Duftrosengarten Rapperswil

Duftrosengarten Rapperswil is a fragrant rose garden in the centre of Rapperswil-Jona, a town on Lake Zurich in the canton of St. Gallen. It was designed for blind and visually impaired visitors, yet anyone who enjoys scent and plants will find it rewarding. Entry is free.

Where is the garden and what is it?

The garden sits on the Schanz, a rise above the underground car park next to the old town. ADAC lists it as founded in 1984. The roses were chosen first of all for the strength of their perfume rather than looks alone. Rapperswil has long been known as the "Rosenstadt" (rose town), and roses even appear on the town's coat of arms. The Duftrosengarten is one of several rose gardens in the area, alongside those on the castle hill slope and near the Einsiedlerhaus.

What will you see?

According to Switzerland Tourism, the beds hold more than 1,500 plants of roughly 75 scented varieties. Labels are printed in both Braille and ordinary lettering, and the plantings are arranged so visitors can reach the blooms easily and smell them up close. This kind of garden is uncommon in Switzerland and sets the place apart.

When should you visit?

The rose gardens can be visited from April to October. Flowering runs from about May to October, with the peak usually in June and July, when the perfume carries well beyond the beds. Outside the season the garden has much less to offer.

How do you get there?

Rapperswil lies at the northeastern end of Lake Zurich, with direct rail links to Zurich and St. Gallen. The centre is within walking distance of the station, and the Schanz is right by the old town, so the garden fits easily into a stroll around Rapperswil. The Rapperswil Zürichsee Tourismus office at Fischmarktplatz 1 can provide further information.

What else is nearby?

A castle rises above the town, and the Lindenhügel terrace in front of its gate gives a broad view over the lake. More rose gardens line the castle slope and the area around the Einsiedlerhaus. You can see all of this in half a day.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an admission fee? No, the garden is open to the public free of charge.

When are the roses at their best? Usually in June and July, though the season stretches from late spring to October.

Is the garden suitable for blind visitors? Yes. Variety names are given in Braille, and the garden was created with visually impaired people in mind.

How many varieties grow here? About 75 scented varieties, with more than 1,500 plants in total.