Turbenthal in the virtually fog-free upper Tösstal Valley near Winterthur. The banks of the Töss, the idyllic Bichelsee lake, nearby Kyburg Castle and Schauenberg mountain with the Gyrenbad are popular nearby excursion destinations.

The lowlands of the Tösstal, Neubrunnertal and Steinenbachtal valleys, are just as inviting as the surrounding heights for hiking, jogging, walking and biking. Above all the idyllic cycling route along the banks of the Töss attracts families and bikers. The 20-kilometre-long Töss-Wasserlehrpfad (educational trail) is especially suitable for cyclists and inline skaters. Panels along the river give information on its hydrological, geological and water resource significance.

A small lido is located at nearby Bichelsee lake, ideal for a refreshing swim during the summer months (with children’s paddling pool and playground, beach volleyball court, kiosk etc.). Boats can also be hired. Ice skating is possible in winter given the right ice conditions.

The Gyrenbad guest house, above Turbenthal on the way to Schauenberg, is steeped in tradition and has been totally renovated and restored in cooperation with the Swiss Heritage Society. Nordic walkers will find three specially signposted trails here. A choice of two signposted trails of 3 and 5 km in length are provided for snowshoe trekkers wishing to make their mark in the fresh snow around the Schauenberg and enjoy the tranquility of the winter-white landscape.

Nearby Kyburg Castle, enthroned on a rocky spur 150 m above the Töss, is a historic building of national importance. You feel as if you’ve been taken back to the Middle Ages in the colossal baronial castle, which was first mentioned in 1027. The castle houses an exhibition on 800 years of the private and public life of the castle occupants and the people of the surrounding region. Numerous barbecue spots are found alongside the Töss below the castle.

Highlights

• Schauenberg – Winterthur local mountain with beautiful views in all directions, ruins of a former castle can still be seen.
• Gyrenbad guest house, a historic building awarded a prize for its renovation in keeping with Swiss Heritage Society criteria.
• Kyburg - colossal, well preserved castle complex high above the Töss, with attractive museum on the lives of the former occupants.