Family hiking and legends of the Säntis in Switzerland
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationSwiss / French Alps
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AgeUp to a 90imum of years
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CO₂-Emissions10.89 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
German
English
In a few words
Discover the contrasting landscapes of the Toggenburg region on a family hike at the foot of the Säntis massif . This well-balanced trip perfectly combines playful exploration, local legends, and outdoor adventures.
Your journey begins on the north side of the mountain in Unterwasser . After a PostBus ride and a cable car ascent via the Selunbahn , you'll hike from Strichboden to the mysterious Wildmannlisloch cave for an immersive underground experience with storytelling. The trail then winds its way past the majestic Churfirsten peaks towards Alp Sellamatt , where you'll enjoy a barbecue break by the campfire , before a scenic chairlift descent.
The next day, head south from Wildhaus . You'll explore the medieval ruins of Wildenburg Castle , steeped in regional history, before plunging into the impressive Flürentobel Gorge. After crossing the Fros alpine pasture, reach Gamplüt for a thrilling downhill scooter ride. To complete this active weekend, a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Lake Schönenbodensee awaits. An ideal Swiss getaway for young and old alike.
The highlights
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Fun family hike with views of the Churfirsten peaks and the Säntis massif
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Exploring the ruins of a medieval castle and the impressive Flürentobel Gorge
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Thrilling downhill scooter ride and refreshing swim at Schönenbodensee
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
You will enjoy this stay in complete freedom , with the advantage of being accompanied by a qualified guide on each hike scheduled in the program.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average distance/day: 6 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 333 m
- Average daily descent: 298 m
Mountain scooter
- Average duration/day: 2h
Management
German
English
Having grown up in a small village overlooking the majestic Churfirsten mountains, my connection to the peaks has been deeply rooted since childhood. Memories of my first hikes with my parents and grandparents, through the breathtaking landscapes of the Swiss Pre-Alps and Alps, have left an indelible mark on me. Now living in Wildhaus, between the Säntis and the Churfirsten, I feel the power and beauty of the alpine world every day. It is this magic that I wish to share and help others discover.
In April 2025, I made this dream a reality by obtaining my hiking guide certification. Strolling through the peaceful forest, wandering through flowery meadows, or climbing high above the treeline... I can't wait to immerse myself with you in the wonders of nature.
Program
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Exploration of the Wildmannlisloch cave and the Churfirsten peaks
- Transportation 00h10 - 5km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h15
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 222 m
- Negative elevation 414 m
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Meet at 8:50 a.m. at the Lodge reception in Unterwasser . Take the postal bus at 9:10 a.m. to Starkenbach, where the Selun cable car will whisk you up to the Strichboden alpine pasture. Your hike begins here, amidst alpine flowers, leading to the Wildmannlisloch cave . Accompanied by your local guide , you'll explore this mysterious cavern while listening to local tales and legends. The trail then continues at the foot of the majestic Churfirsten peaks towards the Sellamatt or Iltios alpine pasture. Along the way, enjoy a relaxing break with a barbecue over a campfire . To conclude the day, take the chairlift down to Alt St. Johann or Unterwasser, then return to Unterwasser station by postal bus.
Day 1 -
Wildenburg ruins, Flürentobel valley and downhill scooter ride
- Transportation 00h10 - 5km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h20
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 443 m
- Negative elevation 181 m
- Activity Mountain scooter
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Meet at 8:50 a.m. at the Lodge reception. You'll board the 9:12 a.m. postal bus to the village of Wildhaus , the starting point of your hike. The trail first leads you to the ruins of Wildenburg Castle , where your local guide will share the history and secrets of Toggenburg. You'll then traverse the stunning Flürentobel Valley , passing through the Fros alpine pasture, which offers breathtaking views of the Churfirsten peaks. Your hike continues to Gamplüt, where you'll embark on a fun scooter descent to the lower cable car station. To conclude this active day, you can choose between a relaxing swim in Lake Schönenbodensee or a direct return by postal bus to Unterwasser train station. End of stay.
Day 2
Note
You will enjoy this stay in complete freedom , with the advantage of being accompanied by a qualified guide on each hike scheduled in the program.
Accommodation
Whether you simply want to spend quality time with your family, are just passing through, or are coming to enjoy the region's countless hiking and skiing activities: at the lodge, holidays take on a whole new meaning! We look forward to welcoming you to one of our comfortable rooms.
Access
Go to the starting point
Via Nesslau (Western option, from Zurich):
- Take the train to Nesslau-Neu St. Johann station (terminus of the Toggenburg railway line).
- Just outside the station, board the postal bus Line 790 towards Wildhaus, Post . Get off at the "Unterwasser, Post" stop.
Via Buchs (Eastern Option, from the Rhine / Austria):
- Take the train to Buchs SG station.
- Take the postal bus Line 790 towards Nesslau . Get off at the "Unterwasser, Post" stop.
Located approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car or 2 hours by train (frequent direct connections from the airport to Wil SG or Wattwil, then bus 790).
Free parking at the hotel.
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in comfortable lodges and family rooms
- Breakfast on Day 2
- The hikes are led by a qualified local guide.
- Mountain scootering
- The transfers planned in the program
- The wowToggenburg host card
The price does not include
- Transportation to the place of stay
- Lunches and dinners
- Drinks and personal expenses
- The tourist tax
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Packed lunch : CHF14.64 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before you leave, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website (https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/).
For connecting flights operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the transit countries.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date), visa applications, required vaccinations, and health recommendations. Remember to also consider customs restrictions and other requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to your departure date, so remember to check official websites regularly.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
🎒 In your backpack (The essentials)
- Sufficient water and energy-rich snacks.
- Sunscreen (high protection).
- A basic first aid kit .
- A map of the region or a mobile phone with a fully charged battery.
- Hiking poles (highly recommended depending on the chosen route).
➕ Optional elements (To be added according to your needs)
- Spare clothes (including a dry t-shirt).
- Lightweight gloves and a headband or hat.
- An external battery (power bank) for your phone.
- Binoculars or a camera.
- Something to snack on during breaks.
Clothing to bring
Wear sturdy hiking boots that are already broken in and offer good traction. Opt for appropriate technical clothing , applying the "layering" principle (breathable and quick-drying layers). A waterproof rain jacket, a warm layer (such as a fleece), and sun protection (hat, sunglasses) are essential.
The Jörg team
Nestled between the Churfirsten and Säntis mountains, our local expert offers a unique immersion in high-quality accommodation. A true centerpiece of Berg & Bett, the property boasts a central location ideal for hiking or cycling. Our local expert looks forward to welcoming guests to one of the cozy rooms, transforming their holiday into a rejuvenating experience, surrounded by the fresh mountain air.
