Attractions and Places To See around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser are found in the Toggenburg region of Switzerland, situated between the Säntis massif and the seven Churfirsten peaks. This area offers a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The region is known for its natural beauty and serves as a starting point for various hiking and cycling routes.
Best attractions and places to see around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser
- The most popular attractions is Seealpsee, a lake that offers a beautiful mountain panorama in the Alpstein. This location is known for its bright green sparkling water and surrounding hiking trails.
- Another must-see spot is Fählensee, a lake located in a narrow valley between mountain ridges. It is the third largest mountain lake in the canton of Appenzell and is ideal for cooling off after a hike.
- Visitors also love Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, a hut carved into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains. This historical site has existed since 1860 and offers panoramic views.
- Alt St. Johann is known for its mountain inns, scenic lakes, and summits. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including natural monuments and challenging trails.
- The attractions around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 2000 upvotes and nearly 2000 photos shared.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn
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Seealpsee
Highlight • Lake
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Säntis Summit (2,502 m)
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Fählensee
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Meglisalp Mountain Inn
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Tips from the Community
Our mountain guesthouse has seen many a proud face after the steep climb. The guesthouse, in its current form, has existed since 1860, making it one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. Pastor Ulmann was the first hermit to live in the hermitage in the Wildkirchli in 1658. More than 20 men followed his example until 1853, shaping the history of the Wildkirchli as hermits and first hosts. Since then, this mystical place has fascinated generations. Stories are told of little wild people who are said to have once lived in the Wildkirchli caves and come to the aid of the herdsmen. The Aescher inspires poets and artists to create new works. Bones of cave bears and stone tools bear witness to the cave as an ancient shelter. Source: https://aescher.ch/
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The Meglisalp is an alpine settlement in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. It lies at 1517 m above sea level in a flat hollow in the Alpstein region east of the Säntis. In the local dialect it is called [megli'salp]. The alp was already documented in the Middle Ages (1071 Megelinsalpa, ca. 1280 Megilins alpe).[1] The Meglisalp is a popular excursion destination in summer and can be reached from Wasserauen via the Seealpsee, among other places. In addition to the Meglisalp mountain inn, the settlement also has a chapel. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meglisalp
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Very beautiful mountain lake at 1447 m above sea level, which, like the Sämtiser and Seealpsee, is part of the Alpstein. Ideal for cooling off after a hike. When there is no wind, the mountains are beautifully reflected in the water.
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Walk up and enjoy the 360° view twice.
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At 2,502 meters, the Säntis is the highest mountain in the Alpstein Mountains. The Säntis lies on the border between the cantons of Appenzell Innerrhoden, Aargau, and St. Gallen. The mountains are composed of limestone and marl. The cable car takes hikers from Schwägalp up the mountain. Even in June, snow lies here and temperatures are icy. From the Säntis, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Alpstein Mountains, the Appenzellerland, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Constance.
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Actually a nice tour - until you get to the top of the building, because this clearly disturbs the view. The all-round view on the summit is good again, only often a bit crowded.
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Probably the most famous mountain inn in Switzerland and well worth a visit. Accessible from Wasserauen via the steep hiking trail or easier with the cable car and then a short descent via the Wildkirchli.
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Aescher mountain inn The mountain inn has existed since 1846 Where hermits, cavemen and bears once lived. The inn on the mountain has seen many a proud face after the steep climb. The inn in its current form has existed since 1860, making it one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. Pastor Ulmann was the first hermit to live in the hermitage in Wildkirchli in 1658. More than 20 men followed his example until 1853 and shaped the history of the Wildkirchli as hermits and first hosts. Since then, the mystical place has fascinated generations. Stories are told about little wild people who are said to have once lived in the Wildkirchli caves and came to the aid of the herdsmen. The Aescher inspires poets and artists to create new works. Bones of cave bears and stone tools bear witness to the cave as an ancient shelter. Text / Source: Aescher – Gasthaus am Berg https://aescher.ch/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit stunning mountain lakes like Seealpsee, known for its bright green water and mountain panorama, or Fählensee, nestled in a narrow valley. The majestic Churfirsten peaks and the Säntis massif dominate the landscape, offering impressive views. The entire Toggenburg Valley is a scenic area perfect for outdoor activities.
Are there any historical or unique cultural sites to visit?
Absolutely. A must-see is the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, a historical site carved into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains since 1860. The region also features the unique Toggenburg Sound Trail (Klangweg), an interactive experience focused on sound and nature, and the Klangschmiede Alt St. Johann, a 'sound forge' offering cultural insights.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available?
Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser are excellent starting points for hiking. You can find a variety of trails, from moderate to challenging, leading to places like Säntis Summit (2,502 m) for panoramic views or to mountain inns like Meglisalp Mountain Inn. The region is part of the scenic Toggenburg Valley, offering numerous routes. For more detailed options, explore the running and hiking guides for the area.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking in the area?
Yes, the region is very popular for both mountain biking and road cycling. There are numerous routes catering to different skill levels, taking you through diverse terrain with stunning views. You can find detailed MTB trails and road cycling routes around Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser.
What activities are available for families with children?
The region is family-friendly. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is listed as family-friendly, offering an exciting destination. The Toggenburg Sound Trail (Klangweg) and the Toggenburg Story Trail provide interactive and engaging experiences for all ages. Additionally, sled dog experiences are offered in Alt St. Johann, providing unique animal encounters.
What is the best time of year to visit Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the lakes. Winter (December to March) transforms the area into Eastern Switzerland's largest winter sports region, perfect for skiing and tobogganing. Spring and autumn offer quieter experiences with beautiful scenery, though some cable cars might have maintenance closures.
Are there cable cars to access the mountain peaks?
Yes, cable cars provide access to higher elevations. Alt St. Johann is known for the valley station of the Sellamatt cable car, and the valley station to Iltios and the Churfirsten Chäserrugg is nearby in Unterwasser. These are essential for accessing hiking trails and ski slopes. Note that the Säntis cable car is undergoing renewal until late autumn 2026.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in the region?
Visitors are captivated by the pristine beauty of the mountain lakes. Seealpsee is praised for its stunning mountain panorama, bright green sparkling water, and the surrounding hiking trails. Fählensee is cherished for its serene setting in a narrow valley and is considered ideal for cooling off after a hike, with beautiful reflections of the mountains on calm days.
Are there places to eat or stay overnight in the mountains?
Yes, the region features several mountain inns that offer food and sometimes accommodation. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is a famous spot for a meal with panoramic views. The Meglisalp Mountain Inn, recently renovated, is known for its good food and options for overnight stays, nestled in a beautiful alpine village setting.
What kind of winter sports are available in Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser?
In winter, Alt St. Johann is a key part of Eastern Switzerland's largest winter sports area. It offers 50 km of ski slopes for various skill levels and a 6 km long toboggan run. The Chäserrugg - Unterwasser/Alt St. Johann Ski Area is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Are there any unique animal experiences in the area?
Yes, Alt St. Johann offers unique sled dog experiences, such as 'Sled dogs in the Toggenburg' and 'Huskystuff dogsled day tours'. These activities provide a special way to interact with animals and explore the winter landscape.
What are the prominent mountain ranges in the vicinity?
Alt St. Johann is beautifully situated between two prominent mountain ranges: the majestic Säntis massif and the seven Churfirsten peaks. Chäserrugg, part of the Churfirsten range, is particularly notable for its impressive panoramic views and recreational opportunities.
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Most popular attractions around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser
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