valley, offers a bird’s eye view of the township that you won’t find elsewhere.

The Kerenzerberg Mountain

Located just a few miles outside of Glarus, the Kerenzerberg Mountain is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the peak, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glarus

Glarus has no dearth of outdoor activities, with a plethora of hiking and biking routes for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore while in Glarus.

Hiking Routes

The Walensee Trail

This challenging trail offers a true test of endurance, with a 17-mile stretch that winds around the stunning Walensee Lake. The trail offers a variety of terrains, including rocky cliffs, dense forests, and steep hills, and offers astounding panoramic views of the mountains and lake.

The Klausen Pass Trail

This stunning trail passes through the legendary Klausen Pass, a scenic mountain pass that has been a favorite of both hikers and drivers for centuries. The trail offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and picturesque views, making it an ideal destination for experienced hikers.

Biking Routes

The Sernftal Trail

This four-mile trail offers a gentle ride through the beautiful Sernftal Valley, with a variety of scenery, including pastureland, small farms, and pristine lakes. The trail is perfect for families with young children, as it offers easy terrain and stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.

The Pizol Trail

This intermediate-level trail winds around the Pizol Mountain, with a challenging climb at the outset and a thrilling downhill run to the finish. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of terrain, including technical downhill sections, single-track paths, and rocky terrain.

Best Things to Do in Glarus: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path activities to do in Glarus, check out our list of unique tours and activities.

The Glarus Brewery Tour

Take a guided tour of the Glarus Brewery, where visitors can see the traditional brewing process and sample some local Swiss beer. The tour also includes a brief history of the brewery and its role in the region’s culture and economy.

The Swiss Wine Tour

Glarus is home to some of the finest Swiss wines, and visitors can take a guided tour of the local vineyards and wineries to sample the best of the region’s vintages. The tour includes tastings at multiple wineries and a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glarus

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Glarus, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the historic town of Glarus and visit the Glarner Landesmuseum
Day 2 Hike the Waterfall Trail and indulge in some traditional Swiss cuisine
Day 3 Take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the Kerenzerberg mountain
Day 4 Biking along the Sernftal Trail and wine tasting
Day 5 Visit the Klausen Pass and enjoy panoramic views of the region
Day 6 Take a day trip to the nearby towns of Amden and Elm
Day 7 Relax and unwind at one of Glarus’s popular spa resorts

Food and Drink Scene of Glarus

Switzerland is known for its delicious cuisine, and Glarus is no exception. Here’s a look at some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of the region.

Must-Try Dishes

Rösti

This traditional Swiss dish consists of fried potatoes served with a variety of accompaniments, including cheese, bacon, and eggs. Visitors can find this dish in any of Glarus’s traditional Swiss restaurants.

Älplermagronen

This pasta dish is a popular comfort food in Switzerland, consisting of macaroni, cheese, onions, and potatoes. It is often served with applesauce or bacon.

Local Beverages

Swiss Beer

Glarus is home to some of the best breweries in Switzerland, offering a wide variety of beers to suit every taste. Visitors can sample the region’s best beer on a guided brewery tour.

Swiss Wine

The Swiss hills surrounding Glarus offer the perfect climate for growing grapevines, producing some of the finest wines in the country. Visitors can take a guided tour of the local vineyards and wineries to sample the region’s best vintages.

Where to Stay in Glarus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Glarus offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top recommendations.

The Hirschen Swiss Quality Hotel

This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Glarus’s historic town, offering easy access to the region’s top attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine, and a spa.

The Glarnerhof Swiss Q Hotel

This charming hotel is located just a few miles outside of Glarus, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant serving seasonal Swiss cuisine, and a spa.

What to Buy in Glarus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to take home from Glarus, here’s our list of must-buy items.

Schabziger Cheese

This pungent cheese is a regional specialty in Glarus, made from a blend of cow’s milk and herbs. Visitors can find this cheese in any of the local markets or cheese shops.

Swiss Chocolates

Switzerland is famous for its delicious chocolates, and Glarus is no exception. Visitors can find a wide variety of Swiss chocolates in any of the town’s many chocolate shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Glarus

Glarus has a unique culture and customs that are worth learning about before visiting. Here are some of our top insights into the local culture of Glarus.

Locals speak Swiss German or High German as their first language, so learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in improving your interactions with locals.

Swiss flags are typically hung outside of homes and businesses to indicate national pride.

Swiss people are known for their punctuality, so make sure to arrive promptly for any appointments or activities.

Best Time to Visit Glarus

Glarus is a year-round destination, offering a variety of activities to suit any season. However, the best time to visit Glarus is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glarus

Here are some basic Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Glarus:

Do:

Learn a few basic German phrases.

Respect the local customs and traditions of the region.

Carry cash, as some establishments may not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

Litter or disrespect the natural beauty of the region.

Drink excessively or behave inappropriately in public.

Be rude or impolite to locals.

Safety and Health

Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in Glarus.

Safety in Glarus

Glarus is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Health in Glarus

Switzerland is known for its quality healthcare system, and visitors can expect high-quality medical care in Glarus. However, visitors should be aware that medical costs can be high in Switzerland, so it’s essential to have adequate travel insurance coverage.

Getting to Glarus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s what you need to know about getting to Glarus and getting around once you’re there.

Airports Near Glarus

The closest airport to Glarus is Zurich International Airport, located approximately 50 miles away. From Zurich, visitors can take a train or bus to Glarus.

Bus Stations Near Glarus

Glarus has a well-developed bus network, with regular services to nearby towns and attractions. The nearest major bus station is in the nearby town of Schwanden, approximately 3 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors who prefer to drive can rent a car at Zurich International Airport and drive to Glarus. However, be aware that parking in Glarus can be challenging, so it’s best to park outside of town and use public transport to get around.

How to Get Around in Glarus

Glarus is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot. However, visitors who want to explore the nearby towns and attractions can use the bus service or rent a bike.

Where to Go Next from Glarus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Glarus that are worth exploring:

Zurich

Located just 40 miles away, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, offering a vast array of cultural attractions, nightlife, and shopping opportunities.

The Rhine Falls

Located just a few miles outside of Zurich, the Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe, offering stunning views and an array of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Glarus offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modernity, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Swiss experience. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit Glarus and explore everything this fantastic region has to offer.