Best castles around Schwende offer a glimpse into the rich history of the Appenzell Innerrhoden canton. This region, characterized by its alpine landscape, features several historical fortifications. These sites provide insights into medieval architecture and the area's past conflicts. Exploring these castles allows visitors to connect with the cultural heritage of Schwende and its surroundings.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
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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 Construction History of Tostner Castle There is a very interesting assumption about Tostner Castle that it was a large, unfinished castle complex, of which only the ring wall, dating from the end of the 12th century/beginning of the 13th century, was built. The present keep, gatehouse, and palace (possibly also outbuildings) were built into these in the second half of the 13th century. This theory is supported primarily by the truly remarkable placement of the palace, which was placed right above the ring wall and occupies a remarkable position within the castle complex. During the Appenzell Wars, which raged heavily in this region, Tostner Castle was also severely damaged in 1405, but was rebuilt after 1408. The very spacious, yet sparsely built castle complex, was abandoned before 1616 and has since fallen into disrepair. The keep was restored in 1938/39, and extensive renovations followed in 1974 and 1980. Text / Source: Tosters Castle Ruins Tourist Information, Schlossergasse 8, A-6800 Feldkirch http://www.burgenkunde.at/vorarlberg/vbg_Burgruine_Tosters/vbg_Burgruine_Tosters.htm
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Wiechenstein Castle Ruins, a former four-story castle in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley.
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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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Great castle ruins with a tower visible from far away.
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The region boasts several castles with rich histories. Tosters Castle Ruins, built around 1260, played a role in the Appenzell War. Untere Burg Schellenberg, dating back to around 1250, offers a glimpse into medieval life. Additionally, Appenzell Castle, built in 1563, is a Swiss heritage site of national significance, and the ruins of Clanx Castle were once the largest in Appenzell Innerrhoden, destroyed during the Appenzell Wars.
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. Tosters Castle Ruins and Blatten Castle Ruins are both categorized as family-friendly. Blatten Castle even features a castle restaurant open from April to September, making it a great spot for a day out with children.
For scenic views, consider visiting Tosters Castle Ruins, Blatten Castle Ruins, and Wildenburg Castle Ruins. These sites are known for their elevated positions, offering expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely. The Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruin is particularly unique, as it was a former four-story castle built directly into a cave. It features a preserved shield wall and offers access to the cave via a forest path, providing a distinct historical and natural experience.
The area around Schwende offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find many hiking routes, including trails that lead to or past castle ruins. There are also road cycling routes and running trails available, allowing you to combine historical exploration with physical activity.
Yes, many hiking trails in the region allow you to explore the castles. For example, the Wichenstein Cave Castle Ruin is accessed via a forest path, and Blatten Castle Ruins are idyllically situated on the edge of a forest, with a fitness trail nearby. You can find various hiking routes around Schwende that pass by these historical sites.
Visiting during spring, summer, or early autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins and enjoying the surrounding nature. The castle restaurant at Blatten Castle Ruins is open from April to September, which might influence your timing if you plan to visit there.
Yes, at Blatten Castle Ruins, there is a castle restaurant operated by the Oberriet Ski Club, open from April to September. This provides a convenient option for refreshments during your visit.
Archaeological excavations at Clanx Castle, for instance, uncovered various artifacts including ceramic figures, vessel fragments, and parts of weapons, providing insights into daily life and conflicts from its medieval past.
The castles around Schwende are highly appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 110 upvotes and over 140 photos shared by visitors. This indicates a strong community interest in their historical significance, unique features like cave castles, and the beautiful natural settings they are often found in.
Appenzell Castle, while a significant historical landmark and a Swiss heritage site, is privately owned by the Sutter family. It may not offer public tours in the same way as a museum, but its historical significance and unique past as both a private residence and a doctor's practice make it a notable landmark in the Appenzell District. You can find more information about its history on Wikipedia.


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