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.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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A very nice gravel path that leads to Herisau.
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A good way to avoid car traffic. Very pleasant incline.
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Good information boards for background knowledge about the small reservoir.
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Beautiful lake on the outskirts of the city and a fisherman's hot-spot
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Beautiful reservoir and great local recreation area. It also has large fire pit. You can also swim in the lake.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, the lake is a destination for those interested in fishing. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the tranquil environment of Gübsensee.


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