Attractions and Places To See in the Wahlkreis Rheintal - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in the Wahlkreis Rheintal include a diverse range of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. This electoral district in the Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, is characterized by its position along the Rhine River and its surrounding Alpine foothills. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, alongside visits to historical towns and natural reserves.
Best attractions and places to see in the Wahlkreis Rheintal
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: September 25, 2026
Old Rhine Pedestrian and Cycle Border Bridge (Austria–Switzerland)
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hoher Kasten Summit
Highlight • Summit
Accordingly, you are rarely alone here.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Old Rhine
Highlight (Segment) • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Eselschwanz Nature Reserve on the Old Rhine
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Rhine Cycle Path (EV15) on the Swiss Side
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bench and cross at Diepoldsauer Schwamm
Highlight • Viewpoint
In the snowy winter it is great here with …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Altstätten Old Town
Highlight • Historical Site
Showing Translation
Tip by
Grimmenstein Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Kastensattel 1678 m
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Appenzell Innerrhoden, St. Gallen
The Kastensattel is a mountain pass at the foot of the Hoher Kasten. It lies directly on the cantonal border …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Wichenstein Lake
Highlight • Lake
The Wichensteiner See is located in the municipality of Oberriet at the eastern foot of the Semelenberg. A clay pit operated on the area of the present …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in the Wahlkreis Rheintal.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Wahlkreis Rheintal
Alpine Panorama Route — 8 stages through the foothills of the Alps
The Herzroute – Cycling through the heart of Switzerland
The Rhine Cycle Path — From the source to the North Sea
Lake and Alps Adventure – explore 100 dreamy places in our cycling region!
Lake and Alps Main Route – Your Path To Adventure!
Castles, wine and three-country views – Rhine Valley High Trail
Four wonderful bike rides around St. Gallen and Lake Constance
Exciting day hikes in Switzerland’s Alpstein
Picturesque landscapes in three countries – Lake Constance circular route
Up & down — mountain passes and singletracks for beginners
Other adventures in the Wahlkreis Rheintal
Tips from the Community
On the descent from Hohen Kasten, there is no longer any indication of where the path runs towards Bürzelalpe. Further down, you see a trough for the cows to drink from. This is the first landmark. From there, the path is clearly visible. A local told me that this path is no longer maintained and is also no longer on the maps. There were also no markings anymore. However, the path was clearly recognizable all the way down to the valley. And with the Komoot app, the path was clear anyway. The end is brutal. After descending 1,200 meters in altitude, you have to climb steeply again by approx. 200 meters in altitude to the parking lot at the bottom. And that in the midday sun. This is not only sweaty, but you have to fully motivate yourself again after more than 5 hours. But you can manage that too😎
0
0
You can go hard here! Do lower link and VO2 MAX training!
1
0
Many cycle paths, little traffic, interesting areas!
0
0
Wichenstein Nature Reserve, Oberriet The extensive Wichenstein Nature Reserve, with its biotope and set against the backdrop of an imposing limestone cliff, is an important nesting site for forest, hedge, and water birds. This wetland also provides a habitat for many insects, frogs, and amphibians. Wichenstein, with its over 20 hectares of land, is considered a reserve of supra-regional importance. It offers a place of peace and relaxation. A fire pit is located in the immediate vicinity of the pond. Text / Source: Municipality of Oberriet https://www.oberriet.ch/natur/7484
14
0
Wichensteiner See, Oberriet The Wichensteiner See is located in the municipality of Oberriet at the eastern foot of the Semelenberg. A clay pit operated on the area of the present lake from 1830 to 1972. The lake lies at an elevation of 420 meters above sea level and has a maximum depth of approximately 5.5 meters. It is divided into a smaller northern basin and a larger southern basin. The area was acquired by the municipality of Oberriet in 1976 and declared a nature reserve in 1982. East of the lake lies the "Grube Loo" (Loo Pit) – also a former clay pit – which, together with the Wichensteiner See, is a fen of regional importance and an amphibian spawning area of national importance. The lake is fed, in addition to underground springs, by the Wichensteinerbach stream, which drains the northern foot of the Semelenberg. The outflow structure leads into the Aubach stream. Text / Source: Canton of St. Gallen, Office for Environment and Energy https://www.sg.ch/content/dam/sgch/umwelt-natur/wasser/seen-und-weiher/02-01--gew%C3%A4sserqualit%C3%A4t-seen/kleinseen-und-weiher/Wichtensteiner%20See%20Oberriet.pdf
15
0
Also a very beautiful area for hiking on the old Rhine.
