The parish church in Walchwil was buzzing with life at the start of the school year: children and parents filled the nave and gallery with their energy.

The two Benjamins (Catholic parish leader Benjamin Meier and Reformed pastor Benjamin Bartholomä, marking the end of his temporary appointment) warmly welcomed the children, setting the tone for a strong start: On the trail of nature! Under this year’s motto, the aim is to make discoveries and experience fascinating things. Lector Susanne Roth recited the praise of creation from the Psalms. Creation is full of meaning.

Headteacher Fabian Ziegler warmly welcomed the pupils: school is something to be experienced together, with both joy and concerns. You don’t have to know everything straight away. You can ask questions and find help. That is why he also introduced the school’s tried-and-tested management team.

The two clergymen invited everyone to pray – including in their own native languages – and offered words of blessing. In learning, as in life, no one is on their own. At school, we journey together, embracing all our different backgrounds. We are accompanied, we move forward with greater confidence, and we are responsible for one another.

Iwan Weiss on the saxophone and Tobias Renner on the keyboard created a special atmosphere; they filled the church with thoughtful, uplifting sounds.

The school year has got off to a lively and cheerful start. Photo and text: Hans Ruedi Kilchsperger

The Swiss National Day celebrations in Walchwil were straight out of a picture book: Bärgtrychler, the sounds of the alphorn, traditional dances, yodelling and the brass band provided a varied programme. Through their performances, Walchwil’s local societies impressively demonstrated just how vibrant village life is and how much passion goes into keeping traditions alive.

Festive music, lively conversations and the aroma of barbecued food filled the air in Walchwil as the community celebrated its National Day. The festivities began with the traditional service for the homeland, which provided a fitting backdrop for this year’s National Day celebrations.

The festivities then moved to the playground of the Oeltrotten school. There, the local council welcomed the numerous visitors with a generously provided aperitif. In a relaxed atmosphere, toasts were raised to Switzerland’s birthday, acquaintances met for a chat, and new connections were made – very much in the spirit of a celebration that brings people together.

The fact that Walchwil has long since become a home for many international residents was clearly demonstrated by the large number of expats who took part in the celebrations. With obvious delight, they mingled with the festive crowd and contributed to an open, warm atmosphere. Their keen interest in Swiss traditions made it clear that the National Day brings together people from a wide variety of backgrounds and strengthens the sense of community in the village.

The culinary offerings also left nothing to be desired. The dedicated team at the Mütschi retirement home treated the guests to a succulent roast, delicious grilled meats and a generous salad buffet. The spread was thoroughly enjoyed and ensured there were plenty of happy faces.

Mayor Stefan Hermann opened the official proceedings with warm words and expressed his delight at the large turnout from the local community. Afterwards, the stage belonged to the Walchwil clubs, whose performances were repeatedly met with hearty applause.

A particular highlight of the evening was the speech by National Councillor Dr Gerhard Pfister. With wit, depth and personal reflections, he spoke about freedom, responsibility and the sense of community that defines Switzerland. His words gave food for thought and were very well received by the audience.

As dusk fell over Walchwil and the day’s celebrations slowly drew to a close, one thing in particular lingered: the feeling of being part of a vibrant village community. This year’s Swiss National Day celebrations demonstrated once again that a sense of home is forged where people come together, celebrate together and live by shared values. kh.

For more photos, see the picture gallery.

Unfamiliar sounds echoed through the village on Sunday evening. Japanese culture undeniably enriched the celebration on the terrace of the Reformed Church.

Taiko drums were originally used in Japanese temples. Assistant Vicar Benjamin Bartholomä held his farewell service together with the Goraiko Taiko group. The rhythms of the drums, accompanied by dance and exclamations, captivated those present, particularly against the magnificent backdrop of the view from the church terrace. No less gripping was the unusual passage from the extra-biblical Coptic ‘Gospel of Mary’.

The vicar alternated several times between the powerful drumming and powerful words: It is not only in the New Testament that Mary Magdalene stands for authenticity. We must lend an ear not only to the deafening beats of the taiko drums, but also to the quiet voices. On the terrace, welcome gusts of wind in the warm weather underscored the drum rolls, song and words. Finally, Benjamin Bartholomä was honoured.

