Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Switzerland
Eastern Switzerland
Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Gübsensee

Attractions and Places To See around Gübsensee - Top 5

Best attractions and places to see around Gübsensee include the reservoir itself, located on the western edge of St. Gallen. This area serves as a local recreation spot and a significant habitat for approximately 50 bird species. Historically, Gübsensee functioned as Switzerland's first weighted dam, supplying electricity to St. Gallen since 1900.

Best attractions and places to see around Gübsensee

  • The most popular attraction is Gübsensee East, a lake that is a popular recreational area with Bänkli and fire pits. It features the eastern dam wall, built in 1900 as Switzerland's first gravity dam.
  • Another must-see spot is Stream Tunnel, a man-made cave. This small tunnel allows passage for a stream.
  • Visitors also love Inlets 1 + 2, man-made facilities. These inlets provide water to the reservoir from the Urnäsch and Sitter rivers.
  • Gübsensee is known for its natural features, cycling routes, and historical landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from the lake itself to old railway lines converted into paths.
  • The attractions around Gübsensee are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 280 upvotes and 70 photos shared.

Last updated: June 23, 2026

Gübsensee East

Highlight • Lake

Popular local recreation area with many benches and fire pits. The walking path around Gübsensee is also very popular with joggers and is frequently used.

Showing Translation

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Gübsensee West Dam

Highlight • Monument

Popular recreational area with many Bänkli and fire pits. The walk around the Gübsensee is also very popular with joggers and is used extensively.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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

Old AB Route

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Track on the old route of the Appenzellerbahn, when it ran from Winkeln until 1913 (instead of today from Gossau). Some beautiful views of angles with shopping arena and FCSG stadium.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Expensive parking fees, traffic jams or overcrowded public transport - with a bike you can leave such inconveniences behind you. With a little steam or a turbo on an e-bike, you can get to the center of St. Gallen in under 30 minutes by bike from Herisau. Of course, if everything goes well, you can drive there in 15 minutes. The beautiful path along the Gübsensee over the Sitterbrücke is so relaxing that you can start your working day completely relaxed or practically go on a shopping tour through the city by bike.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Inlets 1 + 2

Highlight • Structure

Feed 1 from the underground pressure tunnel from the Urnäsch.
Slightly next to it is feed 2 from the Sitter.
Information on this can be found in the photos.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Gübsensee.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Gübsensee

Running Trails around Gübsensee

Hiking around Gübsensee

Cycling around Gübsensee

Road Cycling Routes around Gübsensee

MTB Trails around Gübsensee

Gravel biking around Gübsensee

Mountain Hikes around Gübsensee

Tips from the Community

Besart Rrustemi
March 9, 2026, Altes Trassée AB

A very nice gravel path that leads to Herisau.

Translated by Google

0

0

Beautiful place, very quiet

Translated by Google

0

0

René 71
November 15, 2025, Altes Trassée AB

A good way to avoid car traffic. Very pleasant incline.

Translated by Google

0

0

Good information boards for background knowledge about the small reservoir.

Translated by Google

0

0

Gunggel
August 28, 2023, Gübsensee Ost

Beautiful lake on the outskirts of the city and a fisherman's hot-spot

Translated by Google

0

0

Beautiful reservoir and great local recreation area. It also has large fire pit. You can also swim in the lake.

Translated by Google

1

2

Gübsensee is a reservoir of the SAK St. Gallsche power plants. Very nice local recreation area in the city of St. Gallen with a good fireplace and great forest to romp around in.

Translated by Google

1

0

Feed 1 from the underground pressure tunnel from the Urnäsch. Slightly next to it is feed 2 from the Sitter. Information on this can be found in the photos.

Translated by Google

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Gübsensee?

The central natural feature is the Gübsensee East itself, a picturesque reservoir known for its idyllic scenery. It's a significant habitat for approximately 50 different bird species, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.

Are there historical points of interest near Gübsensee?

Yes, Gübsensee holds historical significance as Switzerland's first weighted dam, established around 1900 to supply electricity to St. Gallen. You can see the eastern dam wall at Gübsensee East. Additionally, the impressive SBB Sitter Viaduct, known as the highest railway bridge in Switzerland, is visible from parts of the circular path around the lake.

What activities are available for families at Gübsensee?

Gübsensee is very family-friendly. The well-maintained circular path around the lake is perfect for walks and cycling. There are also designated picnic areas and fireplaces for family outings. Highlights like Inlets 1 + 2 and the Bike route along Gübsensee and the Sitter Bridge are noted as family-friendly. The 'Old AB Route' is also suitable for families.

Can I go cycling around Gübsensee?

Absolutely! A popular circular path encircles the lake, ideal for cyclists. Beyond this, cycling routes extend along the lake and over the Sitterbrücke. The 'Altes Trassée AB,' an old Appenzellerbahn railway line, has been converted into a scenic cycling path. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Gübsensee guide.

Are there hiking opportunities around Gübsensee?

Yes, the circular path around Gübsensee is very popular for walkers and joggers. The terrain is generally easy, making it accessible for many. For more options, explore the Hiking around Gübsensee guide, which includes routes like the 'Gübsensee West Dam – Gübsensee East loop' rated as easy.

What is the difficulty level of trails around Gübsensee?

Many trails around Gübsensee, particularly the circular path, are considered easy and suitable for all ages. Some routes, like the 'Gübsensee West Dam – Gübsensee East loop' are explicitly rated as easy. However, there are also moderate and difficult cycling routes available for those seeking more challenge, as detailed in the Cycling around Gübsensee guide.

Is Gübsensee suitable for birdwatching?

Yes, Gübsensee is an excellent location for birdwatching. The lake is a significant habitat, home to approximately 50 different bird species, including kingfishers, goosanders, and tortoiseshell flycatchers. Its diverse avian population offers superb opportunities for observation.

Where can I find picnic spots or fireplaces at Gübsensee?

Along the circular path that encircles Gübsensee, you will find several secluded picnic spots and well-equipped fireplaces. These are perfect for enjoying a meal or a barbecue amidst the natural surroundings. Gübsensee East is specifically mentioned as a popular recreational area with many benches and fire pits.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about Gübsensee?

Visitors appreciate Gübsensee as a popular recreational area with many benches and fire pits, ideal for relaxation. The walk around the lake is highly favored by joggers and walkers. The scenic paths, like the Bike route along Gübsensee and the Sitter Bridge, are described as relaxing, allowing for a calm start to the day. The area's natural beauty and historical significance also contribute to its appeal.

Are dogs allowed on the trails around Gübsensee?

While specific regulations for dogs are not detailed, the area is a popular local recreation spot with many trails. It is generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the diverse bird population and other wildlife around the lake, to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect the natural habitat.

What are some unique man-made structures to see at Gübsensee?

Beyond the historic dam wall, you can explore unique man-made facilities such as the Stream Tunnel, a small tunnel allowing passage for a stream. Also, the Inlets 1 + 2 are interesting, as these facilities provide water to the reservoir from the Urnäsch and Sitter rivers, with information boards explaining their function.

Is fishing permitted in Gübsensee?

Yes, the lake is a destination for those interested in fishing. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the tranquil environment of Gübsensee.

Most popular routes around Gübsensee

Running Trails around Gübsensee

Most popular attractions around Gübsensee

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

HinterlandMittellandVorderland

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Bannwald

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy