6 Day Glarus Itinerary for Your Family (2025)

Glarus, also known as the Glarnerland, is one of those regions not very well known to international tourists, but it’s a hidden gem in the Swiss mountains cherished by many locals.

If you’re like us and love discovering the lesser-known parts of Switzerland, then you must follow our 6-day Glarus itinerary. Although there are numerous fantastic family activities within this Swiss travel plan, anyone can enjoy it.

We’ll be spending our time in the Glarus-Süd (south) region.

What You’ll Find in This Glarus Itinerary – Glarus-Süd

·      2 days in Elm / Hiking, amazing playground, downhill mountain scooter
·      1 day in Linthal / Hike to Muttsee hut and overnight
·      2 days in Braunwald / Via Ferrata and climbing, hiking
·      Optional day – Stay at Klöntalersee

Within these days we have added some roadside stops and also made suggestions where to add a day or what there is to do.

Enjoy reading and planning your epic Glarus Itinerary.

Click on map

Before you plan your Glarus Itinerary

Below are some important points to consider when you are planning your trip to Glarus. You can also see on the map of Canton Glarus which areas we will cover during this itinerary, for instance. (Areas in colour).

Self-Drive or Public Transport

Whether you rent a car in Switzerland or travel by train and bus, it doesn’t have much influence on this Glarus itinerary.

By Train & Bus

Most of these places can be conveniently reached using Switzerland’s excellent public transport system.

I’ve tried to include train time options wherever possible, but for the most up-to-date information, please check the SBB App before your travel.

And if you plan to explore Switzerland by train, getting the Swiss Travel Pass (for non-Swiss residents only) is a great idea.

It offers an all-inclusive experience, covering not only trains but also boats, some mountain cable cars, and train systems.

Additionally, you’ll enjoy significant discounts on private trains and museum admissions.

If Glarus isn’t your only destination in Switzerland, be sure to check out our comprehensive blog with over 10 different Swiss itineraries, detailing how to travel throughout Switzerland by train or on a road trip.

By Private Car

Undoubtedly, the easiest way to explore Glarus is on a Swiss road trip. Because it provides you with more freedom, allowing you to stop wherever you like and add places to your itinerary as you go.

Most cars nowadays come with GPS, making navigation a breeze—simply enter your destination and follow the indicated route.

However, within this Swiss travel itinerary, you’ll only need your car to travel from point A to point B. Once you arrive at your destination, the car is not necessary. Keep this in mind when weighing the costs between renting a car in Switzerland and purchasing Swiss Travel Train Tickets.

Accommodation during your Glarus Itinerary

During these days we will suggest specific places to sleep, whether it is a mountain hut or a great family hotel. However, these are only suggestions and of course, feel free to search around within your budget.
The map below should help with your search.

Booking.com

Day 1 & 2 – Arrival Day & Visit Elm

Begin this epic Glarus itinerary in the Elm holiday region. If you’re traveling by public transport, you can take the train to Schwanden station and then transfer to a bus to Elm. If you’re driving, there’s likely parking available at your hotel. In Elm, whether you stay at the Bergführer Hotel Elm or the campsite in Elm, you can easily explore the village on foot.

ELMER Citro Quellenweg – 2 Hours

After checking in at your chosen accommodation in Elm, take a refreshing hike along the ELMER Citro Quellenweg. This easy hike takes about 1 ½ hours and offers a great way to explore the region while stretching your legs after traveling. The trail starts at the playground on the outskirts of Elm and loops back to the same point. Along the way, you’ll discover the ELMER Citro fountain, where you and your family can enjoy a 100% Swiss drink. At the playground, you’ll also find a BBQ station, perfect for an outdoor evening dinner before heading back to your Elm accommodation. Note that this hiking trail is not suitable for strollers.

Day 2 – Ämpachli & Giant Forest

This day promises loads of fun for your kids. Head to Elm Sportbahnen, and if you’re driving, there’s parking available. Check the Elm Sportbahnen website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and timings. Once up at Ämpächli, take some time to explore all the activities on offer. The large restaurant is perfect for snacks and meals.

What We Did

Start by spending an hour playing on the playground, including the trampolines. Afterward, explore the Giant Forest Theme Trail, which is only 2.5km long but can occupy the whole day. Lots of interactive stations, play areas, and BBQ spots. After the trail, enjoy more fun around the water features, trampolines, climbing frames, and a large slide.

Finish the day by strapping on helmets, choosing a monster trottinet, and embarking on a thrilling descent along the traffic-free route to the bottom lift station.

Children aged 9 and older can ride alone, whilst younger ones can ride with an adult.

Read our full blog articles about the hike along the Giant Forest (Riesenwald) and what you can find at Ämpächli Kids Paradise.

Day 3 – Visit the Linthal Area & Hike

Today, prepare for an overnight backpacking adventure as you hike up to the Muttsee Hut at an altitude of 2500 metres.

Bergli Stüber Waterfall – Roadside Stop

In the morning, consider a visit to the Bergli Stüber Waterfall in Linthal, especially if you’re driving. It’s slightly off the route to the cable car station. Google “Bergli Stüber Wasserfall” to find parking and walk to the falls.  You only need about 30 minutes at the falls, leaving plenty of time for your hike later on.

By using the Swiss Public Transport system, you can take the bus from Linthal to the Burgli stop. To hike from Linthal, which takes 46 minutes along the main road. From the falls to the Tierfehd-Kalktrittli cable car, it’s 9km.

Hike to Muttsee Hut via Limmernsee – Overnight in Hut

The drive from Elm to Linthal’s Tierfehd-Kalktrittli cable car station is only 34 minutes by car, adding 10 minutes if you plan to detour to visit Bergli Stüber waterfalls.