Andreas Maurer (Church Councillor), Bertina Adame (Church Team) and Cédric Schmid (Chair of the District Church Council) thanked him for his courageous and successful service in Walchwil. We can now look forward to the inauguration of the newly elected pastor, Ruth Schäfer, in September! Text and photos: Hans Ruedi Kilchsperger

 

The darts tournament (Friday, 5 June 2026) in the village square attracted a large crowd. Young and old alike gathered to put their darting skills to the test and enjoy a few hours of fun in good company.

With great concentration, the darts were sent on their way. But however large the board may be, the coveted target areas often seem surprisingly small. Not every throw found its way into the desired area, and some darts seemed to decide on their own trajectory without further ado. This caused the odd frown here and there, but was usually quickly replaced by a smile.

Amidst successful hits, surprising points and minor disappointments, a lively competition developed that kept the participants captivated right to the end. Every hit was celebrated with joy, whilst misses were taken in good humour. It was precisely this mix of excitement, hope and occasional surprises that made the tournament so appealing.

In the end, it wasn’t just the result that mattered, but above all the shared enjoyment of the game. Thus, the darts tournament became an event that beautifully combined community, entertainment and sporting spirit – and is likely to remain a fond memory for many for a long time to come. kh.

At their extraordinary district assembly on 31 May 2026, the members of the Reformed Church in the Zug Menzingen Walchwil district nominated Ruth Schäfer for election as their new minister.

The nomination was passed unanimously. Ruth Schäfer introduced herself personally to the congregation beforehand and gave an insight into her background, her previous work and her motivation.

Candidate with extensive experience
Ruth Schäfer comes from Essen in Germany and studied theology and philosophy in Bochum, Jerusalem and Munich. She came to Switzerland in 2011 and completed a training vicariate with the Evangelical Reformed Church of Basel-Stadt in Frenkendorf-Füllingsdorf and Kleinbasel. Since then, she has worked in both individual and team pastoral roles in various Reformed cantonal churches.

Ruth Schäfer also has many years of international experience as a university lecturer at the Theological College in Banjarmasin, Indonesia, and as a visiting lecturer at the Sabah Theological Seminary, which serves several Protestant churches in Sabah, Malaysia.

Collaboration as a key element
Ms Schäfer sees her strengths in the areas of pastoral care, spirituality and worship planning. During her introduction, she emphasised that she was particularly drawn to the combination of active village life with local clubs and ecumenical collaboration. “God speaks to us humans through life experiences, today just as in biblical times. It is exciting to engage in conversation about this together.”

She is also deeply committed to supporting elderly, old or sick people, to whom she will devote herself as part of her work with the elderly in the city of Zug.

Successor to Reverend Irene Schwyn
Following the death of long-serving Reverend Irene Schwyn in October 2024, the vacant parish post was filled by various temporary replacements and subsequently re-advertised. The members of the Reformed Church in the Zug Menzingen Walchwil district are delighted to be able to nominate Ruth Schäfer as a suitable candidate who wishes to continue the life of the congregation in Walchwil and enrich the work with the elderly in Zug.

The election of the new pastor is scheduled for 22 June 2026 during the meeting of the Grand Parish Council. Simona Starzynski

FC Walchwil got off to a strong start and took the lead as early as the 2nd minute. Following a fine move, Dominik Simoni scored to give the visitors an early lead.

The home side from Muotathal seemed to underestimate Simoni’s team at first, but found their rhythm as the first half progressed. With two goals, they turned the game around before half-time and went into the break with a 2-1 lead.

After the break, FC Walchwil responded strongly and came out dominating. The deserved equaliser came in the 64th minute through Sven Truttmann, who rewarded the visitors’ good spell.

But just nine minutes later, Walchwil were caught off guard. Following a swift counter-attack, Muotathal restored their earlier lead and went 3-2 ahead.

However, FC Walchwil did not give up and fought with all their might against the looming defeat. Their efforts were rewarded in the 87th minute: following a precise cross, Neil Hager scored a stunning header to secure the much-celebrated equaliser, making the final score 3–3.

With this point, FC Walchwil once again underlined their strong second half of the season. Had the first half of the season been similarly successful, Walchwil could well have been in contention for promotion. kh.

