Schleifenbergturm

Schleifenbergturm is a steel lookout tower on the Schleifenberg hill above Liestal, in the Swiss canton of Basel-Landschaft. It stands about 30 m tall on a summit of roughly 606 m above sea level, putting its top near 636 m. It is a favourite short outing from Basel.

What can you see from the top?

The highest platform sits at around 28.5 m. On a clear day the view takes in the Black Forest, the Vosges and the line of the Alps. The hill belongs to the Tabular Jura, so you look out over forests, meadows and the broad valleys of north-western Switzerland.

What is the tower's history?

The first tower, built of wood, went up in 1891. Lightning hit it six years later and destroyed it. A new tower, this time made of steel, was completed on the same spot in 1900 and still stands today.

How do you get to Schleifenberg?

The quickest approach starts at the Windentalhöhe stop, served by bus line 83, followed by a walk of about 25 minutes. From Liestal on foot, plan on roughly 1 hour 5 minutes.

Popular routes:

• Liestal to Rheinfelden (T1, about 17 km, 4 h 40 min): the tower marks the midpoint of the hike.
• Liestal loop via Roti Flue (about 2 h 40 min, around 330 m of climbing): up from the station area, back through the Windental valley.
• Short Lausen loop (about 3.8 km, around 1 hour): an easy circuit that suits families and includes the tower.

When is it open and what does it cost?

The tower is open daily from 6:00 to 20:00. Entry is 50 Rappen, dropped in at the turnstile. The restaurant by the tower opens only on Sundays and public holidays, so on other days bring your own food and water.

When should you go?

Visibility is best after a weather front has passed and on crisp autumn mornings, when the farthest ranges show up. In summer, aim for early morning or evening. In winter, check the paths for icy snow before you set out.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Schleifenbergturm? About 30 m, with the viewing platform at roughly 28.5 m.

Is there an entry fee? Yes, 50 Rappen, paid at the turnstile.

Can you get close by public transport? Yes. Bus line 83 stops at Windentalhöhe, about a 25-minute walk from the tower.

What can you see from the top? In clear air, the Black Forest, the Vosges and the Alps.