
Tell Chapel
A historic chapel on Lake Uri, famed for its frescoes and linked to Swiss folk hero William Tell.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Tell Chapel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic chapel on Lake Uri, famed for its frescoes and linked to Swiss folk hero William Tell.
"Outstanding!!! That place is so wooowwww We had a lovely time. Beautiful view, and you can go down to the lake."

🚶♀️ Walk to the Lake
Take the 12-15 minute walk down to the lake for a picnic; the views are amazing!
🚢 Ferry Access
Easily reachable by ship from Brunnen or by walking from Tellsplatte ferry stop.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

William Tell's Frescoes
Inside the Chapel
Vibrant frescoes by Ernst Stückelberg depicting scenes from the legend of William Tell.

Lakeside Serenity
Chapel grounds and lake shore
Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Uri and the surrounding Swiss Alps from this picturesque spot.

Path of Switzerland Hike
Along Lake Uri
Integrate a visit to the chapel into a hike on this iconic Swiss trail for a complete experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Tell Chapel
Best Time for a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to the Lake
Take the 12-15 minute walk down to the lake for a picnic; the views are amazing!
🚢 Ferry Access
Easily reachable by ship from Brunnen or by walking from Tellsplatte ferry stop.
🥾 Hike the Path
Combine your visit with the 'Path of Switzerland' hike for stunning scenery.
🔔 Magical Bells
Listen to the enchanting sound of the chapel bells for a magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to the Lake
Take the 12-15 minute walk down to the lake for a picnic; the views are amazing!
🚢 Ferry Access
Easily reachable by ship from Brunnen or by walking from Tellsplatte ferry stop.
🥾 Hike the Path
Combine your visit with the 'Path of Switzerland' hike for stunning scenery.
🔔 Magical Bells
Listen to the enchanting sound of the chapel bells for a magical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tell Chapel for its stunning lakeside location and the beautiful frescoes depicting the William Tell legend. Many enjoy the scenic walk down to the lake for picnics and the overall serene atmosphere. Some note that while the chapel is historically significant and visually appealing, the frescoes themselves might not be 'outstanding' to all, and dining options are limited nearby.
"We walked from Sisikon to Flüelen on a beautiful (but very windy) Sunday afternoon with the dogs along this part of the "path of Switzerland" - passing the Tellskapelle as well. the views were terrific and the Tellskapelle a nice stop before continuing the second half of the hike."
Jen B.M.
"Outstanding!!! That place is so wooowwww We had a lovely time. Beautiful view, and you can go down to the lake, we had a small picnic by the lake, which was really amazing. The sound of the bells make the place magical. You need to walk for 12-15 minutes to reach the bottom, but its worth. The location and views are stunning, the chapel and the frescos are nice but not particularly outstanding."
Divy Patel
"Outstanding!!!
That place is so wooowwww
We had a lovely time.
Beautiful view, and you can go down to the lake, we had a small picnic by the lake, which was really amazing.
The sound of the bells make the place magical."
Dolev Cohen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tell Chapel is accessible by boat to the Tellsplatte ferry stop, followed by a short walk. It's also a key point along the "Path of Switzerland" hiking trail, reachable from towns like Brunnen or Sisikon.
Direct parking at the chapel is limited. It's recommended to arrive by public transport (boat) or as part of a hike.
While you can drive to nearby points like Tellsplatte, the final approach to the chapel involves walking.
The 'Path of Switzerland' (Weg der Schweiz) is a scenic hiking trail that circumnavigates Lake Uri, with the Tell Chapel being a significant landmark along its route.
The walk down to the lake from the chapel area takes about 12-15 minutes and is generally manageable, offering beautiful views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Tell Chapel itself is generally free, as it's a historical landmark. However, access might be part of a paid ferry ticket or hiking permit depending on your chosen mode of transport.
The chapel is typically accessible during daylight hours, though specific times can vary. It's best to check local information closer to your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter the Tell Chapel itself.
The chapel is generally accessible year-round, but weather conditions, especially in winter, might affect travel and hiking routes.
The chapel is fenced, but you can view it from the outside. Respect the historical nature of the site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The chapel features impressive frescoes by Ernst Stückelberg depicting scenes from the William Tell legend, and offers stunning views of Lake Uri.
Yes, you can walk down to the lake shore from the chapel area for a picnic or to enjoy the water's edge.
Absolutely! The chapel's unique architecture, frescoes, and the surrounding lake and mountain scenery provide excellent photo opportunities.
It's a tribute to William Tell, a legendary Swiss folk hero central to the founding myths of Switzerland.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly at the chapel. It's advisable to use facilities at ferry terminals or nearby towns.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are scarce directly at the chapel. It's best to plan meals in nearby towns like Brunnen or Sisikon, or pack a picnic.
Yes, many visitors enjoy having a picnic by the lake near the chapel, taking advantage of the beautiful scenery.
The surrounding towns offer traditional Swiss cuisine, including fondue, raclette, and local pastries.
Snack availability is limited. Bringing your own snacks and water is highly recommended.
Cafes with lake views are more commonly found in the larger towns accessible by ferry, rather than directly at the chapel.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the chapel with the lake and mountains in the background, or focus on the detailed frescoes inside. The walk down to the lake also offers scenic shots.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors of the frescoes and the landscape.
Drone usage is often restricted in protected areas and near historical sites. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
Tripods are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors, especially during busy periods.
For frescoes, use a tripod and a wider aperture for good light. For landscapes, a polarizing filter can enhance the sky and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the chapel itself is small, the surrounding scenery and the opportunity to explore parts of the 'Path of Switzerland' can turn it into a memorable outing. Ensure children are comfortable with walking, as there's a descent to the lake. The visual appeal of the frescoes might also capture their attention, sparking curiosity about Swiss history.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the serene lakeside setting. The opportunity to descend to the water's edge for a moment of quiet reflection or a picnic adds to the appeal. The chapel's open-air design further enhances the connection with the surrounding natural environment.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for dramatic lighting that enhances the colors of the frescoes and the landscape. The walk down to the lake also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the chapel from different angles. Remember to check local regulations if you plan to use a drone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of William Tell
These tales are brought to life within the chapel through the striking frescoes painted by Ernst Stückelberg. These artworks vividly depict key moments from Tell's life, from his defiance to his heroic deeds. Visiting the chapel offers a tangible connection to this foundational narrative of Swiss identity, making it more than just a picturesque stop but a journey into the heart of Swiss history and legend.
Exploring the 'Path of Switzerland'
Integrating a visit to the Tell Chapel into a hike on the Path of Switzerland provides a comprehensive experience of the region's natural beauty and historical significance. The trail is well-maintained and offers various sections suitable for different fitness levels. Many visitors choose to hike from Brunnen or Sisikon, using the chapel as a key point of interest along their route. The combination of scenic hiking and historical exploration makes this area a must-visit for many travelers.
The Chapel's Lakeside Setting
Many visitors highlight the opportunity to descend to the lake's edge for a picnic or simply to enjoy the tranquility. The sound of the chapel bells echoing across the water adds to the magical atmosphere. The combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and stunning natural beauty makes the Tell Chapel a standout destination for those exploring the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit