The best cycling routes around Gossau
4.7
(98)
960
riders
90
rides
Touring cycling routes around Gossau traverse a diverse landscape in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. The region features a network of paths that wind through varied terrain, including gentle hills, river valleys, and areas offering panoramic views of the Appenzell Alps. Water bodies such as the Sitter river and Horbacher pond are common features, alongside agricultural lands and charming villages. The area provides a mix of paved and mixed-surface routes suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Gossau
- The most popular touring cycling route is Espel Viewing Platform – Gossau–Flawil Cycle Route loop from Gossau, an 8.3 miles (13.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 1 minute to complete. This route features scenic views from the Espel Viewing Platform.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Hauptwil Pond – Waldschenke Bischofszell loop from Gossau, a moderate 12.4 miles (20.0 km) path. This route leads past the tranquil Horbacher pond and through varied landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) – View from the Ganggelibrugg loop from Gossau, a 23.1 miles (37.1 km) trail leading through river valleys and past the notable Haggen Bridge, often completed in about 2 hours 26 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Gossau is defined by scenic river valleys, views of the Säntis mountain, and tranquil ponds. The network offers options for easy rides through gentle hills as well as more challenging routes with significant elevation gains.
- The routes in Gossau are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 90 reviews. Nearly 1,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Gossau's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.3
(10)
106
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(13)
76
riders
20.0km
01:29
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
53
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
37
riders
65.6km
04:28
1,110m
1,110m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
riders
53.0km
03:36
830m
830m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Gossau
Tips from the Community
Since 1983, the Collegiate Church and Cathedral of St. Gallen (actually Collegiate Church of St. Gallus and Otmar) and the entire Abbey District have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque new building of the Benedictine monastery church, built between 1755 and 1766, stands where Saint Gallus is said to be buried. From 720 onwards, Abbot Otmar organised the construction work around the crypt, and his successor Gozbert began the construction of the new monastery church from 820 onwards. The construction of the Collegiate Church in its present form - it is one of the last monumental sacred buildings of the late Baroque period - was planned by Gabriel Loser and Johann Caspar Bagnato. Its two 68-metre-high towers tower above the old town of St. Gallen.
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Cathedral, St. Gallen Several earlier structures preceded the monumental church. Originally, the chapel of Saint Gallus stood on this site, where the saint was buried around 640. Later buildings incorporated Gallus's tomb. Around 720 (the founding of the monastery), a stone church was built. By the 9th century, the church had already reached its present length. In the 15th century, a new choir in the Gothic style was constructed. In 1756, the monks embarked on the final phase of the church's reconstruction, which was completed in 1766. The renowned architect Johann Kaspar Bagnato played a significant role in the design, while Johann Michael Beer oversaw the construction. The patrons were Abbots Cölestin Gugger von Staudach and Beda Angehrn. After the dissolution of the monastery, the church became a cathedral (bishop's church) in 1824. The church underwent interior renovations from 1961 to 1967 and exterior renovations from 2000 to 2003. The church has an elongated, rectangular floor plan. Within this plan, a rotunda (round structure) is inserted, resembling a transept. On the eastern end, the striking twin-tower facade rises as a dominant feature, the emblem of the Diocese, City, and Canton of St. Gallen. The facade's sculptural decoration includes figures of Saints Maurice and Desiderius and a relief depicting the Coronation of the Virgin Mary by the Holy Trinity. The interior of the church is a three-aisled, free-pillared structure with a central dome (rotunda). High-quality stucco work, vault paintings, altars, and the choir stalls are among the highlights of the interior. The concept of harmoniously coordinated art forms is the work of Christian Wentzinger, sculptor and painter. Text / Source: City of St. Gallen, Town Hall, 9001 St. Gallen https://www.stadt.sg.ch/home/freizeit-tourismus/stgallen-entdecken/stiftsbezirk-unesco-weltkulturerbe.html
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Cordonbleu (restaurant) is especially recommended
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Highly recommended especially Cordon Bleu
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It's the Landsgemeindeplatz in Trogen. Appenzell has its own Landsgemeindeplatz 😀
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Schaukäserei, best veal cordon bleu I have ever eaten, lots of Appenzeller cheese... a feast for the palate....
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Restaurant Schaukäserei, best veal cordon bleu I have ever eaten, lots of Appenzeller cheese.... a culinary delight...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Gossau?
There are nearly 100 touring cycling routes around Gossau, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Gossau?
The terrain around Gossau is diverse, featuring a mix of paved and mixed-surface paths. You'll encounter gentle hills, scenic river valleys, and agricultural lands, with some routes offering more challenging climbs and significant elevation gains, especially towards the Appenzell Alps.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Gossau?
Yes, Gossau offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. One popular option is the Espel Viewing Platform – Gossau–Flawil Cycle Route loop from Gossau, which is 8.3 miles (13.3 km) long and features scenic views from the Espel Viewing Platform.
Which routes offer the best panoramic views or natural landmarks?
Many routes provide breathtaking views. For instance, the View of the Säntis North Face – Schwägalp Pass summit loop from Gossau offers stunning vistas of the Säntis mountain. The Espel Viewing Platform – Gossau–Flawil Cycle Route loop from Gossau also provides excellent scenic viewpoints. You can also find tranquil spots like the Horbacher pond on the Hauptwil Pond – Waldschenke Bischofszell loop from Gossau.
Are there any cultural or historical attractions accessible by touring bike in Gossau?
Absolutely. The Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) – View from the Ganggelibrugg loop from Gossau leads past the notable Haggen Bridge. Additionally, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Abbey District of St. Gallen, with its impressive cathedral and abbey library, is easily accessible by bike via routes like the View of the Sitter Viaduct – St. Gallen Cathedral loop from Gossau.
What are some interesting places to explore near the touring cycling routes?
Beyond the routes themselves, you can explore various nearby attractions. Consider visiting historical sites like Hagenwil Moated Castle or the Old Town Bischofszell. For natural wonders, the region also features several caves, such as Bruderloch Cave.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Gossau?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Gossau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Espel Viewing Platform – Gossau–Flawil Cycle Route loop from Gossau and the Hauptwil Pond – Waldschenke Bischofszell loop from Gossau.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Gossau?
The region is generally appealing for touring cycling from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. While some routes might be accessible in winter, many paths could be affected by snow or ice, especially at higher elevations.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Gossau?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 90 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, the scenic views of the Appenzell Alps and the Sitter river, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels.
Are there more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Gossau offers routes with significant elevation gains. The View of the Säntis North Face – Schwägalp Pass summit loop from Gossau is a difficult route covering 65.6 km with over 1100 meters of ascent, providing a strenuous but rewarding experience.
Can I find routes that pass through vineyards or charming villages?
Yes, the Eastern Swiss Wine Route passes through the area, guiding cyclists past vineyards and scenic landscapes. Many touring routes also lead through charming villages, offering opportunities to stop at cozy inns and experience local culture.
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