Top 10 Castles around Appenzell Innerrhoden
Best castles around Appenzell Innerrhoden provide a glimpse into the canton's medieval past. This region, known for its landscapes and traditional culture, features historical sites and fortifications. Visitors can explore various castle ruins that reflect the area's historical development. These sites offer insights into medieval conflicts and defensive strategies.
Best castles around Appenzell Innerrhoden
- The most popular castles is Hohensax Castle Ruins, a castle that offers a view of the surrounding mountain peaks. The main tower and one wall are still standing.
- Another must-see spot is Clanx Castle Ruins, a historical site. This location offers views over the Alpstein and the hilly Appenzellerland, with two grilling areas available.
- Visitors also love Wildenburg Castle Ruins, a castle ruin with a view and barbecue area. The Wildenburg was built around 1200 and was restored and officially opened in 2013.
- Appenzell Innerrhoden is known for castle ruins, historical fortifications, and cave castles. Visitors can explore sites ranging from well-preserved remnants to archaeological discoveries.
- The castles around Appenzell Innerrhoden are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 150 upvotes and more than 130 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Appenzell Village
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It is the capital of the half-canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden!
appenzell.ch/de/dorf-appenzell/sehens-wuerdigkeiten.html
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Blatten Castle Ruins
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Blatten Castle is a ruined castle in the municipality of Oberriet, in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. The square keep stands not far from the Rhine on a rock south of the municipality of Oberriet.
The family was first mentioned in 1170 with Burkardus de Blattûn and in 1229 with Ulricus de Blattenn. As chronicler Christian Kuchimeister reports, the castle was built shortly before 1270 by the Abbot of St. Gallen, Berchtold von Falkenstein, as protection against the Counts of Montfort-Werdenberg, in the territory of the Imperial Court of Kriessern, which, along with the Vogtherrschaft (reign of Thurgau and Zürichgau), had been granted to Heinrich Walter von Ramschwag (Lords of Ramschwag) in 1278 for his assistance to King Rudolf in the Battle of Marchfeld. It was then granted to Ulrich von Ramschwag in 1277.
Due to his involvement in the Appenzell War, the castle and the lordship were temporarily confiscated as fiefs. In 1458, Walter Heinrich and Ulrich von Ramschwag sold the castle and estate to Jakob Mangold, a citizen of Constance. In 1486, it was repurchased by Abbot Ulrich Rösch of St. Gallen. From 1637 to 1640, Abbot Pius Reher commissioned renovations. The complex then served as the official residence of the Vögte von Kriessern until 1798. The castle was destroyed in the French War of Independence in 1799. Around 1911, part of the complex was used as a quarry.
Plaque commemorating the restoration.
The Canton of St. Gallen undertook the initial renovation of the tower. Further restorations were carried out on the tower in 1977 and on the surrounding walls and the remains of the castle gate in 1985.
Aerial photograph (2016)
The castle ruins are known to the people of the Rhine Valley as Blatten Castle. The grounds of the former castle complex and the interior of the tower (there are no longer any floors) are freely accessible. A later-built wooden building stands on top of the preserved vaulted cellar. This building is operated as a castle restaurant by the Oberriet Ski Club from April to September.
Text / Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Blatten
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Wildenburg Castle Ruins
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The Wildenburg was built around 1200 by the Barons of Sax. In 1313 it was sold to Count Frederick IV of Toggenburg, and in 1439 it came to the Lords of Raron by inheritance. In 1468 it was sold to the St. Gallen monastery. Shortly after 1660, the Wildenburg was struck by lightning and burned down.
Since 1998 the Wildenburg has belonged to the political municipality of Wildhaus, today Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann.
The southern wall is secured
In January 2011, work began on renovating the completely overgrown ruins of the Wildenburg, which were threatened with decay. Around 80 cubic meters, 60 tons of wood were felled and flown away by helicopter and sold. The deficit was borne by the foundation of a holiday guest from Zurich. The restored Wildenburg was officially opened in July 2013.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wildenburg_(Wildhaus)
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Clanx Castle Ruins
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Hohensax Castle Ruins
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Then continue on the high trail towards Chueweid. (One of the most beautiful trails !!)
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Blatten Castle Ruins, Oberriet / Oberriet's Landmark Obert's landmark, once a proud castle fortress, has a rich history. It was built around 1230 by Abbot Berchtold von Falkenstein to defend his property. The castle has seen several landowners and was set on fire in 1799 during the battle for the Blatten ferry. The surviving remains consist of parts of the tower and the castle ramparts, as well as the vaulted cellar. The castle ruins are located in the southernmost part of the municipality of Oberriet on the Blattenberg, idyllically situated on the edge of the forest. On the fitness trail, which runs almost entirely through the forest, you can practice sports in complete harmony with nature. The castle restaurant is open from April to September. Members of the ski club host guests every Sunday and welcome visitors. The hut can be rented by the public from Monday to Saturday. Tours are welcome on Sundays. Text / Source: Municipality of Oberriet https://www.oberriet.ch/sehenswuerdigkeiten/7474
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Platten Castle, Oberriet Blatten Castle is a ruined castle in the municipality of Oberriet, in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. The square keep stands not far from the Rhine on a rock south of the municipality of Oberriet. The family was first mentioned in 1170 with Burkardus de Blattûn and in 1229 with Ulricus de Blattenn. As chronicler Christian Kuchimeister reports, the castle was built shortly before 1270 by the Abbot of St. Gallen, Berchtold von Falkenstein, as protection against the Counts of Montfort-Werdenberg, in the territory of the Imperial Court of Kriessern, which, along with the Vogtherrschaft (reign of Thurgau and Zürichgau), had been granted to Heinrich Walter von Ramschwag (Lords of Ramschwag) in 1278 for his assistance to King Rudolf in the Battle of Marchfeld. It was then granted to Ulrich von Ramschwag in 1277. Due to his involvement in the Appenzell War, the castle and the lordship were temporarily confiscated as fiefs. In 1458, Walter Heinrich and Ulrich von Ramschwag sold the castle and estate to Jakob Mangold, a citizen of Constance. In 1486, it was repurchased by Abbot Ulrich Rösch of St. Gallen. From 1637 to 1640, Abbot Pius Reher commissioned renovations. The complex then served as the official residence of the Vögte von Kriessern until 1798. The castle was destroyed in the French War of Independence in 1799. Around 1911, part of the complex was used as a quarry. Plaque commemorating the restoration. The Canton of St. Gallen undertook the initial renovation of the tower. Further restorations were carried out on the tower in 1977 and on the surrounding walls and the remains of the castle gate in 1985. Aerial photograph (2016) The castle ruins are known to the people of the Rhine Valley as Blatten Castle. The grounds of the former castle complex and the interior of the tower (there are no longer any floors) are freely accessible. A later-built wooden building stands on top of the preserved vaulted cellar. This building is operated as a castle restaurant by the Oberriet Ski Club from April to September. Text / Source: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Blatten
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The main tower and one wall are still standing. The rock is very striking, and the surrounding area, with several barbecue areas, is very beautiful!
