Hohwacht

Hohwacht is a reinforced concrete observation tower in Reisiswil standing at approximately 780 meters elevation, overlooking the Mittelland and Aaretal regions. The structure reaches about 20 meters in height and was built entirely from concrete.

The tower was built in 1911 and replaced an earlier wooden structure from 1886 that stood in the same location. The concrete construction served as part of a fire signal system for transmitting alerts across the canton.

The tower holds status as a Swiss cultural property of cantonal significance and represents how early architects shaped the region's identity. It shows how people valued their landscape and wanted to share views across the surrounding area.

Access to the top involves climbing stairs in stages: 70 steps to the first viewing platform, followed by 21 steps to a second level, and finally 14 rungs to the highest point. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the passages are narrow.

A panoramic identification table at the observation deck labels approximately 150 mountain peaks visible from this vantage point. The list spans from the Jura mountains to the Alps, helping visitors orient themselves geographically.

Location: Reisiswil

Inception: 1911

Elevation above the sea: 780 m

Made from material: reinforced concrete

Part of: list of cultural properties in Reisiswil

Address: Hochwacht 20, 4919 Reisiswil

GPS coordinates: 47.16612,7.83288

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:22