Barrier-free tour: Cathedral, Ermitage & enjoyment in Arlesheim

The baroque cathedral of Arlesheim is the landmark of the village and the ideal starting point for this round. The village center is located somewhat elevated above the Arlesheim-Dornach station. For the journey, the tram T10 to Arlesheim Dorf (barrier-free) or the bus to Arlesheim, Domplatz is recommended.

The cathedral is a lively place for services, concerts, and tours. Particularly impressive is the Silbermann organ, the last playable one of its kind in Switzerland. The barrier-free access is located on the left side.

From the cathedral, the path gently ascends out of the village to the secluded Ermitage, a green retreat full of peace and nature. After 650 m, the path changes from asphalt to a well-maintained marl path, and the first historic buildings of the Ermitage appear. In the narrow valley gorge, a cave entrance on the left (partly barrier-free) invites a short exploration before the path along the left rock face leads to the first pond. The transition to the upper pond is a bit steeper, and assistance may be briefly necessary. 

The route – clockwise around the upper pond – offers inviting rest areas, viewpoints, and quiet moments to breathe, and with some luck, a turtle can even be spotted.

At the end of the pond, the furthest point of the round is reached. The following section around the lake has minimal cross slope but also gently descends and is thus easily passable. A wooden footbridge enables particularly close access to the water, where numerous fish can be observed beneath the water lilies.

For a short section, the path follows the traces back. The return path to Arlesheim leads along the right valley flank, where the landscape opens up again. The surface still consists of well-maintained, compact marl. 

In the quiet village center, the route goes through lightly trafficked streets. Arlesheim, awarded the label "Best Swiss Villages", impresses with a multitude of historic buildings, inviting discovery and a delightful break. 

The tour ends at Café Einzigartig, an inclusive coffee house where people with disabilities complete barista training. The coffee tastes even better with a piece of homemade Linzer tart.

The Café Einzigartig is located near the barrier-free tram station Arlesheim Dorf, from where tram No. 10 runs to Basel SBB station.