Top 20 Natural Monuments in Sarganserland
Natural monuments in Sarganserland showcase a diverse landscape characterized by alpine peaks, thermal springs, and deep gorges. This region in Eastern Switzerland is home to a significant portion of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona', revealing the geological history of the Alps. Visitors can explore a range of natural attractions, from high-alpine lakes to powerful waterfalls and unique rock formations. The area provides varied opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its natural beauty.
Best natural monuments in Sarganserland
…Last updated: May 12, 2026
Tamina Gorge
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Source of our thermal water
The Tamina spring is not only the namesake of our thermal spa, but …
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Wildseeluggen
Highlight • Lake
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Schottensee
Highlight • Lake
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Schwarzsee (Pizol)
Highlight • Lake
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Paxmal Peace Monument
Highlight • Monument
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Batöni Waterfall Arena
Highlight • Waterfall
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Stone Cairns at Rossstall
Highlight • Structure
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Wangsersee
Highlight • Lake
The Wangsersee is located in the St. Gallen communities of Bad Ragaz and Vilters-Wangs. The small mountain lake is not far from …
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Tamina Thermal Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
The path to the spring itself is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, but you have to ask …
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Pizol Summit
Highlight • Summit
PIZOLGIPFEL
Zum Pizolgipfel auf 2844 m ü. M. führt seit 2012 eine neue alpine Route. Diese ist aus Sicherheitsgründen vom Pizolgletscher in den Felsen verlegt worden und blau-weiss markiert. An Steinschlag-exponierten Stellen wurden zudem Stahlseile als Handlauf angebracht.
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very pretty here, very pretty, very pretty
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Tamina Gorge near Old Bad Pfäfers - 36.5°C, 8,000 liters per minute. Source of our thermal water The Tamina spring is not only the namesake of our thermal spa, but also the source of our healing spring water. Europe's most abundant thermal spring rises in the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz and was discovered in the early Middle Ages (in 1242). Mysterious Tamina Gorge In the Tamina Gorge between Valens and the hamlet of Bonadivis, the water of the Tamina River carves its way up to 200 meters into the earth. The narrow rock crevice of the Tamina Gorge is approximately 750 meters long and 70 meters deep. Near Old Bad Pfäfers, the gorge widens, and a road now connects Old Bad Pfäfers with the town of Bad Ragaz. Deep within the mystical Tamina Gorge beats its heart: the inexhaustible spring from which healing, body-temperature thermal water has bubbled for centuries. Among others, the physician and alchemist Paracelsus praised the healing properties of the spring water in the 16th century, which is considered an acratotherm due to its low mineral content and temperature of 36.5°C. Text / Source: TAMINA THERME AG, Hans Albrecht-Strasse, Bad Ragaz https://www.taminatherme.ch/thermalwasserwelt/taminaschlucht-thermalwasser
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very pretty here, very pretty
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The first lake on the 5-lake hike is not even signposted from the Pizolhütte, but it is worth a visit.
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A very popular ski tour summit, although most people only go as far as the saddle. The ascent to the summit sometimes requires crampons and an ice axe, especially when the safety ropes are still covered in snow. When there is good snow to walk on, like today, you can do without. However, the path is exposed. Great view from the summit cross.
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Wangser See, Pizol First lake on the famous 5-lake hike The Wangser See is the first lake on the famous 5-lake hike and can also be hiked from Laufböden, where it forms part of the 2-lake hike, which is particularly popular with families, together with the lower Vilterser Seeli. The Wangser See is beautifully nestled in a plateau, which always offers hikers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, both near and far. The Wangser See is also popular with fishermen; licenses are available at the valley stations of the Pizol cable cars. Text / Source: Heidiland Tourism https://outdoor.heidiland.com/de/punkt/see/wangser-see/38022706/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=embed&utm_campaign=embed-plugin-referral&utm_term=https%3A%2F%2Fpizol.com%2F
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Wangsersee, Pizol at 2205 meters above sea level The Wangsersee is located in the St. Gallen communities of Bad Ragaz and Vilters-Wangs. The small mountain lake is not far from the mountain station of the Pizolbahnen or the Pizolhütte at an altitude of 2205 meters above sea level. The Valaisbach flows down the valley from the Wangsersee. On the shores of the lake you have a magnificent view of the mountains in the Pizol area. The Wangsersee is also the start or end point of the five-lake hike, which also passes the Wildsee, the Schottensee, the Schwarzsee and the Baschalvasee. Text / Source: Schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/wangsersee/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique geological features can I explore in Sarganserland?
