Autumn Sunday at Stoos

Stoos is a mountain village located at alpine plateau in the canton of Schwyz, 1300 meters above sea level. In winter it turns to ski resort, but in other seasons is a popular hiking destination. On one Sunday in October, my husband and went there to hike.

Frontalpstock viewing point

Stoos village is car-free and is accessible only via the funicular railway from Schwyz-Schattli or via cable car from Morschach. We opted out for the railway. The ride took about ten minutes and wasn’t particularly scenic. Because it mainly runs through the woods, tall trees vail the views. Even so, the ride was so short that didn’t bother us.

It was beautiful warm autumn day

After we arrived to Stoos, we spontaneously decided to take the chairlift to Fronalpstock mountain (1922 m).  We could’ve hiked up, but we were lazy. We didn’t feel like walking uphill for two straight hours and for that reason we opted for easier option – chairlift.

Small lake/pond at Stoos

Once we arrived at the top of the Fronalpstock, we went to the viewpoint where we were able to enjoy the impressive panoramic views. While most of the valleys were still covered with thick layer of clouds and fog, the tops of mountains Rigi, Pilatus and Stanserhorn were peeping out above the clouds. Similarly, parts of Lake Luzern (Vierwaldstättersee) were covered with fog, while others were already basking in the warm autumn sun.

Amazing panoramic views

We treated ourselves with the delicious apple strudel with vanilla sauce in the restaurant at the Fronalpstock and enjoyed the warmth of the sun. Then it was time to move our lazy asses and started walking. We hiked all the way down back to Stoos.

Restaurant at Frontalpstock

On our way down to Stoos we enjoyed the beautiful alpine scenery. Only thing missing were the cows and the sounds of their bells. They were already taken back to the valley for the winter.

I think, Stoos is great alternative to more popular mountains in Central Switzerland. The prices are a bit lower than at other summits, but the scenery and the views are equally nice and scenic.

Hiking trail

PRACTICAL INFORMATIONS:

HOW TO GET TO STOOS?

• By public transport:
  Take the train to Schwyz. There change for the bus (direction Muotathal, Hölloch) to the valley station of the Stoos lift.
  or:
  Take the train to Brunnen. There change for the bus (direction Morschach, Luftseilbahn) to the valley station of the cable car.
• By car:
  At the the A4 motorway take the exit Schwyz and follow the signs towards Stoos/Muotathal.
  GPS: 46.992284°N, 8.668764°E