The nature reserve in the Frauenwinkel moorland is unique. The churches and inns invite you to linger, marvel and reflect. It is the largest island in Switzerland and can only be reached by boat.
Story
Diving archaeology has revealed pile dwellings from the 14th century BC. Since then, the island has had a lively cultic and religious significance. Around the year 200, there was a Gallo-Roman temple on the island, which was incorporated into the St. Martin Church in the year 500. Since a donation from Emperor Otto, the island has belonged to the Einsiedeln monastery.
Myths and legends
For centuries, the island of Ufenau was considered a place of the afterlife. Even in Roman and Celtic times, the dead found their final resting place here. In the 10th century, Duke Adelrich chose to live a secluded life despite his great wealth. He passed by the island on a journey and stayed there as a priest. When a great famine raged on the island, an angel appeared to Adelrich and brought him bread and wine.
Another time, when Adelrich wanted to return from Einsiedeln to the island, the ferrymen would not take him on board because of the storm. So, to the boatmen's amazement, Adelrich walked across the water to the island with complete trust in God without drowning.
Access
The island is best reached by boat from Rapperswil.
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