If you’re arriving by public transport, you’ll need to take a bus from Elm to Schwanden, then transfer to another bus. This journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

However, there’s a hiccup in the Swiss public transport system: there’s no direct public transport to the cable car station Tierfehd-Kalktrittli, and the only option is to walk 6.2km from the bus stop in Linthal.

You might try hitching a ride with someone or calling a taxi at 079 370 74 92 (found under taxi Linthal). Still, considering the epic nature of this hike, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Glarus itinerary.

Read all important information about the Hike to Muttsee Hut via Limmernsee.

Day 4 & 5 – Braunwald – Glarus Itinerary

Braunwald is a car-free village above Linthal, surrounded by majestic mountains and beautiful meadows.

After an amazing night at 2500 metres, it’s time to descend. Plan your return hike carefully, considering the cable car’s lunchtime closure.
Check out the [Muttsee hut hiking blog](insert link) for all the details.

Before heading to Braunwald why not make this optional hike from the Tierfehd-Kalktrittli cable car station.

Hike to Linth Canyon Viewpoint (Optional)

If you’re up for a quick 3 km roundtrip hike, consider leaving your overnight bag in your car and hiking to the Linthschlucht viewpoint by the Pantenbrücke. You can choose to hike further, but even at this point, you’ll get a splendid view of the Linth Gorge.

Getting to Braunwald

From Linthal, it’s just a 10-minute drive from Tierfehd-Kalktrittli cable car station to the Braunwald Bahn (Funicular) near the Linthal train station. Unfortunately, there’s no bus service on this route, so you have to walk the 6km back or call a taxi. Some travelers leaving Muttseehut have pooled together and shared a taxi back to the train station, which is worth considering.

At the Braunwaldbahn Station, you’ll find a large paid parking lot (CHF 5 per day, CHF 3 for each extra day).

Check the latest timings and prices here:

Check-in at the Märchenhotel

Today, you’ll check in at the award-winning Swiss Family Hotel – The Märchenhotel Braunwald. It’s essential to note that Braunwald is a car-free village.

The only way to access is via the Braunwaldbahn (funicular). Convenient luggage transport services are available, and if you’ve made a reservation at the Märchenhotel, they’ll pick you up from the station.

Relax and Enjoy the Märchenhotel

The Märchenhotel offers numerous activities. Therefore this is a good time to relax at the hotel while letting the kids explore the hotel grounds.

Consider booking a Wellness Spa slot (adults only) or having fun with the kids at the jungle pool. The hotel also organizes afternoon activities, such as electric car driving and llama and alpaca walks.

Read our full Blog Post about the Märchenhotel in Braunwald

Day 5 – Via Ferrata and Hiking in Braunwald

After a hearty breakfast, head to the Gumen Panoramabahn, just a 15-minute walk from the hotel. A single trip costs CHF 15 for adults and CHF 8 for children (prices as of 2025), but check the website to confirm.

Via Ferrata Braunwald

Rent your gear at the Gumen mountain station, where a practice rock helps you get familiar with the equipment. Plan for about 2 hours to complete this thrilling activity.

Read more information about the Via Ferrata in Braunwald and some great tips in our blog.

Hike the Zwerg Bartli Theme Trail

After your adventure on the wall, consider hiking back down to Braunwald along the fun-themed trail Zwerg Bartli Erlebnisweg (Gnome trail).

Along the way, you’ll find many BBQ stations. Alternatively, the Gumen Restaurant offers delicious local dishes to satisfy your hunger before embarking on the trail.

The full trail takes about 3.5 hours, longer if you stop for a BBQ.

Read our Hiking in Braunwald – Zwerg Bartlis Erlebnisweg which provides a hiking map and plenty of information on how to shorten the trail if you’re tight on time.

Day 6 – Homeward Bound or Klöntalersee

It’s time to bid farewell to this stunning Swiss mountain region and Canton Glarus. But before you go, we have one more stop for you – a visit to Klöntalersee in Glarus. Most likely, it will be near your route back to the motorway, making it a convenient detour.

Drive along the right-hand side of the lake to enjoy the full beauty of this Swiss lake. Take a leisurely walk, have lunch, or even go for a swim. Accommodation is available on both sides of the lake, along with cool campsites. Why not extend your Glarus itinerary by one more night?

Traveling by Train and Bus

To reach Klöntal and the lake itself by public transport is possible directly from Linthal. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, starting with a bus to Schwanden, changing to a train to Glarus, and then taking the Post Bus to Klöntal, which is on the far side of the lake. There’s a bus stop closer to the beginning of the lake at the dam if you prefer to walk from there.

Conclusion about this Glarus Itinerary

We’re wrapping up this unforgettable journey through Glarus and the Glarnerland region.

This Glarus itinerary has led us on a journey through pristine nature, charming villages, and exhilarating activities.

From the overnight at 2500 metres, to the serene Linth Canyon and the adrenaline-pumping Via Ferrata in Braunwald. We’ve explored the diverse facets of this Swiss gem.

Glarus and its hidden treasures have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on our souls. We leave it to you whether you follow in our footsteps or embark on your adventure,

The journey was not just about the destinations; it was about the joy of discovery, the thrill of exploration, and the warmth of family bonding.

Not only will this Glarus itinerary provide you with exciting experiences but hopefully also sparks your love for Switzerland’s lesser-known treasures.

Swiss Travel Tips

We’re here to help and hopefully whilst reading our other Swiss Travel Blog you will find what you are looking for.

If guided tours are more your preference check out the many different tours Get Your Guide is offering. A great company to travel with.

I hope that the information provided here proves useful when you plan your epic Glarus Itinerary.

If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask your questions in the comments below. This will help others and they can join in the discussion.

Thank you & Never Forget to Travel

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