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Switzerland
Eastern Switzerland
St. Gallen
Sarganserland

Pfäfers

The best walks and hikes around Pfäfers

4.7

(352)

2,429

hikers

75

hikes

Hiking around Pfäfers offers diverse terrain, from the dramatic Tamina Gorge to panoramic mountain summits. The region is characterized by deep river gorges, thermal springs, and expansive mountain meadows. Hikers can explore open mountain forests, high plateaus, and enjoy views of the St. Gallen and Chur Rhine Valleys. The landscape includes notable viewpoints like the Pizalun Summit and offers glimpses of the majestic Pizol.

Best hiking trails in Pfäfers

  • The most popular hiking route is Pizalun round tour, a…

Last updated: May 7, 2026

4.6

(82)

510

hikers

#1.

Pizalun round tour

7.03km

02:12

250m

250m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Hard

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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Hiking Collection by

Tamara (unterwegs)

Tips from the Community

Lutzi_P
September 8, 2025, Sankt Martin Berghotel & Alpwirtschaft

A place steeped in history with lots of interesting information about the settlement of the Calfeisen and Taminatal by the Walser people.

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Nicely done

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Unique Beautiful nature

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Beautiful museum from old times

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Natural Bridge in the Tamina Gorge There are two possible explanations for how the Tamina River carved its gorge out of the rock over the past 15,000 years: First, the river carved its way through the seven-meter-thick nummulite limestone, which forms the natural bridges, in a narrow channel. As the water pushed into the softer Seewer slate below, this promoted the formation of a stronger valley. As the Tamina River cut diagonally in an eastward direction, the western wall is said to have tilted slightly, thus wedging the nummulite limestone banks against each other, creating the natural bridges. It is also conceivable, however, that the Tamina River carved its way beneath the harder limestone, and the gorge is actually a cave. However, the most important outcrops of this at the natural bridges are neither accessible nor visible. The Swiss geologist Albert Heim was convinced: "No other gorge in the Swiss Alps surpasses it in grandeur." Text / Source: When the water penetrated the softer Seewer slate below, this promoted stronger valley formation. As the Tamina River cut diagonally in an eastward direction, the western wall is said to have tilted slightly, wedging the nummulite limestone banks against each other, creating the natural bridges. It is also conceivable, however, that the Tamina River eroded beneath the harder limestone, and that the gorge is actually a cave. However, the most important outcrops of this at the natural bridges are neither accessible nor visible. The Swiss geologist Albert Heim was convinced: "No other gorge in the Swiss Alps surpasses it in grandeur." https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taminaschlucht#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20ways%20of%20the%20Tamina,seven%20meters%20thick%20nummulite%20limestone%20which%20forms%20the%20natural%20bridges.

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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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Tamina Gorge - 36.5°C, 8,000 liters per minute. Two hunters from the nearby Pfäfers Monastery discovered the healing Tamina spring in 1240. Therefore, the healing properties of Pfäfers' spring water were recognized early on. Initially, the sick bathed in rock depressions, and from 1350 onwards, in wooden bathhouses across the roaring Tamina. Access to the gorge was difficult: those who could climbed ladders. The rest abseiled into the gorge in baskets – blindfolded to combat their fear. Today, the Tamina Gorge can be explored much more comfortably. From Bad Ragaz, a leisurely one-hour hike leads to the Old Baths of Pfäfers. Halfway through, you pass under the largest arched bridge in Switzerland, the Tamina Bridge. Those who don't want to walk can take the post bus or the Rösslipost (horse-drawn carriage). The entrance to the mystical gorge is located just behind the historic building. A tunnel secures the 450-meter-long path through the rock to the spring water grotto. Here, the Tamina spring bubbles continuously from the rock, day and night, at a temperature of 36.5°C, and 8,000 liters per minute. Text / Source: Switzerland Tourism https://www.myswitzerland.com/de-ch/erlebnisse/tamina-schlucht-und-altes-bad-pfaefers/

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Paul
June 23, 2025, Tamina Schlucht

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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in Pfäfers?

The Pfäfers region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 75 trails to choose from. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain routes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Pfäfers?

Hiking around Pfäfers offers incredibly diverse terrain. You'll find dramatic deep river gorges like the Tamina Gorge, expansive mountain meadows, and open mountain forests. Higher up, trails lead to panoramic summits and high plateaus, providing views of the St. Gallen and Chur Rhine Valleys, and glimpses of the majestic Pizol.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Pfäfers?

Yes, Pfäfers has several easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. One popular option is the Tamina Gorge – Tamina Gorge Thermal Spring loop from Feuerwehrdepot Valens, which is 4.8 km long and leads through the mystical Tamina Gorge, offering cool, shady sections. Another easy, one-hour hike connects Bad Ragaz to the historic Altes Bad Pfäfers.

Where can I find more challenging hikes in the Pfäfers region?

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Pfäfers offers several demanding routes, particularly within the UNESCO Sardona Tectonic Arena. Trails like the View Above the Tree Line – View of Piz Sardona loop from Stausee Gigerwald (20.8 km) or the Sardona Hut – View of Piz Sardona loop from Stausee Gigerwald (22.7 km) provide significant elevation gain and stunning high-alpine scenery.

Can I hike to the Tamina Gorge in Pfäfers?

Absolutely! The Tamina Gorge is one of the region's highlights. You can hike directly into the gorge to experience its narrow, deep rock crevices and the 36.5°C thermal spring. The Tamina Gorge – Tamina Gorge Thermal Spring loop from Feuerwehrdepot Valens is an excellent way to explore this unique natural wonder.

Are there any waterfalls to see on hikes around Pfäfers?

Yes, the Pfäfers area is home to beautiful waterfalls. You can discover natural spectacles like the Segnesboden Waterfall or the impressive Batöni Waterfall Arena. Some trails also lead through the Flem Gorge and Waterfalls, offering a refreshing experience.

What historical or cultural sites can I explore while hiking in Pfäfers?

Beyond its natural beauty, Pfäfers offers rich historical and cultural sites. You can visit the Altes Bad Pfäfers, Switzerland's oldest preserved Baroque bathhouse, located at the entrance to the Tamina Gorge. The ruins of Wartenstein Castle, dating back to 1206, are also visible from certain trails. The village of Pfäfers itself features an impressive Baroque monastery church.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in Pfäfers?

Pfäfers offers several trails suitable for families. The easy hike to the Altes Bad Pfäfers is a good choice, and the Tamina Gorge – Tamina Gorge Thermal Spring loop is also manageable for families, providing an exciting natural experience. Many mountain meadows and forest trails are gentle enough for children.

Are there any circular hiking routes in Pfäfers?

Yes, many trails in Pfäfers are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Pizalun round tour is a popular moderate circular hike offering panoramic views. The View of Piz Sardona – St. Martin Chapel loop from Stausee Gigerwald is another excellent circular option through mountain landscapes.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Pfäfers?

The hiking trails in Pfäfers are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the dramatic gorges to the panoramic mountain views, and appreciate the well-maintained paths and variety of routes available.

Is public transport available to reach hiking trails in Pfäfers?

Yes, public transport is a convenient way to access many hiking trails in Pfäfers. Private vehicle access to areas like the Tamina Gorge and Altes Bad Pfäfers is restricted, making post-buses and horse-drawn carriages popular alternatives. This helps maintain the tranquil outdoor experience.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pfäfers?

The best time to hike in Pfäfers is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is most favorable, and all trails, including those into the Tamina Gorge and to higher alpine areas, are typically accessible. Autumn offers particularly stunning colors in the mountain forests.

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