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Great castle ruin with a view and barbecue area.
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Lots of great things, fitness trail, barbecue area and much more...
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Blatten Castle is a castle ruin in the municipality of Oberriet, in the canton of St. Gallen in Switzerland. The square keep stands not far from the Rhine on a rock south of the municipality of Oberriet. Source: Wikipedia
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Very beautifully situated with a beautiful view, a small detour from the 86 Rheintaler Höhenweg, it's worth it.
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Very beautiful viewpoint over the Appenzell region with the Aplstein massif, with the Clanx castle ruins, also Appenzell Castle, mentioned in a document around 1219, owned by the Barons von Sax from the St. Gallen abbot Ulrich.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore in Appenzell Innerrhoden?
Appenzell Innerrhoden primarily features castle ruins and historical fortifications, offering a glimpse into its medieval past. You'll find sites like the significant Clanx Castle Ruins, once the largest in the canton, and the more mysterious remains of Hoch-Altstätten Castle. There are also unique sites such as the Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruins.
Are there any well-preserved castles or are they mostly ruins?
The region is predominantly known for its castle ruins rather than fully preserved castles. While the standing Appenzell Castle (also known as Schloss von Appenzell) is a rare 16th-century stone building and private residence, most sites like Hohensax Castle Ruins and Wildenburg Castle Ruins are ruins that have been partially restored or secured.
Which castle ruins offer the best views?
Many of the castle ruins in Appenzell Innerrhoden are situated to offer scenic vistas. The Clanx Castle Ruins provide wonderful views over the Alpstein and the hilly Appenzellerland. Similarly, Hohensax Castle Ruins offer a view of the surrounding mountain peaks, and Wildenburg Castle Ruins also boast a great view.
Are there family-friendly castle sites in the region?
Yes, several castle sites are suitable for families. The Clanx Castle Ruins are considered family-friendly and even feature two grilling areas. Blatten Castle Ruins also fall into the family-friendly category and have a castle restaurant open seasonally.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Appenzell Innerrhoden is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes. For hiking, explore trails like the 'Hike above Lake Seealpsee – Wildkirchli and Äscher' or 'Unforgettable Alpstein views – Seealpsee up to Rossmad and Meglisalp'. Cycling options include routes like 'Potersalp – Rural idyll!' or 'View of the Alpstein Mountains'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Appenzell Innerrhoden.
Are there hiking trails that lead to the castle ruins?
Yes, many castle ruins are accessible via hiking trails. For example, the Blatten Castle Ruins are located on the edge of a forest, accessible via a fitness trail. The ascent to the Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruins is a steep but rewarding hike. The Hohensax Castle Ruins also involve a steep path.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Appenzell Innerrhoden?
The spring, summer, and autumn months (April to October) are generally the best times to visit. During these periods, the weather is more favorable for exploring the outdoor ruins and enjoying the surrounding hiking trails. Some castle restaurants, like the one at Blatten Castle Ruins, are also open seasonally from April to September.
Are there facilities like barbecue areas near the castle ruins?
Yes, some castle ruins offer amenities for visitors. The Clanx Castle Ruins have two grilling areas with grates (you'll need to bring your own wood). Hohensax Castle Ruins also feature a fire pit with wood, and Wildenburg Castle Ruins include a barbecue area.
Can I find food and drink options near the castle sites?
While not all ruins have direct facilities, the Blatten Castle Ruins host a castle restaurant operated by the Oberriet Ski Club, open from April to September. For other sites, it's advisable to bring your own provisions or visit nearby villages like Appenzell, which offer various restaurants and cafes.
What makes Hoch-Altstätten Castle unique?
Hoch-Altstätten Castle is unique because it is largely a 'forgotten castle' with barely visible remains, appealing to those interested in historical mysteries and archaeology. Despite its ruined state, archaeological discoveries of thick walls and a rock-hewn cellar provide a glimpse into its formidable past, making it a site for imaginative historical exploration.
How accessible are the castle ruins by public transport or car?
Accessibility varies by site. Many castle ruins are located in natural settings, requiring some walking or hiking to reach. For example, the ascent to Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruins is only possible on foot. For specific public transport options or parking availability, it's best to check local information for each individual castle site.
Are dogs allowed on trails leading to the castle ruins?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Appenzell Innerrhoden, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or near livestock. Specific rules might apply to certain castle grounds, so check local signage.
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