Save this place and discover nearby attractions with NextOnTrip
In the app you can add it to your favorites, see what else is worth visiting nearby on the map, and earn a badge for your visit.
The app is available for iPhone and Android.
About this place
Mauensee is a small lake in the canton of Lucerne, central Switzerland, right beside the village of Mauensee and a few kilometres from the town of Sursee. A castle sits on an islet in the water, giving the spot the feel of a quiet postcard corner far from the crowds of Lucerne itself.
What kind of lake is it?
The open water covers roughly 0.55 km², so this is a place for an easy stroll rather than a full-day outing. It lies on the eastern edge of the Wauwil plain, next to the Wauwilermoos wetlands and not far from the larger Lake Sempach. Small streams feed it and the Ron brook carries the water away. Coordinates: about 47.172° N, 8.075° E.
What will you see?
The centrepiece is Mauensee Castle on its island. The fortress is first recorded between 1184 and 1190, while the building you see today dates from 1605, built for the Pfyffer family. Since 1998 it has been privately owned by the Sigg family, so it is a sight to admire from the shore rather than a museum to enter.
The second draw is wildlife. The lake and its surroundings form a protected area of around 69 hectares, where breeding birds have been counted regularly since 1985. Storks and grey herons are among the nesting species, and migration seasons can bring visitors from farther afield.
How do you explore the area?
A path of about 3.3 km circles the lake. It is easy going, suitable for families and anyone after a short walk. A gentler option is to walk over from Sursee, a route that hiking sites rate as simple. Binoculars will serve you better than trekking gear.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning and spring are best, when birds are settling into nests and mist hangs over the water. Autumn adds migrants, and on clear days the castle reflects beautifully in the lake. The reserve asks visitors to keep quiet and stay on marked paths.
Frequently asked questions
Can you go inside Mauensee Castle?
No. The castle stands on an island and has been a private residence since 1998, so you view it from the lakeshore.
How long does the walk around the lake take?
The loop is about 3.3 km and flat. Allow around an hour, including pauses for birdwatching.
Where is Mauensee?
In the canton of Lucerne, in the Sursee district, on the edge of the Wauwil plain near Lake Sempach.
Is it a good place for birdwatching?
Yes. The area is a protected reserve where breeding birds have been surveyed for decades, and storks and grey herons are regularly seen here.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.