Alpine hike from the Churfirsten to the Säntis in Switzerland
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelExpert
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DestinationSwiss / French Alps
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions9.89 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
German
English
In a few words
Discover authentic Switzerland through an alpine hike in the heart of the Toggenburg and Alpstein massifs. Starting from Unterwasser, this exceptional sporting immersion takes you to two iconic and contrasting slopes of the region.
The first day is dedicated to exploring the legendary peaks of the Churfirsten . From Alp Sellamatt, you'll climb towards the Hinterrugg and then the Chäserrugg , famous for its uniquely designed summit building by Herzog & de Meuron. Your panoramic route continues along the Gamserrugg ridge before descending back to the charming Wildhaus valley.
The next day, head towards the southern slopes of the Säntis . A steady climb from Laui leads you through the suspended landscapes of Tierwis to the summit at 2,502 meters . After taking in a breathtaking panorama spanning six countries, you'll tackle the technical challenge of the Lisengrat , a spectacular airy ridge connecting the summit to the Rotstein Pass , before concluding this Swiss adventure. A perfect blend of magnificent panoramas , distinctive trails, and preserved alpine culture .
The highlights
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Hiking in the heart of the unspoiled Toggenburg and Alpstein mountain ranges
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Ascent of the Chäserrugg and its summit with its unique architecture designed by Herzog & de Meuron
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Exceptional panoramic views of 6 countries from the Säntis at an altitude of 2,502 meters.
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: 7h30
- Average distance/day: 14 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1343 m
- Average daily descent: 1158 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
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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Panoramas of the Churfirsten and alpine architecture
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 1081 m
- Negative elevation 705 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your adventure begins at 8:50 a.m. at the Lodge reception in Unterwasser , where you'll meet your local guide . After a short PostBus ride at 9:10 a.m. to Alt St. Johann, you'll take the chairlift to Alp Sellamatt . This is where your alpine hike begins, leading you first over the Sattel Pass to the summit of the Hinterrugg , and then on to the Chäserrugg . There, you can admire the unique architecture of the summit building, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, and enjoy lunch at your leisure. The route continues with a geological walk to the Gamserrugg , before descending back to the Gamsalp station. Keep your eyes peeled along the way: carpets of alpine flowers color the landscape, and you might even be lucky enough to spot chamois, ibex, or marmots . Finally, you take the chairlift down to Wildhaus, then take the PostBus back to Unterwasser station.
Day 1 -
The mythical ascent of Säntis
- Transportation Minibus - 00h06 - 4km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 9h30
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 1605 m
- Negative elevation 1610 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Meet at 8:50 a.m. at the reception of the Berg & Bett Säntis Lodge in Unterwasser . A shuttle will transfer you to Laui, the starting point of your alpine hike with your local guide . You'll first ascend via Tierwis, where a coffee break is possible, before tackling the climb to the Säntis , the highest peak in Eastern Switzerland at 2,502 meters . To reach this iconic summit, you'll traverse challenging and technical sections, such as the famous Himmelsleiter . After lunch (not included) at the Alten Säntis, your route continues along the spectacular Lisengrat ridge towards the Rotstein Pass. Keep your eyes peeled, as the rock faces are home to a rich array of wildlife : chamois, ibex, and marmots regularly cross the path of hikers amidst a diverse array of alpine flowers . Finally, you'll begin the descent back to Laui and then return to the hotel. 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 a comfortable lodge and in a double room
- Breakfast on Day 2
- The hikes are led by a qualified local guide.
- Ski lifts for hiking
- 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.
