Attractions and Places To See around Waldstatt - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Waldstatt, a municipality in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Switzerland, offers a blend of nature and local culture. The region is characterized by its hilly landscape and provides opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover distinctive local attractions and notable sites within the surrounding Appenzellerland region. The area is known for its natural features and cultural landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see around Waldstatt
- The most popular attractions is Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi, a restaurant that offers views of the Alps and the northern flatlands. It is a known mountain restaurant, accessible from several directions.
- Another must-see spot is Kronberg Summit, a summit offering panoramic views of Lake Constance, Säntis, and Alpstein. At an altitude of 1,663 meters, it provides extensive vistas.
- Visitors also love Chapel of St. James, a religious building located southwest below the Kronberg peak. This historical site has been mentioned since 1464 and was rebuilt in 1925.
- Waldstatt is known for its natural viewpoints, historical sites, and mountain restaurants. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from cultural landmarks to scenic summits.
- The attractions around Waldstatt are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 780 upvotes and over 740 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Kronberg Summit
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Scheidegg Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
It is not possible to determine exactly when people started travelling to Kronberg for other purposes. It can be assumed that after the discovery of spas outside the country's borders - Gontenbad in the 18th century, Jakobsbad after 1845 - people also hiked in the Kronberg area. There was certainly an increase in tourism after the Urnäsch-Gontenbad route of the "Appenzeller Bahnen" was opened to scheduled traffic on August 16, 1886. However, sources already document the existence of summer restaurants for several years before that.
Later, restaurants were set up on Kronberg but also in Gross Chenner. The following innkeepers are documented in advertisements: On Jakobi 1893, butcher Baumgartner, probably "Kreuz" innkeeper Conrad Baumgartner (1852-1900), in the summer regularly from 1894 and perhaps until 1898 Josef Anton Neff, whose dates of birth and death could not be determined in Gonten. Josef Anton Huber (1872-1931), "Mandlis", as the owner of this Alp, must also have run a restaurant on his property since 1899 or at least had someone run a restaurant there. On June 20, 1906, he had an advertisement in the "Appenzeller Volksfreund" announcing that the "Ruheplatz" inn on his Alp would be closed all summer. Perhaps this is related to the opening of the "Kronberg" inn on the Jakobsalp on July 14, 1906 by Johann Baptist Hersche in Gonten.
We do not know until when the restaurant was open every Saturday and Sunday when the weather was nice. Perhaps until 1917, because on June 13, 1918, the buildings belonging to the canton, the alpine hut and stable, were destroyed by fire and were not rebuilt due to reforestation.
Text / Source: Luftseilbahn Jakobsbad-Kronberg AG, St. Josefstrasse 2 · 9108 Jakobsbad
kronberg.ch/de/unternehmen/geschichte.html
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Chapel of St. James
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
St. Gallen Old Town
Highlight • Historical Site
The buildings are very well preserved and you will find all kinds of architectural styles, from half-timbered to classicism and art nouveau to modernism. The landmark is the baroque St. Gallen Abbey with the unique abbey library.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Waldstatt.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The origins of devotion to St. James at this location are linked to a legend. According to this legend, the apostle violently hurled his walking sticks away from Santiago de Compostela, and they landed on the Kronberg. This explains the origin of the two pilgrim staffs in the colors red and yellow (the Spanish national colors!).
3
0
very nice, lots of pedestrians though
1
0
When visibility is good, you have a great all-round view.
1
0
If the weather is good, you will be rewarded for the climb (moderately difficult for inexperienced hikers). The view is fantastic. The inn is closed on Mondays, but otherwise you can enjoy simple but delicious meals on a wonderful terrace.
1
0
Since summer 2024, the inn's exterior has been completely renovated and looks very beautiful and colorful. Older photos are therefore no longer up-to-date, but the food is still superb and comparatively reasonably priced.
2
0
The Chapel of St. Jakob Gonten is located southwest below the Kronberg peak at an elevation of 1,445 meters in the Appenzell Alps in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. In 1464, mention was made of the chapel, hermit's cottage, and healing St. James's Spring. In 1456, mass was still read from a portable altar. The chapel was rebuilt in 1859.
2
1
Really great, varied, easily accessible hiking trails lead to the Höhi, from all sides of course. There is a barbecue area, a restaurant, and overnight accommodation is possible. When the visibility is good, you can see as far as Appenzellerland, Lake Constance, the Alpstein chain and the Bernese Alps.
