Attractions and Places To See around Altstätten - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Altstätten include a diverse range of landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Located in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley at the foot of the Alpstein massif, Altstätten is a historic rural town. Its historic town center features medieval and baroque architecture, while the surrounding region offers mountain lakes and panoramic viewpoints. The area combines historical significance with natural beauty, providing various points of interest for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Altstätten
- The most popular attractions is Seealpsee, a lake known for its picturesque panorama, free-roaming cows, and bright green sparkling water. It is a beautiful mountain lake nestled in the heart of the Alpstein.
- Another must-see spot is Fählensee, a lake situated in a narrow valley amidst the Alpstein mountains. Its clear waters reflect the surrounding mountain ridges, offering scenic views.
- Visitors also love Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, a historical mountain inn carved into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains. This site provides insights into regional history and offers a unique setting.
- Altstätten is known for its historic town center, mountain lakes, and panoramic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from cultural sites to natural wonders.
- The attractions around Altstätten are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2000 upvotes and nearly 2000 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Seealpsee
Highlight • Lake
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Hoher Kasten Summit
Highlight • Summit
Accordingly, you are rarely alone here.
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Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria
Highlight • Bridge
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Fählensee
Highlight • Lake
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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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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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Hoher Kasten – TOP OF APPENZELL On the Hoher Kasten, the Swiss lookout mountain, the mountains are at your feet. The Hoher Kasten cable car takes you from Brülisau to 1,794 meters above sea level in eight minutes, where unique views of six countries await you. You can experience the 360° panorama not only on the barrier-free European circular route, but also in the only revolving restaurant in Eastern Switzerland – culinary delights included. The Alpine Garden, the plant paradise on the summit, also leaves a lasting impression. Or do you want to discover the most beautiful hiking trails in the Alpstein from the Hoher Kasten? Text / Source: Hoher Kasten revolving restaurant, and cable car AG, Dorf 22, 9058 Brülisau https://www.hoherkasten.ch/
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Hoher Kasten revolving restaurant Just sit down and enjoy "rondom". In the only revolving restaurant in Eastern Switzerland on the Hoher Kasten, guests experience a limitless, changing 360° view. While the view stretches from the impressive backdrop of the Alpstein, across the lovely Appenzellerland to the expanse of Lake Constance, we spoil you with seasonal and regional specialties. The revolving restaurant is open daily from April to February during the cable car's operating hours and is easily accessible by lift for guests with limited mobility. Text / Source: Appenzellerland Tourismus AI, Hauptgasse 38, CH-9050 Appenzell https://www.appenzell.ch/de/alpstein/berggasthaeuser/drehrestaurant-hoher-kasten.html
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Small border crossing worth seeing
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Crossing the border without any problems, don't forget to take ID and francs with you. Furthermore, you are leaving the EU and are therefore subject to other customs regulations.
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A panaché approved at the restaurant and on my SFR. did I get EUROS as return money? I didn't realize that I was already 15m on Austrian soil!!!
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Before you cross from Austria to Switzerland at the wheel bridge, use the Austrian side for shopping, as it is cheaper here than in Switzerland. Also switch off the automatic search for the network on the cell phone (or switch off the cell phone), as telephone and roaming charges in Switzerland are VERY high.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Altstätten?
The region around Altstätten is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the stunning Seealpsee, a picturesque mountain lake known for its bright green water and free-roaming cows. Another beautiful mountain lake is Fählensee, nestled in a narrow valley amidst the Alpstein mountains. For panoramic views, head to the Hoher Kasten Summit, accessible by cable car, offering vistas across six countries and featuring an Alpine garden.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in Altstätten?
Yes, Altstätten boasts a charming historic town center with beautiful medieval and baroque houses, picturesque alleys, and squares like Engelplatz and Marktgasse. You can also explore the Obergasse, lined with Baroque-era commercial buildings. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, carved into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains, offers a unique historical experience. Additionally, the Museum Prestegg provides insights into regional history, and the Placidus Chapel and Haus zur Reburg are notable historical structures.
What activities are available for families with children?
Several attractions around Altstätten are family-friendly. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is a unique spot that fascinates all ages. The Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria is also suitable for families, offering a historical point of interest. The region's numerous hiking and cycling paths provide opportunities for outdoor family adventures, and the cable car ride to Hoher Kasten Summit is an exciting experience for children.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Altstätten?
Altstätten is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various cycling routes, including touring and road cycling, which explore the Rhine Valley and connect to the Appenzell region. There are also numerous running trails for those who prefer jogging. For detailed routes and guides, you can explore Cycling around Altstätten, Road Cycling Routes around Altstätten, and Running Trails around Altstätten.
Are there any attractions accessible for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs?
Yes, the Hoher Kasten Summit is notably accessible. The cable car takes you directly to the summit, where you'll find a barrier-free European circular route and a revolving restaurant that is easily accessible by lift. The Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria is also listed as wheelchair accessible.
What is the best time of year to visit Altstätten?
The region around Altstätten offers attractions year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the mountain lakes like Seealpsee and Fählensee, as well as the Alpine garden on Hoher Kasten Summit. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for scenic walks. The historic town center and museums can be enjoyed in any season. Altstätten is also famous for its Carnival (Fasnacht) festivities, which take place in late winter/early spring.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints near Altstätten?
For breathtaking panoramic views, the Hoher Kasten Summit is highly recommended. From here, you can see across six countries. The mountain lakes, Seealpsee and Fählensee, also offer stunning vistas with reflections of the surrounding Alpstein mountains.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots to discover?
Beyond the main attractions, the Bannriet Nature Reserve is a hidden gem for nature lovers and ornithologists, especially during bird migration. This marshland, a former peat-cutting area, is an amphibian spawning area of national importance and features a viewing tower. The barely visible remains of Hoch-Altstätten Castle, off a hiking trail between Altstätten and St. Anton, offer a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
What is the significance of the Old Rhine Border Crossing?
The Old Rhine Border Crossing Switzerland–Austria is a noteworthy historical site. It represents a small, scenic border crossing that connects Switzerland and Austria, offering a unique point of interest for cyclists and those interested in local history and geography.
What is the Alpstein massif, and how can I experience it from Altstätten?
The Alpstein massif is a stunning mountain range that forms a dramatic backdrop to Altstätten. You can experience its beauty by visiting mountain lakes like Seealpsee and Fählensee, both nestled within the Alpstein. The Hoher Kasten Summit, part of the Alpstein, offers direct access to its panoramic views via cable car. Hiking trails throughout the region also provide opportunities to explore the massif's diverse landscapes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Altstätten?
Visitors frequently praise the combination of historical charm and natural beauty. The picturesque setting of mountain lakes like Seealpsee and the unique experience of the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn are often highlighted. The panoramic views from Hoher Kasten Summit and the well-preserved historic town center are also popular among those exploring the region.
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Most popular attractions around Altstätten
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