Best attractions and places to see around Flawil, a town in St. Gallen, Switzerland, offers a mix of cultural sites and natural landscapes. The region is characterized by its charming setting and opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can find historical landmarks, scenic natural features, and points of interest. The surrounding countryside provides terrain suitable for hiking and nature walks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Highlight • Bridge
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The baroque old town boasts sights such as the town hall, built between 1747 and 1750, with its rich Rococo decorations, and the 14th-century Church of St. Pelagius. The Thur Bridge, built in 1487, is one of the most important late medieval bridges in Switzerland. In the 9th century, Bischofszell was given the name Episcopalicella by its founder, Bishop Salomo. This translates as "the bishop's cell." Bischofszell Castle was the bishop's castle and dates back to the 13th century.
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When visibility is good, you have a great all-round view.
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If the weather is good, you will be rewarded for the climb (moderately difficult for inexperienced hikers). The view is fantastic. The inn is closed on Mondays, but otherwise you can enjoy simple but delicious meals on a wonderful terrace.
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There are hikes in all directions, but always with a view of the Säntis.
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About beautiful and wild Silversterchläuse Every year on December 31st and January 13th, peculiar figures parade through the hinterland of the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. Some wear decorated hats, others wear frightening animal masks. They are «Silversterchläuse», who ring out the old year and welcome the new. «Silvesterchlausen» in Urnäsch and the surrounding area, alongside the Alpfahrt, is one of the Appenzeller customs known throughout Switzerland. The custom draws its fascination from the unique combination of opposites such as nature and art, mystery and tradition, as well as harmony and anarchy. Text / Source: Schweizerisches Nationalmuseum, Landesmuseum Zürich, Museumstrasse 2, 8021 Zürich https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/2021/12/von-schoenen-und-wuesten-silversterchlaeusen/
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Urnäsch is the family-friendly village for living, working, and holidays in the Appenzellerland, at the foot of the Säntis massif. The landscape shapes the heart and soul of our village. Life in Urnäsch is characterized by lived traditions, such as Silvesterklausen (New Year's Eve customs), Jodel singing, and alpine transhumance. Around 2300 inhabitants live on 48 km2 of intact landscape, of whom almost 900 employees also work in our municipality, whether in agriculture, industry and trade, or the service sector. Innovative industrial, trade, and agricultural businesses, social institutions, as well as gentle tourism contribute to the economic development of our municipality. Text /Source: Urnäsch Municipal Administration, Dorfplatz 1, 9107 Urnäsch https://urnaesch.ch/oesers-dorf/urnasch/
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Really great, varied, easily accessible hiking trails lead to the Höhi, from all sides of course. There is a barbecue area, a restaurant, and overnight accommodation is possible. When the visibility is good, you can see as far as Appenzellerland, Lake Constance, the Alpstein chain and the Bernese Alps.
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For families, the Wissbach Gorge Trail is a highly recommended destination, featuring a covered wooden walkway that makes it safe and enjoyable for children. Maestrani's Chocolarium also offers an immersive and interactive experience for all ages, focusing on Swiss chocolate making. Additionally, the Flawil Zoo is consistently mentioned as a must-see family attraction.
Flawil offers several historical and cultural sites. The Old Town Bischofszell is a significant historical site with a baroque town hall. Within Flawil itself, you can visit the Flawil Museum of Local History (Lindengut) to learn about the region's textile past, or see historical landmarks like the Old Town Hall, Hirschen Inn, and the Protestant and Catholic Churches of St. Laurentius.
Yes, Flawil is surrounded by beautiful countryside perfect for hiking. The Wissbach Gorge Trail is a popular and scenic option. For more extensive hiking, you can explore various routes, including the Wissbach Gorge Trail – Schwänberg Bridge loop. Find more hiking routes in the area on the Hiking around Flawil guide.
The Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi offers fantastic views of the Alps and is an ideal spot for a break. Additionally, bridges like the Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) and the Thur Suspension Bridge near Thurau provide scenic perspectives over rivers and landscapes.
The Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering a pedestrian-friendly experience over the Sitter river with great views.
The region's natural beauty is best enjoyed during warmer months. For trails like the Wissbach Gorge Trail, summer is ideal, with tips even suggesting bringing a swimming costume. The surrounding countryside is generally pleasant for hiking and nature walks from spring through autumn.
Yes, the area around Flawil offers various cycling opportunities. The Thur Suspension Bridge near Thurau is part of a very nice bike area with easier forest trails. You can find more options, including MTB and road cycling routes, in the MTB Trails around Flawil and Road Cycling Routes around Flawil guides.
Flawil is home to Maestrani's Chocolarium, where you can immerse yourself in the world of Swiss chocolate making, observe live production, and enjoy tastings. Visiting a local cheese factory is also highlighted as a key part of exploring the region's culinary culture, with the nearby Appenzeller Schaukäserei often mentioned.
Flawil is well-connected by train, making it easily accessible from major Swiss cities like Zurich and St. Gallen. Once in Flawil, local public transport options can help you reach specific attractions, though some natural sites might require a short walk from the nearest stop.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical sites. The Wissbach Gorge Trail is loved for its wild romantic scenery and family-friendly covered walkway. The Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi is praised for its stunning Alpine views, while the Haggen Bridge is noted for its unique swaying experience and excellent bike path views.
Yes, Flawil is known for its interesting bridges. The Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) is a prominent steel truss pedestrian bridge over the Sitter river. Another notable structure is the Thur Suspension Bridge near Thurau. The historical Covered Wooden Bridge Flawil is also an architectural sight.
The region around Flawil is characterized by beautiful countryside, ideal for nature walks. The Wissbach Gorge Trail offers a wildly romantic side valley experience with a winding brook and forest. You'll find a mix of forests, rivers, and open landscapes perfect for outdoor exploration.


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