ZÜRRER-SYFRIG BRUNNEN, Hause Am Albis, Switzerland

## Overview The Zürrer-Syfrig Brunnen is a public drinking fountain nestled in the hills above Hausen am Albis in the canton of Zürich, Switzerland. Situated at an elevation along the Albis ridge — a scenic wooded chain of hills running between Lake Zürich and the Reuss Valley — this traditional Swiss *Brunnen* (fountain) offers refreshingly cold water piped from a natural source into a manger-style trough. The fountain's double-barrelled name, Zürrer-Syfrig, likely references local farming families or former landowners who historically maintained the spring, a common naming convention for rural Swiss fountains. At approximately 47.259°N, 8.536°E, the fountain sits along one of the popular hiking routes that traverse the Albis ridge, making it a welcome rest stop for walkers and trail runners. Visitors have reported the water to be deliciously chilled and refreshing, consistent with the cool groundwater temperatures typical of this elevation in the Swiss Mittelland. ## Directions 1. The fountain is located along the hiking trail that connects **Albishorn** and **Albispass**, two well-known waypoints on the Albis ridge above Hausen am Albis. 2. If starting from **Albishorn**, follow the marked trail heading southeast toward Albispass. The fountain appears along the route before you descend to the pass. 3. If starting from **Albispass**, hike northwest (uphill) toward Albishorn; the fountain will be on your right as you gain elevation. 4. From the nearby settlement of Hausen am Albis, access is also possible, though you will need to hike uphill to reach the fountain's location on the ridge trail. 5. Look for a traditional manger-style trough with a pipe — the water flows steadily from the pipe into the basin. *Tip: The trail is part of the well-signed Swiss hiking network. Follow yellow trail markers (Wanderweg) between Albishorn and Albispass.* ## What to Expect The Zürrer-Syfrig Brunnen is a classic Swiss trail fountain: a pipe feeds cold water into a sturdy manger-style trough, and the flow is reported to be steady and reliable. The water has been described by visitors as deliciously chilled, making it an ideal refreshment stop during a hike along the Albis ridge. The surrounding landscape is a mix of forest and open pastureland with sweeping views across the Swiss Mittelland. The Albis ridge trail is well-maintained and moderately trafficked, especially on weekends and during warmer months. The area is accessible year-round, though conditions can be muddy or icy in winter and early spring. As with all natural water sources, the water has historically been used for drinking, but conditions can change — use your own discretion. The fountain is publicly accessible and free to use.