Discover Waldstatt through a range of experiences: a circular trail leads around the municipality, repeatedly opening up unobstructed views of the Säntis massif; art and recurring traditions offer further insights into the area. Waldstatt is a political municipality in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden and is part of the Hinterland. The surrounding area is hilly, and the attractions range from trails through the countryside to cultural offerings and seasonal events.
Trails, views and outdoor activities
The Waldstatt Panorama Trail is a circular route that takes around two and a half hours to walk around Waldstatt. Along the way, there are repeated opportunities to enjoy unobstructed views of the Säntis massif. The duration is a guideline; if the route changes, the estimated time may change too. This makes the trail suitable for planning around an approximate time frame, without having to build your day around a precise minute-by-minute schedule.
The Emma Kunz Path offers a different kind of walk: it leads from the village fountain to the idyllic pond at Bad Säntisblick. The work of Emma Kunz is presented at five stops. The pictures along the path invite you to take your time and absorb them. Unlike the circular trail, this route focuses on a specific starting point, a destination and the stops devoted to Emma Kunz's work.
The Waldstatt Wood Trail also combines exercise with themed stops. It has 16 stops to explore, learn and play over 6.5 kilometres. The trail is suitable for all age groups, but not for strollers or wheelchairs. If you are travelling with a stroller or need a wheelchair-accessible path, bear this restriction in mind when choosing a route.
At the fire pit on the edge of the forest, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Säntis. Firewood and spoon blanks are provided; following the instructions on site, you can use your pocketknife to carve your own wooden spoon. Allow around 45 minutes to walk to the fire pit. Walking time may vary depending on the route and conditions. Materials and instructions may be maintained seasonally, so check what is available before your visit.
The Waldstatt swimming pool has a paddling pool for toddlers. Check the seasonal opening period before visiting.
Art, local history and living traditions
The Otto Bruderer House preserves the work of artist Otto Bruderer in his former home. The collection includes watercolours, sketches and pictures on paper, canvas and rigid supports. In addition, the Otto Bruderer Society regularly organises exhibitions featuring contemporary artists in connection with the house. If you are planning a visit, check visiting arrangements and exhibition dates: access rules and programmes may change.
Waldstatt’s traditions are also reflected in the calendar of the year. The Gidio procession takes place every year on Ash Wednesday. Schoolchildren dressed for carnival take part, accompanied by themed floats and people on foot. Along the route, local business owners give edible treats to the funeral procession. On Old New Year’s Eve, the Silvesterchläuse of Urnäsch and Waldstatt also appear on 13 January. Their groups go from farm to farm and, nowadays, from house to house as well. For these recurring events, it is worth checking dates and visitor arrangements for the year you plan to attend; details may change.
The history of schooling here goes back several centuries: Waldstatt’s first independent school opened in 1727. Before that, lessons were held in a schoolroom in the rectory. The historic religious Chapel of St. James is also located in the surrounding area, below the Kronberg, and was first mentioned as early as 1464.
Whether you are interested in art, local history, recurring traditions or trails through the hilly countryside, the options described vary in duration, subject and conditions. Plan around the event or trail that matters most to you, and take the seasonal information and restrictions mentioned above into account.
Discover more destinations: Schwellbrunn, Schönengrund, Stein, Urnäsch, Hundwil, Herisau
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