2
0
Further information can be found at the following link: https://scheidegg-ai.ch/?ved=2ahUKEwjgg7f51vWFAxWZiv0HHV7YC2IQgU96BAggEAQ
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular natural features and viewpoints around Waldstatt?
The region around Waldstatt is known for its scenic beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views from Kronberg Summit, which offers extensive vistas of Lake Constance, Säntis, and Alpstein. Another excellent spot for views is the Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi, providing a wonderful outlook over the Alps and the northern flatlands.
Are there family-friendly activities or trails in Waldstatt?
Yes, Waldstatt offers family-friendly options. The Holzweg Waldstatt (Wood Trail) is a themed hiking trail spanning 6.5 kilometers with 16 stations designed for exploration, learning, and play, suitable for all ages. While not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs, it's a great outdoor experience. Additionally, the Kronberg Summit is accessible and offers a mountain inn, making it a pleasant destination for families.
What historical or cultural sites can I visit near Waldstatt?
Near Waldstatt, you can visit the Chapel of St. James, a historical religious building located below the Kronberg peak, with mentions dating back to 1464. For a richer cultural experience, the city of St. Gallen, approximately 10-12 kilometers away, boasts the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Abbey of Saint Gall and its invaluable Abbey Library, along with a charming St. Gallen Old Town.
What kind of hiking trails are available around Waldstatt?
Waldstatt and its surroundings offer a variety of hiking trails. The Holzweg Waldstatt is a popular themed trail within the municipality. For more challenging mountain hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Scheidegg Inn – Kronberg loop from Gonten' or 'Kronberg – Scheidegg Inn loop from Jakobsbad'. You can find more details and routes in the Mountain Hikes around Waldstatt guide.
Can I learn about local traditions or products in the area?
Absolutely. The Appenzeller Schaukäserei (Appenzell Show Dairy) in Stein, about 4.8 kilometers from Waldstatt, is a popular place to learn about and experience the production of the famous Appenzeller cheese. This offers a direct insight into a significant local tradition.
Are there any specific trails related to local personalities or art?
Yes, Waldstatt features the Emma Kunz Path and Wooden Pavilion. This path commemorates the life and work of the renowned healer, researcher, and artist Emma Kunz, who lived in Waldstatt. It includes five stations along a hiking trail, leading past her former residence to a tranquil pond, and features a unique three-dimensional wooden pavilion showcasing her art.
What are the options for cycling or mountain biking near Waldstatt?
The region around Waldstatt is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes, including challenging mountain bike trails like the 'Schwänberg Bridge – Magdenauer Weiher loop from Waldstatt' or scenic cycling tours such as the 'View of the Säntis North Face – Schwägalp Pass summit loop from Waldstatt'. Explore more options in the Cycling around Waldstatt guide or the MTB Trails around Waldstatt guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Waldstatt?
Visitors frequently highlight the stunning panoramic views from mountain peaks and restaurants, such as the Kronberg Summit and the Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi. The well-preserved St. Gallen Old Town is also appreciated for its charm, shops, and historical architecture. Many enjoy the combination of natural beauty and opportunities for refreshment at mountain inns like Scheidegg Mountain Inn.
Are there any adventure or water parks nearby for entertainment?
Yes, for adventure and water park fun, Santispark is located in Gaiserwald, approximately 7.2 kilometers from Waldstatt. It offers a great option for family entertainment and a change of pace from hiking and cultural exploration.
Where can I find a zoo near Waldstatt?
If you're looking for a zoo experience, Walter Zoo is located in Gossau, about 6.9 kilometers from Waldstatt. It's a convenient option for animal lovers and families visiting the region.
What is the best way to experience the high mountain views, like Säntis?
To experience the breathtaking panoramic views from high altitudes, you can take the Säntis - Schwebebahn (Cable Car) located in Hundwil, around 11.4 kilometers from Waldstatt. This provides easy access to the Säntis mountain, offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Are there places to eat and rest along the trails or near attractions?
Yes, several mountain restaurants and inns are available. The Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi is a well-known spot with beautiful views. The Scheidegg Mountain Inn is another beautifully situated option known for its friendly service and local cuisine. The Kronberg Summit also has a nearby mountain restaurant for refreshments.
Most popular routes around Waldstatt
Most popular attractions around Waldstatt
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