 

FC Muotathal - FC Walchwil 3:3 (2:1)

Line-up
Dale Hager; Gregor Rust, Elias Hürlimann, Neil Hager, Bartu Cambel; David Hürlimann, Martin Truttmann, Remo Hürlimann (C); Simon Fuchs, Max Winkelmann, Dominik Simoni.

Substitutes
Frano Cubela, Sven Truttmann.

Goals
Dominik Simoni, Sven Truttmann, Neil Hager.

Coach
Vilson Simoni, Simon Fuchs.

Final standings
1. SK Root 18/42, 2. FC Perlen-Buchrain II 18/35, 3. FC Sins a 18/33,  4. FC Muotathal 18/31, 5. SC Cham III 18/27, 6. FC Walchwil 18/21, 7. FC Hünenberg II 18/21, 8. Eibuselection CF 18/17, 9. Blau Weiss Zug 18/15, 10. SC Steinhausen 17/5.

The Walchwil Men’s Gymnastics Club is not just about gymnastics, games and fitness. Just as much importance is placed on socialising and camaraderie. Joint excursions, interesting sightseeing trips and convivial gatherings are just as much a part of club life as the sporting activities.

The fascination of the second Gotthard Tunnel

On Tuesday, 26 May, twelve members of the Walchwil Men’s Gymnastics Club had the opportunity to experience one of Switzerland’s most significant construction projects up close: the second Gotthard Tunnel in Göschenen. The welcome at the InfoCentre alone promised an extraordinary afternoon. Charly Simmen did an excellent job of introducing us to the world of this monumental engineering feat with fascinating facts, striking images and a wealth of specialist knowledge.

We then split into two groups and headed straight for the gigantic construction site. As soon as we set foot on the site, we were overwhelmed by the sheer scale and the impressive atmosphere. Massive machines, non-stop activity and equipment weighing tonnes vividly conveyed the enormous feat of engineering being achieved here day after day.

Since February 2025, the tunnel boring machine ‘Alessandra’ has been in tireless operation. The high-tech machine, which is around 110 metres long, bores its way up to ten metres deep into the hard Gotthard rock every day. With more than 7,000 horsepower and state-of-the-art technology, it advances with precision, metre by metre. It was particularly impressive to learn that the tunnel is immediately secured with massive concrete elements every two metres – a perfect interplay of technology, precision and safety.

Despite the challenging granite rock, work is proceeding according to plan. The breakthrough of the second tunnel is scheduled for 2027, with the opening set for 2030. It was fascinating to see the skill, dedication and pioneering spirit with which work is being carried out here under the most difficult conditions.

This impressive visit will remain a fond memory for the members of the Walchwil Men’s Gymnastics Club for a long time to come – not only because of the massive construction site, but also as an encounter with modern engineering of impressive scale. Martin Hürlimann

The Pfaffenboden restaurant in Walchwil is getting new managers: Andrea and Karla Prodea are taking over the business and will reopen it on 1 May. The two sisters-in-law bring a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry and customer service.

They plan to open six days a week with a continuous lunch service. The menu will feature regional and traditional cuisine. The aim is to make the ‘Pfaffenboden’ once again a friendly meeting place for locals, walkers and visitors.

With the reopening, an important meeting place for the region is returning. Source: Korporation Walvhwil

On Saturday (7 March 2026) the traditional annual concert of the Walchwil Music Society took place in the Walchwil community hall. The society's 44 musicians presented an extremely varied programme.

The concert, entitled ‘Heroes and Legends’, was skilfully and humorously presented by Markus Heinzer. The evening opened with the march ‘Farewell of the Gladiators’, followed by the dreamy folk song ‘Carrickfergus’. The concert concluded with the rousing melodies of Glenn Miller, which brought the golden era of swing back to life.

The visitors in the packed community hall were highly satisfied with the performance. As usual, the concert was of a very high standard, and the numerous visitors enjoyed an evening full of heroes, legends and brilliant soloists with unforgettable music. kh.

Walchwilerberg has been transformed into a winter wonderland after heavy snowfall.

The snow-covered landscape offers wonderful cross-country skiing trails and hiking paths that stretch across the mountain, allowing visitors to enjoy the snowy natural surroundings. The snow-covered paths offer a special experience not only for cross-country skiers but also for hikers. The snow-covered landscape simply invites you to enjoy yourself. kh.

