stoos

Stoos is a car-free alpine village and resort in central Switzerland. It is located in the canton of Schwyz, administratively part of the municipality of Morschach, at the eastern end of the Schwyzer valley above the village of Morschach. The village sits on a ridge and is primarily accessed from the valley floor by the Stoosbahn, a modern funicular opened in 2017 that provides year-round service for residents and visitors.

The Stoosbahn runs about 1.6 kilometers and features a steep gradient, making it one of the steepest passenger funiculars in the world. Its construction significantly improved access to the village and supported the development of the local tourism industry.

Stoos serves as a base for outdoor recreation. In summer, it is a starting point for hikes and mountain trails to viewpoints and nearby peaks, including Fronalpstock, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and Alps. In winter, the area operates a small ski area with several pistes and lifts, attracting visitors for alpine skiing and snow sports.

The village preserves a traditional alpine character with wooden chalets and limited road access, contributing to its quiet, pedestrian-oriented atmosphere. The local economy centers on tourism, with guest houses, restaurants and small shops serving seasonal visitors. The development of Stoos as a car-free resort has been a notable example of infrastructure investment aimed at sustainable mountain tourism in Switzerland.