Eastern Switzerland and Liechtenstein
When people think of Switzerland, the mind often drifts to the famous Alpine peaks of the south or the chic streets of Zurich. But what if I told you that there’s a lesser-known region that packs just as much beauty and charm, without the crowds? Welcome to Eastern Switzerland, or as the locals call it, Ostschweiz – a hidden gem that offers everything from sparkling lakes and rolling hills to medieval towns and dramatic mountain landscapes.
A Region of Many Faces
Eastern Switzerland stretches from the sparkling shores of Lake Constance, across the rolling hills of the Appenzell region and into the dramatic Alpine vistas of Toggenburg. Further along, you’ll find the idyllic Heidiland holiday region and the picturesque Glarnerland. Tucked away in the distant Rhine Valley lies Vaduz, the charming capital of the tiny yet captivating principality of Liechtenstein.
This lovely region has something for everyone – cyclists, hikers, history buffs, or those who simply want to kick back and soak up some authentic Swiss scenery. And unlike the more popular tourist spots, you won’t find yourself elbowing for space in front of a mountain vista here. Eastern Switzerland is where nature and culture come together, quietly, beautifully, and without the fanfare.
Lake Constance: A Cyclist’s Dream
If you’re a fan of lakes, start your journey along Lake Constance. The Swiss side of this large lake is a cyclist’s paradise. Picture yourself pedaling past quaint fishing villages, lush vineyards, and panoramic views of the lake, with Germany and Austria just across the water. There’s something truly magical about exploring the shorelines of Thurgau, where serene waters meet rolling green hills.
Step Back in Time in Schaffhausen and Stein am Rhein
For a dose of history and charm, Schaffhausen in the Schaffhauserland region is a must-visit. The stunning Munot Fortress looms over the beautifully preserved medieval town, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale—but with a modern Swiss twist. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with frescoed buildings, and you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops to explore. Just a short ride away, the picturesque town of Stein am Rhein enchants visitors with its half-timbered houses and colorful facades. And no trip to the area is complete without experiencing the Rhine Falls—the largest waterfall in Europe, where the power of nature will leave you in awe!
Appenzellerland: Where Time Stands Still
Next up is the Appenzellerland, a place where time slows down and the charm cranks up to maximum. If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through a town straight out of a storybook, this is it. Brightly painted houses, cobbled streets, and a backdrop of rolling hills make this area irresistibly quaint. Not to mention, the Appenzell region is rich in cultural traditions – from yodeling to alpine cheese-making, this is where Swiss heritage lives and breathes.
Toggenburg: A Natural Playground for Adventurers
Situated between the majestic Churfirsten and Alpstein ranges in Eastern Switzerland, Toggenburg is an adventurer’s paradise. This high valley, carved by the rivers Thur and Necker, stretches from Wildhaus to Wil and is home to the stunning resorts of Alt St. Johann, Unterwasser, and Wildhaus—some of the highest-lying municipalities in the region. Whether you’re hiking the enchanting Sagenweg (Legend Trail), where mystical forests and serene mountain lakes await, or simply soaking in the breathtaking alpine scenery, Toggenburg offers endless opportunities for exploration. With the towering Churfirsten peaks standing guard, it’s impossible not to feel a little awe-struck.
Heidiland and Glarnerland: A Family-Friendly Paradise
In the south, you’ll find the charmingly named Heidiland, made famous by the beloved story of Heidi. This area is perfect for families, offering activities like the Heidipfad hiking trail near Bad Ragaz, where you can walk in the footsteps of the iconic character. For some relaxation, Lake Walen (Walensee) is ideal for swimming, boating, or simply unwinding on the shore with a good book. Adventurers can also hike from Weesen to the Seerenbach Falls, one of Switzerland’s tallest waterfalls, for a stunning natural spectacle.
In Bad Ragaz, the Tamina Gorge invites you to explore its dramatic cliffs and soothing thermal waters. And if you are in search for stunning alpine lakes, don’t miss the picturesque 5-Lake-Hike at Pizol.
Further west, Glarnerland offers an alpine dreamscape with breathtaking views of the Glarus Alps and endless trails for all levels of hikers. Be sure to visit Klöntalersee, a tranquil lake nestled in the mountains, perfect for picnics, hiking, and kayaking. Though lesser-known, Glarnerland’s beauty rivals the most famous Swiss regions, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers. This region might be lesser-known, but its beauty is anything but second-rate.
St. Gallen and Wil: History Meets Modernity
For history buffs, St. Gallen is a must-visit. This city boasts the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Abbey District, home to the stunning Abbey Cathedral and the world-famous Abbey Library, one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries on the planet. Walking through the library feels like stepping into another era, where ancient manuscripts and Baroque architecture are the stars of the show.
Not far away is Wil, which proudly claims the best-preserved old town in Eastern Switzerland. Its half-timbered houses and charming arcades are straight out of a fairy tale. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the centuries-old atmosphere.
A Quick Detour to Liechtenstein
No visit to Eastern Switzerland is complete without a quick jaunt to the Principality of Liechtenstein, one of the smallest and most enchanting countries in the world. The capital, Vaduz, is a charming city with a medieval castle perched on a hill, overlooking the Rhine Valley. It’s also home to a surprisingly vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and plenty of places to sip a coffee while taking in the stunning surroundings.
