Amden: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
Between Lake Walen and the impressive peaks of Mattstock and Leistchamm lies Amden in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. After a hike in untouched nature, the freely accessible bathing spots in the turquoise blue water offer refreshment. On a boat trip, you can experience Amden from a different perspective.
Table of contents
Amden - Must-see attractions
Mattstock Summit
The Mattstock is now one of the most popular hiking areas in Switzerland. Let your gaze wander over the shimmering Lake Walen and the surrounding mountain landscape. From Mattstock, the 9 km long Amden high trail leads to Arvenbüel. Take the chairlift to the Walau mountain station, from where you reach the Hintere Höhe. The next section of the trail leads through a dense pine moorland. Across natural meadows, it goes to Hüttlisboden and Arvenbüel.
Amden-Arvenbüel
In summer, Arvenbüel is a perfect starting point for hikes. For example, walk to the Chapf viewpoint, and Eastern Switzerland lies at your feet. The Amden high-altitude trail also starts in Arvenbüel and leads through the high moor. In winter, the Amden-Arvenbüel ski area is very popular with families. On 20 kilometers of slopes, everyone finds their favorite run. From the children's area to the snow park at Leistkamm, fun and variety are guaranteed. Next to the ski lift in Arvenbüel, there is a toboggan run.
Lake Walen
The fjord-like Walensee was formed by a glacier during the Ice Age. Spectacular mountains like the Churfirsten range form the backdrop for swimming or boating. Hike along the steep northern shore on the Walensee hike from Weesen to Walenstadt. A hidden gem is the viewpoint located above the Walensee, which you can reach from Amden in a 45-minute hike. From Durschlegi, you have an impressive panorama of the lake, which you will likely share with few or no other visitors.
Weesener Cable Car
As you float up the Mattstock with the Weesen cable car, you enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Walen and the densely forested holiday region in the canton of St. Gallen. The valley station is at 910 m and the mountain station at 1,292 m. The Amden high-altitude trail to Arvenbüel and the Speer hike are some of the popular tours you can reach with the Weesen cable car. In winter, it opens up a family-friendly ski area with 20 kilometers of slopes for beginners and experts, as well as attractive winter hiking trails.
Prodalp
Up to the 1,056 m high Prodalp, you can comfortably take the Prodalp-Express gondola lift. At the top, a mountain restaurant with a large sun terrace serves hikers and mountain bikers traditional cuisine and refreshments. Children enjoy trying out the nearby climbing tower Cliimber. A playground, the children's area, and the balance bike course provide even more fun and action for the youngest Prodalp visitors. In the cold season, the Prodalp-Tannenheim sledding slope is very popular with both young and old, offering a fast ride down to the valley.
Seerenbach Falls
The Seerenbach Falls are located above Lake Walen near the village of Betlis, which belongs to the municipality of Amden in the canton of St. Gallen, and are one of the highest waterfalls in Switzerland. To reach the waterfalls, visitors can hike and enjoy the scenic view of the lake and its surroundings. The waterfalls are particularly impressive in the summer with the melting snow water.
Amden - Secret spots
Drawstring bag
In the Schöpfsack area between Betlis and Amden in the canton of St. Gallen runs one of the few well-preserved hollow ways in the region. Bounded by an old dry stone wall, it leads through the Betlisberg forest. On the opposite bank of the Sellbach stands the Atelier Amden, a former farmhouse that serves as an exhibition space.
Lourdes Grotto in Amden
The Lourdes Marian Grotto is located at Sellbach in Amden. The grotto was built in 1991 as a place of worship by architect Hubert Hämmerli and is intended to provide visitors with comfort and strength. Additionally, it is situated in a scenic location not far from the viewpoint Fallen, from which you have a magnificent view over the deep blue Lake Walen.
Strahlegg Castle Ruins
Above the shore of Lake Walen in Amden rises the Strahlegg castle ruins. Recent excavations have shown that the castle, destroyed in the 14th century, dates back to a watchtower from Roman times. Today, the Strahlegg castle ruins are a popular excursion destination. From Amden, it can be reached on foot in about 40 minutes.
Lake Türler
From Amden in Eastern Switzerland, you can reach Lake Türler near Affoltern am Albis via Wädenswil and Thalwil. The deep blue lake lies at the foot of the Albis chain and is surrounded by dense forests that invite extensive hikes. In summer, Lake Türler is a popular swimming spot.
Amden - In 3 days
Day 1
The picturesque mountain village of Amden is especially known for its breathtaking nature. Right after your arrival, you start with an exciting hike along the Amden Höhenweg. This path leads you through dense forests, past clear mountain streams, through the dry heathland, and into the high moor. Here, with a bit of luck, you can discover the rare carnivorous sundew. And along the entire way, you are repeatedly offered spectacular views of the majestic Alps. On the way, you can take a break in one of the charming alpine huts and enjoy a traditional Swiss picnic, consisting of delicious regional cheese, fresh bread, and of course, the pure mountain air. After descending, you visit the Amden Museum in the afternoon. Here you learn more about the history of Eastern Switzerland, mining, and the traditions of the villagers. In the evening, you should definitely stop by a cozy restaurant and taste the regional specialties like fondue or raclette.
Day 2
The second day of your journey is dedicated to the Amden Speer, one of the most distinctive mountain peaks in Eastern Switzerland. Early in the morning, you set off and take the Mattstock chairlift to comfortably reach the summit. There, you are greeted with an impressive 360-degree view of the snow-covered Alpine peaks and, on a clear day, even Lake Constance. At the foot of the mountain lies the sun-glittering Lake Walen, which you can explore in the afternoon by pedal boat or on a boat trip. The almost vertical rock walls rising from the water on the northern shore are an impressive photo opportunity, as are the imposing Seerenbach Falls, about 600 meters high, which you can reach on a hike from Lake Walen. Especially after the snow melts, the roaring waterfalls, plunging into the depths over three cascades, are a highlight of your journey. Nearby is also the extensive cave system of the Ringquelle, which has carved its way into the rock with its masses of water.
Day 3
Before your departure, dive into adventure once more today: The Leistchamm, at over 2,100 m, is the highest mountain peak in Amden and offers one last view from above of this picturesque spa town. Since the ascent is quite steep, you should wear sturdy shoes for the hike and bring your hiking poles if needed. After descending from the summit, you will go deep into the Fallenbach Gorge, where you will hike through an impressive canyon densely covered with ferns like in a rainforest and traversed by clear mountain streams. If you wish, you can try beginner-friendly canyoning here, letting experienced professionals help you rappel down rock walls, slide through natural rock channels, and climb up waterfalls. Finally, visit the cooperatively operated Amden Dairy Center, where you can stock up on souvenirs from a huge selection of raclette cheese before your departure.