Urnersee, Lake in Schwyz and Uri, Switzerland

The Urnersee is the southeastern section of Lake Lucerne and stretches across the cantons of Uri and Schwyz for several kilometers. Steep mountain slopes frame the water on both sides, and small villages sit along the shoreline at regular intervals.

The lake played a key role in Switzerland's founding when representatives from the local cantons met at Rütli Meadow in the 13th century to form an alliance. This gathering established the foundation for the Swiss confederation and the region's independence.

The Urnersee is depicted in the painting Die Wiege der Eidgenossenschaft in the Berner Bundeshaus. In 1977 a supposed lake monster was named Urnie after the lake, echoing Nessie; it turned out to be a prop made for the television show Teleboy. The Schillerstein rises from the water near the Rütli, where the Weg der Schweiz begins.

Walking paths run along the shoreline and connect the lakeside villages, giving visitors easy access to different viewpoints and stops. Comfortable hiking shoes are advisable, and it is wise to check mountain weather conditions as they can change quickly throughout the day.

The Urnersee has never frozen over in recorded history, unlike other parts of Lake Lucerne. Its great depth relative to its small surface, the warm Föhn wind and warm inflows such as the Reuss keep the water from freezing. In 1977 a supposed lake monster, Urnie, was named after the lake; it turned out to be a prop made for the TV show Teleboy.