Eastern Switzerland: Tradition, Gastronnomy & Pure Nature 🧀
19.03.2025
Today, we take you to a place where cheese holds its «tastiest secret» and where decisions are still made by traditional vote: Eastern Switzerland has so much to offer! Let yourself be inspired and discover this region from its most indulgent side!
Säntis with Schwägalp
At 2,502 m, Säntis is the highest mountain in Eastern Switzerland and offers one of the most spectacular views – on clear days, you can see up to six countries. A visit to Säntis is worthwhile in every season.
- Säntis in spring & autumn: While the lowlands remain covered in fog, enjoy the sunshine and breathtaking panoramic views from above - with a sea of clouds at your feet.
- Säntis in summer: Themed trails and hiking routes ffor all levels start from Schwägalp. Ideal for those who want to explore the Alpstein massif independently.
- Säntis in winter: The Laternliweg trail transforms Schwägalp into a glowing winter wonderland. After a scenic walk in the snow, a delicious fondue awaits. Open from November to March.
Säntis summit with a view of the Seealpsee © artwiese.ch, Rene Niederer
Stay at Säntis - das Hotel ***Superior
Located on Schwägalp, right next to the valley station of the Säntis cable car, this hotel offers a breathtaking alpine setting. Whether in the elegant wellness area, the modern roooms, or the Schwägalp restaurant, the impressive Säntis massif will be your constant backdrop.
Following the footsteps of Appenzeller Traditions
Nowhere else in Switzerland are traditions and customs as vibrantly preserved as in Appenzell: magnificent traditional costumes, picturesque houses, alpine cattle drives, and the impressive «Silvesterkläuse». Here, traditions are not just words – they are a way of life. A visit to the Appenzell Heritage Museum in Urnäsch offers a fascinating insight into this authentic culture.
👉 Tip: Every Sunday at 1:30 PM, there is a free guided tour of the permanent exhibition at the Appenzell Heritage Museum. Entry: CHF 8.00
Cattle show Herisau © artwiese.ch, René Niederer
Stay at Appenzeller Huus ****Superior
Wöllkomm to Gonten! From the outside, a traditional Appenzell house; on the inside, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. High-quality materials, custom-made furniture, and refined lighting concepts create a unique aesthetic experience. Enjoy cozy rooms, a gourmet restaurant, a wellness area, and a sun-soaked terrace.
The Cheese World Toggenburg
The Churfirsten mountains rise like a jagged crown over Toggenburg, but who is the true king of this region? Without a doubt: cheese! The cheese-making tradition dates back centuries, and today around 20 local producers create more than 200 different varieties. Here are two must-visit spots:
- Willi Schmid in Lichtensteig: A passionate and award-winning master cheesemaker. His Jersey Blue has won the title of World’s Best Jersey Cheese.
- Toggenburgshop in Ebnat-Kappel, Neu St. Johann, and Wattwil: A self-service shop open 24/7, offering the finest regional specialties – perfect for a souvenir before heading home.
A family-run hotel with a welcoming atmosphere, situated in the sunniest location on the Wildhaus Pass. The 26 rooms, furnished with bright pine wood, provide a warm and relaxing ambiance. Meals are served in the traditional restaurant with a sunny terrace.
Dinner at an «Erststockbeizli» in St. Gallen
In St. Gallen, people traditionally dine one floor up. The charming Erststockbeizli (first-floor inns) are true culinary gems of the region. These restaurants are located on the upper floors of historic half-timbered houses, once the lively center of medieval life.
The unique history of these establishments dates back to a time when the ground in St. Gallen was still marshy. While the dark ground floors were used for livestock and trade, the brighter upper floors became places of conviviality and fine dining. To this day, these inns feature low ceilings, wooden paneling, and Gothic ceiling beams.
Some of the traditional "Erststockbeizli" include: Genussmanufaktur Neubad / Schwarzer Adler / Weinstube zum Bäumli / Wirtschaft zur alten Post / Zum goldenen Schäfli
Special feature of the "Zum goldenen Schäfli": the sloping floor
Stay at Radisson Blu Hotel St. Gallen ****
Located next to the OLMA exhibition halls and close to the city center, the Radisson Blu Hotel offers modern rooms, the Olivé restaurant and bar, and an in-house casino for entertaining evenings..
Wome Trail Weinfelden
From Appenzell and St. Gallen to Thurgau. Nestled in the picturesque Thur Valley and surrounded by vineyards, the charming town of Weinfelden is a gourmet destination known for its excellent cuisine and fine wines.
The best way to experience the region’s flavors? The Wine Trail Weinfelden. This route winds through the vineyards of Weinfelden, Boltshausen, and Ottoberg, offering stunning views of the Thur Valley and the Alps beyond.
👉 Want to enhance your experience? Book a tasting backpack in advance: available for pick-up at Weinfelden station, containing a wine glass, a map, handmade herb chips, and a secure code for the tasting stations.
Wine Trail Weinfelden © comewithus2
In 1798, the canton’s independence was declared here. This 500-year-old building is one of Weinfelden’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Recently renovated, it seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance – both in its architecture and its cuisine.
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