Sarganserland is home to a significant portion of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona'. This area offers profound insight into the formation of the Alps, showcasing extraordinary geological formations like the Glarus Thrust, unique rock folds at Sichelkamm, and steeply upright rock packages at Sächsmoor. The Vättner Window also helps explain the formation of the Tamina Valley.
Are there any dramatic gorges or thermal springs to visit in the region?
Yes, the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz is a must-see. It's renowned as the source of Europe's most abundant thermal spring, with 36.5°C water gushing out at 8,000 liters per minute. The Tamina River carves its way up to 200 meters into the earth, forming a mystical, narrow rock crevice. You can also visit the Tamina Thermal Spring itself.
Which high-alpine lakes are recommended for hikers in Sarganserland?
For hikers, the Pizol Five Lake Trail features several stunning alpine lakes. Schottensee is particularly known for its vibrant colors and the beautiful reflection of surrounding mountains. Another highlight on this trail is Wildseeluggen, offering unforgettable mountain views. The Schwarzsee (Pizol) is also notable for its almost jet-black appearance, contrasting with the other lakes.
What are some notable waterfalls in Sarganserland?
The Weisstannental valley is home to spectacular waterfalls, including the Batöni Waterfall Arena, which offers dramatic natural beauty. Additionally, the 46-meter-high Berschnerfall is well-hidden within a small ravine near Walenstadt, accessible via a hiking trail from Berschis.
Are there any family-friendly natural monuments or activities in Sarganserland?
While many natural monuments involve hiking, the Paxmal Peace Monument is categorized as family-friendly and offers a quiet, peaceful place for contemplation with beautiful views above Lake Walen. The Tamina Thermal Spring is also wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for families with strollers or those needing easier access.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available near Sarganserland's natural monuments?
Sarganserland offers diverse hiking opportunities. The famous Pizol Five Lake Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that connects several alpine lakes like Schottensee and Wildseeluggen. You can find more hiking routes, including the 'Batöni waterfall arena in the Weisstannental valley' and the 'Tamina Gorge Circular Trail', in the Hiking in Sarganserland guide.
Can I find any unique viewpoints or scenic spots in the region?
Absolutely. The Pizol Summit offers challenging climbs with expansive views. Lake Walen (Walensee) itself provides fjord-like scenery with the steeply towering Churfirsten mountains. The Stone Cairns at Rossstall also serve as a unique viewpoint.
What is special about Lake Walen (Walensee) in Sarganserland?
Lake Walen (Walensee) is distinctive for its deep blue waters and fjord-like scenery, bordered by the impressive Churfirsten mountains. It's often compared to a Norwegian fjord and features the car-free wine village of Quinten, making it ideal for relaxation, boat trips, and scenic walks.
Are there any other lakes besides those on the Pizol Five Lake Trail?
Yes, in addition to the lakes on the Pizol Five Lake Trail, Wangsersee is another beautiful lake in the region that offers scenic views and is appreciated by visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Sarganserland?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, especially the vibrant colors of the alpine lakes like Schottensee and Wildseeluggen, where mountains are beautifully reflected. The mystical atmosphere of the Tamina Gorge and the profound geological insights offered by the UNESCO World Heritage Site are also highly valued. The komoot community has shown its appreciation with over 370 upvotes and more than 570 photos of these attractions.
Are there mountain biking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, Sarganserland offers various mountain biking trails. For example, you can find routes like the 'Regitzer Spitz loop' or the 'View of Lake Walen (Walensee) – View of the Churfirsten loop'. More details on these and other routes are available in the MTB Trails in Sarganserland guide.
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