The best walks and hikes around Quarten

Quarten offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with over 90 trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. There are 32 easy routes, 43 moderate, and 21 difficult ones, ensuring options for all skill levels.

Yes, Quarten has numerous easy hiking routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Murgbach Waterfall – Sweet Chestnut Forest loop from Murg is an easy 4 km trail that takes you through a beautiful chestnut forest to the impressive Murgbach Waterfall. The Walensee Play Experience, a short family hike from Quinten to Au, also offers Switzerland's largest themed playground.

Quarten is rich in natural beauty. You can expect dramatic views of Walensee Lake, often compared to a Norwegian fjord, framed by the majestic Churfirsten mountains. Highlights include the trio of Thur Waterfalls, the secluded Murgbach-Schlucht with its impressive Murgbach Waterfall, and the serene Seeben Lakes in the Flumserberg area. The region also features the largest chestnut forest north of the Alps.

Yes, Quarten offers several circular routes. The Murgbach Waterfall – Sweet Chestnut Forest loop from Murg is a great example of an easy circular walk. For a more challenging option with stunning views, consider the Chli Güslen – View of Lake Walen loop from Flumserberg, a difficult 15.7 km trail.

The warmer months, from spring to autumn, are generally the best for hiking in Quarten, offering pleasant temperatures and full access to all trails. During these seasons, you can enjoy the lush landscapes, clear lake views, and alpine flowers. While some trails might be accessible in winter, many higher-altitude routes in areas like Flumserberg transform into winter sports areas.

Many trails in Quarten are suitable for hiking with dogs, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves, near livestock, or in crowded areas, and to check local regulations for specific routes. The diverse terrain, from lakeside paths to forest trails, offers plenty of options for walks with your dog.

Hikers consistently rate Quarten highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,100 reviews on komoot. Users frequently praise the dramatic mountain backdrops, the crystal-clear views of Walensee Lake, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various ability levels. The diverse landscape, from serene lakeside paths to rugged alpine routes, is a major draw.

Yes, many hiking trails in Quarten are accessible via public transport. The region is well-connected, with train and bus services often reaching trailheads or nearby villages. For example, the trail from Walenstadt to Quinten is easily accessible, with Quinten itself being car-free and reachable by boat or hiking. Checking local bus and train schedules is recommended for specific starting points.

Quarten and its surrounding areas offer various options for refreshments and accommodation. You'll find mountain inns and huts like Gamsalp or Hotel Seebenalp at Lake Grosssee, which provide food and lodging. The Culinary Hike Panorama Route Flumserberg even combines hiking with stops to discover local culinary highlights. Quarten also has hotels and guesthouses for longer stays.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Quarten offers demanding multi-summit tours. The 7-summit tour Flumserberg is a difficult 14.7 km trail that provides sweeping views of the Alvier Mountains and Walensee. The Flumserberg area also features the '4-Summit-Route Flumserberg', offering rewarding experiences for avid hikers.

Quarten is home to several captivating waterfalls. The Seerenbach Falls are a must-see, a trio of majestic waterfalls hidden within the serene landscapes. Additionally, the Murgbach Waterfall, impressive with its red Verrucano stone, is located within the Murgbach-Schlucht and is accessible via the Chestnut Trail. You can also find the Thur Waterfalls nearby.