The Kaltbrunner reed beds in the Linth plain near the town of Uznach are among the most protected and internationally important wetland areas. The Linth plain is also an extensive leisure area, particularly popular with cyclists and inline skaters.

Tiny historic Uznach lies on the edge of the Linth plain at the upper end of the Zürichsee. In 1762 the town was totally destroyed by fire, with the church, hospital and 82 houses falling victim to the flames. The Catholic Benedictine Order administers the St. Otmarsberg Monastery in Uznach, Switzerland’s youngest monastery. Nearby nature and recreational areas include Steinenbach and Kaltbrunner Ried, Linth and extended forests on the slopes. Uznach and its surroundings are equally as popular with walkers as with cyclists and inline skaters.

The Kaltbrunner Ried (reed bed) lies in the Linth plain between Uznach and Benken and is one of the world’s most important wetland areas. The nature reserve with the Möwen pond is the remainder of the once huge Linth marshland between the lakes of Zürichsee and Walensee. It has been preserved after extensive road improvements and is home to a vast variety of rare species of flora and fauna. The departure point is Uznach railway station, where the key to the Pro Natura information room is available at the kiosk. Ideally you should allow a half-day for the tour and 10m high observation tower.

In addition to the 150 species of birds in the Kaltbrunner Ried, storks have also come home to roost in Uznach: «stork father» Ernst Friedrich has built up a stork colony, all-year-round home to some 30 storks behind the Kreuzkirche (Church of the Holy Cross) near the railway station.

Only a few kilometres away is the excursion destination of Atzmännig: summer attractions are beautiful hiking routes, a 700m-long giant slide and leisure park. In winter - if Mother Snow cooperates - Atzmännig offers ski fun without a long journey.

Highlights

• Kaltbrunner Ried - protected wetlands of international importance with over 150 species of birds and a small information centre
• Stork colony - behind the Uznach Kreuzkirche (Church of the Holy Cross), home to around 30 storks all year round.
• Cycling and skating tours right across the Linth plain between the Zürichsee and Walensee lakes.
• Haus der Edelsteine (Precious Stones Centre) in Uznach - gems and minerals from all over the world to admire and buy, over 600 m2 of exhibition space.