Top 18 Gorges around Vilters-Wangs

The region is home to impressive natural wonders. The Tamina Gorge is famous for its 36.5°C thermal springs, which have been recognized for their healing properties for centuries. You can also visit the Tamina Thermal Spring, the source of these healing waters. The Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) offers a unique microclimate that supports specific flora and fauna, creating a mysterious atmosphere.

Yes, the Tamina Gorge features a 450-meter-long secured path that leads to the spring water grotto, allowing for an up-close experience of the narrow crevice. The path to the Tamina Thermal Spring itself is also suitable for prams and wheelchairs, though you might need to request for a large gate to be opened for access.

The Geissbergtobel Gorge (Schluchtenweg Sevelen) offers a 3.5 km circular hiking trail, providing a varied experience through its unique environment. The Tamina Gorge also has numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty that lead through the spectacular nature and offer impressive views over the Tamina Valley.

While the immediate Vilters-Wangs area is more known for its scenic gorges and thermal springs, active canyoning experiences involving abseiling and jumping are available in the wider St. Gallen region. For example, the Amden Canyon, near Amden, offers organized canyoning tours suitable for various skill levels, including an impressive abseil along a 40-meter dam.

The Tamina Gorge is rich in history. It's famous for its thermal springs, whose healing properties have been recognized since the 13th century. At the gorge, you can also find the Old Bath Pfäfers, Switzerland's oldest Baroque spa, which now functions as a museum, restaurant, and cultural venue.

Visitors frequently praise the mysterious atmosphere of the Geissbergtobel Gorge and the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The Tamina Gorge is highly appreciated for its wild and romantic setting, the unique thermal springs, and the accessible path that allows for an immersive experience. The historical significance of the thermal springs also adds to the appeal.

In summer, the mystical Tamina Gorge is often illuminated by a special light spectacle called "Light Ragaz," which enhances the visitor experience and creates a magical ambiance.

Beyond exploring the gorges, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring bicycle, gravel biking, and road cycling options. For example, explore routes like the Lourdes Grotto in Mels or the Old Rhine Bridge Vaduz–Sevelen. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Vilters-Wangs, Gravel biking around Vilters-Wangs, and Road Cycling Routes around Vilters-Wangs guides.

The Tamina Gorge is easily accessible from Bad Ragaz on foot or via postbus. A postbus also runs to Alt Bad Pfäfers, which is near the thermal spring. The path to the spring itself is suitable for prams and wheelchairs.

Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Tamina Gorge. It is typically 5 CHF, and you will need to have change for the automat at the entrance.

Some areas, like the Steep couloir section with ladder, can be demanding. This section is a narrow, exposed path in a couloir, well-secured with ropes and a ladder, but requires a head for heights and surefootedness. Dogs can often pass next to the ladder, possibly with some assistance.

The gorges offer unique experiences throughout the year. Summer allows for the "Light Ragaz" spectacle in the Tamina Gorge and comfortable hiking. The cool, humid climate of the Geissbergtobel Gorge can be particularly refreshing during warmer months, and the thermal springs are enjoyable year-round.