Aussichtsturm Irchel

Aussichtsturm Irchel is a lookout tower above the village of Buch am Irchel in the canton of Zurich, northern Switzerland. It crowns a hilltop beside the Buchemer Irchel, the municipality's highest point at 694 m, while the tower itself sits at roughly 665 m above sea level. It is one of the best-known targets for walkers on the Irchel ridge in the Zürcher Weinland.

What can you see from the top?

The tower rises above the forest that covers the ridge and opens a wide panorama. In clear weather the view runs from the Klettgau in the north across the Weinland wine country to the Glarus and Schwyz Alps in the south. The tower is freely accessible, with no ticket or booking required.

When was it built?

Jakob Zimiker put up the first tower here in 1930, with help from the Winterthur section of the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC). The present structure dates from 1983. Down in the valley, Buch am Irchel has deep roots: Roman-era remains turned up during the church renovation of 1965.

How do you get to the Irchel tower?

Take the S-Bahn to Andelfingen or Hettlingen, then a bus to the stop Buch am Irchel, Oberbuch. From there it is about a 25-minute walk on forest paths. The village lies at around 532 m, so the climb is moderate.

Which hiking routes pass the tower?

A popular route leads from Buch am Irchel via the Irchelturm and the Irchel Hochwacht to Teufen ZH, taking about 2 hours according to Zürcher Wanderwege. You can also extend it to Tössegg and take a boat to Eglisau. It works well as a half-day outing by public transport.

When should you go?

Pick a day with good visibility, ideally after a front has passed and the air is crisp, so the Alpine horizon shows clearly. Evenings are popular too: the ZVV travel site suggests the Buch am Irchel to Tössegg walk with a sunset stop at the tower. If you linger past dusk, bring a headlamp for the forest descent.

What else is nearby?

In Buch am Irchel, a copper beech grows on the lower Stammberg. Its leaves turn bright red around Ascension Day, and the tree is tied to a local legend of three brothers and a tradition from 1680. The surroundings are vineyard country with quiet Weinland villages.

FAQ

Does it cost anything to climb the tower?

No. It is freely accessible.

How long is the walk from Buch am Irchel?

Route descriptions give about 25 minutes, from the village at 532 m up to the tower at 665 m.

Can I get there without a car?

Yes. Use the S-Bahn to Andelfingen or Hettlingen, then the bus to Buch am Irchel, Oberbuch.

What is visible from the top?

The Klettgau, the Weinland and, on clear days, the Glarus and Schwyz Alps.