 

The Jass Cup, traditionally held at the end of January in the Aesch restaurant, offered the finest Jass spectacle. In 4 rounds, the 40 participants fought a duel with partners drawn by lot.

Walchwil Jass fans of all ages came together for an exciting competition. The event attracted both young and older participants, who put their skills to the test at the Jass table. It was a sociable evening full of fun and competitive spirit, where young and old could enjoy their passion for Jass together. kh.

At the annual Three Kings' Day meeting of the Zug Centre Party, President Peter Rust announces his resignation.

General elections will be held in the canton of Zug in October. Zuger Mitte will contest the election campaign without its president, as Peter Rust is stepping down at the end of March after three years in office. He will also not be available as a cantonal councillor for the next legislative period.

The entrepreneur told the Zuger Zeitung newspaper that he is retiring from politics in order to focus on his professional commitments.

The Zug Centre will decide on Peter Rust's successor at its general meeting at the end of March. The electorate will vote on the re-election of Andreas Hausheer, Laura Dittli and Silvia Thalmann-Gut to the Zug Cantonal Council in October. The three executive members want to stand again, as they confirmed at the Three Kings' Meeting.

Every Tuesday from 18:00 to 19:00 in the new gym (also during the school holidays)

Just drop by or register on 079 394 10 13.

The men's floorball team is for anyone aged 40 and over who enjoys training and playing in the hall. Playing equipment and shower facilities are available, it's all free, just come along!

On Saturday (15 November 2025), the traditional Heimatabend of the 93-year-old Edelweiss Walchwil yodelling club took place in the well-filled community hall.

The yodelling clubs delighted visitors with their vocal performances and a varied programme. Sarah Müller hosted the evening, which was all about local heritage, with plenty of wit and humour. With her relaxed, humorous manner, she proved once again to visitors that they had not wasted their time coming to the Heimatabend. Various performances, such as alphorn players, traditional dancing and yodelling, transformed the community hall into a festive hut.

The raffle began during the interval. Once again this year, the lucky winners of a winning ticket could look forward to very attractive prizes. kh.

Nine intrepid male athletes made their way from Walchwil to Whiteline in Meierskappel.

No sooner had they swapped their trainers for bowling shoes than the first balls were flying – with some players focusing more on power than precision. The president himself ultimately secured the crown for the evening with the most points. However, he couldn't quite hide the fact that he used to be a regular at Cherry Bowl.

After this strenuous sporting activity, the traditional beer was of course a must to round off the evening – and with every sip, the last traces of frustration about the missed strikes evaporated.

An all-round successful event for the men's team – we'll definitely be back again next year! Guido Pirovino

Walchwil has a wonderful tradition: clubs that qualify for major national events are welcomed back to the village upon their return. On 1 September, the wrestlers and netball players were honoured by the village clubs and the municipality.

Due to uncertain weather conditions, the event did not take place on the street as planned, but in the Catholic church. The proximity between the audience and the athletes created a particularly atmospheric atmosphere.

A total of six athletes from the Oberwil-Zug and Walchwil wrestling clubs took part in the Swiss Wrestling and Alpine Festival in Glarus. The netzball players also impressed: after several Swiss championship titles, they also won the Swiss National Gymnastics Festival in Lausanne in June.

The municipal council would like to thank everyone involved for the successful event and congratulates the athletes on their outstanding achievements. Walchwil Municipal Council / Image: Simon Leuenberger

Starting the new school year with excitement is a big deal: all pupils, their parents and even grandparents were invited to the festive parish church together with the teachers – and they were there!

Starting together – and not running away. Headmaster Fabian Ziegler drew on his personal experiences from his first year as headmaster to encourage everyone to get started: others are there and will join in! He pointed to the logo designed by the pupils, which reflects the motto for the year: ‘On the trail of nature!’ Community leader Benjamin Meier and pastor Antje Gehrig-Hofius inspired the audience with their words to discover, to pay attention, to marvel at the wonders of the world, to empathise with animals and plants, and to enjoy nature. Iwan Weiss on saxophone and Tobias Renner on keyboard filled the large church with energetic sound. With this solemn and powerful blessing, children, parents and teachers can now tackle the challenges that lie ahead! Marco Kunz's song applies to everyone:

Step by step up the mountain,
Step by step, don't give up, and when you reach the top, stand there and shout:
I'm definitely not giving up!

