Auslandschweizerplatz

Auslandschweizerplatz is more than just a beautiful park; it is a monument to Swiss identity. Created in 1991 to mark the 700th anniversary of Switzerland, the square was dedicated to the 'Fifth Switzerland'—the hundreds of thousands of Swiss citizens living outside the country's borders. The location was chosen deliberately for its historical resonance. From the square, visitors look directly across the waters of Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) to the Rütli meadow, the legendary founding site of the Swiss Confederation.

Today, the square functions as the vibrant heart of Brunnen's lakefront. It hosts various cultural events, national day celebrations on August 1st, and open-air concerts during the summer months. The wide, open spaces are framed by modern sculptures and well-tended gardens, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you are embarking on a historic paddle steamer cruise from the adjacent docks or simply sitting on a bench to watch the sunset paint the Uri Alps in shades of pink and gold, Auslandschweizerplatz offers a quintessential Swiss experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Unparalleled, panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the dramatic Uri Alps.
• A peaceful, beautifully maintained green space perfect for relaxation and picnics.
• Deep historical significance, offering a visual connection to the Rütli meadow.
• Excellent accessibility and proximity to Brunnen's cafes, boat docks, and train station.
• A prime starting point for the famous 'Weg der Schweiz' (Swiss Path) hiking trail.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting during the middle of the day in peak summer if you want a quiet experience, as it can get quite busy with tourists and families.
• Do not feed the swans or ducks along the promenade, as human food can be harmful to them.
• Avoid relying solely on taxis for local transport; the town is small enough to walk, and public buses are highly efficient.

Local Transportation Tips

Brunnen is exceptionally well-connected by Swiss public transport. The town's train station offers direct connections to Lucerne, Zurich, and Ticino. From the station, Auslandschweizerplatz is just a short walk away. Additionally, the square is located right next to the Brunnen SGV boat station, where historic paddle steamers and modern motor vessels provide scenic transport across Lake Lucerne. Local buses also run frequently, connecting Brunnen to neighboring villages and cable car stations.

Travel Etiquette

• Keep noise levels respectful, especially in the evening, as the square is a place of relaxation.
• Always dispose of your trash in the provided public bins; Switzerland prides itself on cleanliness.
• When walking on shared paths, keep to the right to allow cyclists and faster walkers to pass.
• Greet locals with a polite 'Grüezi' when entering small shops or passing on quieter trails.

Recommended Age Group

Auslandschweizerplatz is a versatile and welcoming destination suitable for visitors of all ages, offering a safe and scenic environment.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The wide, paved paths are perfect for strollers, and the grassy areas offer a safe place for babies to rest on a blanket.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will enjoy the open space to run around, watching the boats dock, and seeing the swans on the lake.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The stunning alpine backdrop provides incredible photo opportunities, and the nearby town offers cafes and gelato shops.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Ideal for a relaxing stroll, enjoying the historical context, or using it as a base before a hike or boat tour.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The flat terrain, abundance of benches, and easy access from public transport make it highly comfortable for older travelers.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The entire square and the adjoining lake promenade are completely flat and paved, ensuring smooth access for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
• There are no steps required to access the main viewing areas of the lake.
• Accessible public restrooms are located nearby in the town of Brunnen.
• The adjacent boat docks for Lake Lucerne cruises are equipped with ramps for wheelchair boarding.
• Plenty of benches are distributed throughout the park for those who need frequent resting spots.

Did You Know?

Auslandschweizerplatz is officially considered the 'home' of the Swiss Abroad. There are over 700,000 Swiss citizens living outside of Switzerland, and this square was specifically designed to give them a symbolic piece of land in their home country, situated in the very canton (Schwyz) that gave Switzerland its name.

Cool Statistics

• Year established: 1991, celebrating 700 years of the Swiss Confederation.
• Lake Lucerne, which the square borders, has a maximum depth of 214 meters (702 feet).
• Over 10% of all Swiss citizens currently live abroad, represented by this single square.
• The adjacent Rütli meadow across the lake is where the original Swiss oath was sworn in 1291.