Hirzli to Planggenstock, a pre-Alpine classic

A small gondola takes us from Niederurnen up to Morgenholz. From there the path climbs very steeply at first, then more steadily. On the steep section we can pause at the stations along the way, where carved wooden figures introduce the animals of the Alps. From the top of the Hirzli the view is tremendous: across the Swiss plateau to the Glarus, Central Swiss and even the Bernese Alps. There is plenty of time for photos and snacks, if the mood takes us.

We then follow the ridge across to the Planggenstock – airy in places, but always on a good path. After lunch there, we descend to Morgenholz. A stop at the Berggasthaus Hirzli is almost obligatory: a relaxed end to a short tour.