Image and text: Hans Ruedi Kilchsperger

Last week was a busy one for the Walchwil International Mens Club

Starting on Saturday 17th May, 17 members of the club hiked from the Village to the top of the Zugerberg, where they enjoyed a lovely lunchtime grill.

 

On Sunday, a few members set out on motorbikes to explore the beauty of Glarnerland, as a first of what is hoped to be a number of tours across the summer months.

 

And finally, on Friday, 24 members & guests travelled to Geneva, where they enjoyed an exceptional visit to CERN, visiting areas that very few people get to see, meeting extraordinary people, and learning so much about the incredible work being carried out there. Neil Macleod

To stay fit, we now meet every Tuesday at 6.00 pm in the sixth form gym for the popular floorball game. Are you there too? The whole thing is organised by the men's team. The event is open to all age groups over 30 and all nationalities. Have we piqued your interest? Just come along and join in. The equipment and the hall are provided free of charge. Sport, fun and variety are guaranteed. Socialising after the game is of course also part of the experience. Anyone interested is cordially invited to come along and join in.

Guido Pirovino

From 20 February to 24 March 2025, the new building regulations and the new zoning plan as well as other supplementary documents will be open to the public.

This means that a process lasting several years, in which the population has been actively involved, is entering a decisive phase. In order to inform the population in advance about the planned changes, the municipal council has invited all Walchwil residents to an information event in the municipal hall on 18 February 2025.

The documents will be available to the public for 30 days from 20 February 2025. Those affected have until 24 March 2025 to submit written, substantiated objections.

All objections received will be carefully examined. Together with the reservations from the cantonal preliminary review, they will be used to prepare the final draft, which the voters of Walchwil will decide on at the ballot box.

The documents can be viewed at the municipal administration during regular opening hours. They are also available in electronic form: Ortsplanungsrevision – Start der öffentlichen Auflage

Walchwil municipal council

The Jass Cup, traditionally held at the end of January in the Aesch restaurant, offered the finest Jass spectacle. In 4 rounds, the 56 participants fought a duel with partners drawn by lot. And the winner was Hans-Ruedi Meuwly.

Walchwil Jass fans of all ages came together for an exciting competition. The event attracted both young and older participants, who put their skills to the test at the Jass table. The sumptuous table of gifts provided additional motivation for the Jass players. It was a convivial evening full of fun and competitive spirit, where young and old could enjoy their passion for Jass together. The Jass Cup is a popular tradition that generates new enthusiasm every year.

The top 10 of the Jass Cup 2025
1. Hans-Ruedi Meuwly
2. Hans-Peter Schweizer
3. Wendelin Hürlimann
4. Katrin Roth
5. André Rust
6. Anna Heinzer
7. Esther Aeschlimann
8. Marlen Rust
9. Ruth Keiser
10. Albert Rust

For more pictures see photo gallery Jasscup 2025

On Thursday, 7 November 2024, the Walchwil men's team opted for a bowling evening at the Whiteline bowling centre in Meierskappel instead of the usual physical training. Unfortunately, only eight participants met in Walchwil village square at 7 pm to drive to the bowling centre together. The focus this evening was on having fun and socialising together rather than the usual training.
After an entertaining bowling session, the evening ended with a cosy beer in the Aesch in Walchwil. It was a welcome change for the men's team, who enjoyed the evening and were delighted with the successful event.

Around 800 costumes for men, women and children. Various hats, nostalgic costumes, gilets, trousers. Other items such as wigs, masks, make-up etc. Everything in good condition. Price by arrangement. Non-binding viewing. Contact: Ruth Hürlimann ￨ Costume hire ￨ 6318 Walchwil ￨ Phone 041 758 16 86 ￨ Mobile 079 741 80 36 ￨ Mail verleih@bluewin.ch

In sunny weather, 24 bikers met on the town square to kick off the new season. The participants were split into two groups and enjoyed the perfect conditions and the evening atmosphere. The route led towards Oberwil via Schönegg or Fuchsloch, on towards Winterstein and then via Vorderbergstrasse or Herrenwald back to Walchwil, where everyone was catered for by Beatrice and Robin.

Henrik Steffensen
www.bikeclubwalchwil.ch