Abtwil offers a range of travel experiences: the Neo-Gothic parish church and historic town centre, extensive cycling, skating and mountain biking routes, and activities centred on water. You can plan your time around your own interests rather than trying to fit everything into one itinerary.
Church, Townscape and History
The parish church in Abtwil was built in the Neo-Gothic style between 1903 and 1905. It replaced the church in St. Josefen, which had become too small. The plans were drawn up by church architect August Hardegger; Bishop Augustinus Egger dedicated the church to St Joseph on 30 October 1905. A virtual tour of the church was created in 2024. Check whether it is available before your trip.
The Gaiserwald Local History Museum also focuses on the history of the villages: it offers insights into St. Josefen, Abtwil and Engelburg and is located in the old rectory in St. Josefen. Abtwil’s historic centre features a large number of preserved old buildings that shape the streetscape; some require renovation. Another trace of the past is the Ätschberg castle ruins in Gaiserwald. They are a protected archaeological site marking the location of a 12th-century castle, complete with a neck ditch.
Water Park and Relaxation
The Säntispark offers activities for action, relaxation and families all year round, whatever the weather. The water park includes a wave pool with a water fountain and surf zone, as well as a 34-degree saltwater pool. The children’s water world features a cave slide, a tube slide and a pool with an interactive fish projection. The pools and attractions offer different experiences; some areas may be temporarily unavailable. So check current opening hours and the availability of the activities you want before setting off.
You can set aside a longer block of time for wellness: the 12-station relaxation programme at the Roman-Irish Bath lasts 2.5 hours. The bath is reserved for guests aged 16 and over. Knowing the duration and age requirement helps you distinguish this part of the day from a shorter visit to the water park. Check the latest access and booking details before planning your visit.
Cycling Tours and Other Routes
Abtwil is a good starting point for extensive cycling, skating or mountain biking tours. A panoramic view can be enjoyed from Aetschberg. Route conditions may change, so check in advance which tour suits your plans.
The range of tours in the wider Abtwil area includes two different options: the St.Gallen-Bodensee-Weier cycling tour is a circular route from St. Gallen via the Sitter, several ponds and the GĂĽbsensee. The St. Gallen Bridges Trail is a themed walking route along the Sitter, focusing on information about the construction and design of bridges around St. Gallen. The options therefore differ both in activity and subject: one is a cycling tour featuring bodies of water, while the other is a walking route focused on bridges.
Plan Your Journey
VBSG route 4 serves the Abtwil Säntispark (St. Josefen) stop and connects it with St. Gallen railway station and Wittenbach railway station. If you plan to use this connection, check the timetable for your travel date, as public transport routes can change. This gives you distinct options for planning your day, with cultural history, outdoor activities and the water park to choose from.
Discover more destinations: Sankt Gallen, Eggersriet, Gossau, Waldkirch
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