3
0
Gravel was once mined here for the highway. Now it has been transformed into a wonderful local recreation area.
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
The region offers diverse natural beauty, particularly along the Rhine River. You can visit the Eselschwanz Nature Reserve on the Old Rhine, a former gravel mining area transformed into a local recreation spot with floodplains and small lakes. The Old Rhine itself provides scenic views and opportunities for recreation. For panoramic vistas, the Hoher Kasten Summit offers views across six countries.
Are there scenic viewpoints in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
Yes, the Wahlkreis Rheintal is home to several impressive viewpoints. The Hoher Kasten Summit is renowned for its 360° panorama. Another great spot is the Bench and cross at Diepoldsauer Schwamm, offering peaceful views. From the Grimmenstein Castle Ruins, you can enjoy views of Lake Constance and the surrounding states.
What historical sites can I visit in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
The region has a rich history. Explore the Altstätten Old Town, known for its historical architecture. The Grimmenstein Castle Ruins offer a glimpse into the past, with an 800-year-old ruin and pleasant views. You can also see historical bridges like the Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria and the Wiesenrain Bridge.
Are there family-friendly activities in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
Many attractions in the Wahlkreis Rheintal are suitable for families. The Eselschwanz Nature Reserve on the Old Rhine is a great spot for recreation. The Grimmenstein Castle Ruins are popular with families, offering barbecue areas. Cycling along the Rhine Cycle Path (EV15) is also a pleasant family activity.
What cycling opportunities are available in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
The Wahlkreis Rheintal is excellent for cycling, particularly along the Rhine River. The Rhine Cycle Path (EV15) on the Swiss Side offers scenic rides with views of the Liechtenstein mountain panorama. You can also cross the Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria, which is part of the cycle path. For more cycling routes, explore the MTB Trails in the Wahlkreis Rheintal guide.
Where can I find hiking trails in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the 'Grimmenstein Castle Ruins – Weinberg Castle loop' or the 'Fuchslochtobel – Grimmenstein Castle Ruins loop'. For more options, refer to the Easy hikes in the Wahlkreis Rheintal guide. For more challenging routes, the Mountain Hikes in the Wahlkreis Rheintal guide provides options like the 'Hoher Kasten summit loop'.
Are there attractions accessible by public transport in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
Many areas in the Wahlkreis Rheintal are well-connected. For instance, the Hoher Kasten Summit is easily accessible by cable car from Brülisau, which can be reached by public transport. The Old Town of St. Gallen, a short distance from the immediate Wahlkreis Rheintal, is pedestrian-friendly and well-served by public transport.
Are there wheelchair-accessible attractions in the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
Yes, some attractions are designed to be accessible. The Hoher Kasten Summit, with its revolving restaurant and European circular route, is barrier-free and accessible by lift. The Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria and the Old Rhine Pedestrian and Cycle Border Bridge are also wheelchair-friendly.
When is the best time to visit the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
The Wahlkreis Rheintal offers attractions year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling due to pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities along the Rhine and visiting natural reserves. Winter offers opportunities for ice skating at places like Drei Weieren near St. Gallen, or enjoying the views from the Hoher Kasten Summit, which operates from April to February.
What do komoot users particularly enjoy about the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
Komoot users appreciate the diverse experiences the Wahlkreis Rheintal offers. They frequently highlight the stunning panoramic views from the Hoher Kasten Summit and the peaceful, natural beauty of the Eselschwanz Nature Reserve on the Old Rhine. The well-maintained Rhine Cycle Path is also a favorite for its smooth surface and scenic vistas across to Liechtenstein.
Are there any notable cultural sites near the Wahlkreis Rheintal?
While slightly outside the immediate Wahlkreis Rheintal, the nearby city of St. Gallen boasts significant cultural sites. The UNESCO World Heritage site of the Abbey of St. Gall and its renowned Abbey Library are major regional highlights. The Old Town of St. Gallen, with its distinctive oriel windows and Renaissance and Baroque architecture, also offers a charming cultural experience.
Most popular routes in the Wahlkreis Rheintal
Most popular attractions in the Wahlkreis Rheintal
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
