Switzerland, a country renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historic cities, also hides fascinating abandoned places for urban exploration (urbex) enthusiasts. These sites, filled with mystery and nostalgia, offer a striking contrast to the typical Swiss postcard images. Here are the five must-visit urbex sites to discover in Switzerland.
1: The Sanatorium of Chalet-à-Gobet
The Sanatorium of Chalet-à-Gobet, located near Lausanne, is a legendary urbex site in Switzerland. Built in the early 20th century to treat tuberculosis patients, this sanatorium was abandoned in the 1970s. Today, only ruined buildings, empty rooms, and dark corridors overrun by vegetation remain.
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, patient rooms, and treatment rooms.
- State of Decay: Advanced, with structures in poor condition.
- Access: Access with caution
2: Villa Winter Near Zurich
Former elegant residence located on the outskirts of Zurich, Villa Winter stands out for its refined architecture and its now frozen atmosphere. Once a wealthy home, it is now abandoned, offering a discreet and melancholic setting appreciated by urbex enthusiasts.
- Infrastructure: Light stone building, large windows, and period balconies.
- State of Decay: Moderate, with signs of dampness and fragile areas.
- Access: Easily accessible
3: The Rose Thermal Baths in Basel
Former thermal establishment located on the outskirts of Basel, the Rose Thermal Baths reflect an era when wellness and elegance dominated the place. Now abandoned, the site offers a unique setting marked by the wear of time.
- Infrastructure: Indoor pools, large glass roofs, and tiled corridors.
- State of Decay: Cracked, damp, and fragile structures.
- Safety: Some areas may be unstable
4: The Old Estate Castle near Lausanne
Old isolated castle near Lausanne, the Old Estate Castle retains an imposing appearance despite abandonment. It now presents a setting marked by time, ideal for urbex lovers seeking places rich in history.
- Infrastructure: Stone building, tall windows, and old outbuildings.
- State of Decay: Some rooms well preserved and others degraded by time.
- Access: Access possible but located near inhabited areas
5: The Abandoned Military Fort of Saint-Maurice
The Fort of Saint-Maurice, located in the Swiss Alps, is a former military fort built to protect the Rhône valley. This site, abandoned for decades, offers a fascinating exploration of bunkers, tunnels, and firing posts. The fort is partly open to the public, but some areas remain inaccessible.
- Infrastructure: Bunkers, tunnels, and firing posts.
- State of Decay: Moderate, with well-preserved areas.
- Access: Easy
Conclusion
Switzerland offers a variety of fascinating urbex sites, ranging from abandoned sanatoriums to deserted factories and military forts. These places, filled with mystery and nostalgia, are treasures for urban explorers seeking new adventures and discoveries. Whether you are a photographer, historian, or simply curious, these must-see urbex sites in Switzerland will provide memorable experiences.
