Uttwil combines direct access to Lake Constance with a recreational area featuring lake and forest. Orchards, vineyards and forests shape the surrounding landscape; the village also has a long history and the Uttwil Masterclasses, an annual summer event. Here, lakeside paths, nature and local culture offer different themes to explore during a stay. When choosing your travel dates, it is worth keeping in mind the medicinal herb garden, which is open year-round, the summer courses and the timetables for boat services.

Lakeside Paths, Plants and Nature Conservation

The lakeside promenade is ideal for walking and cycling; on clear days, it offers views of the Alps. Access to Lake Constance also comes with opportunities for water sports and leisurely strolls along the shore. Plant enthusiasts will find a tree and shrub trail with a medicinal herb garden on the shores of Lake Constance. The trail offers insights into native trees and shrubs, while the garden explains the uses and significance of various medicinal plants. It is open year-round.

The natural landscape also includes the Eisweiher, a municipal nature reserve. Visitors must follow one clear rule: do not leave the paths. Two hikes offer different destinations and routes. The route to Buschenschenke Chressibuech starts at Uttwil railway station and passes the Eisweiher and goes through Romanshornerwald to the Buschenschenke. Another hike runs from Uttwil towards Neuwald, through Güttingerwald to Altnau. One leads to Chressibuech, the other to Altnau; the named stretches of woodland also distinguish the routes. Check the latest route details before setting out.

Local History and Notable Buildings

Uttwil Castle is one of the village’s significant buildings on account of its historical and architectural features, as well as its prominent position in the village landscape and within the group of buildings. It borders the landing stage directly to the west and the lakeshore to the northeast. The building includes an enclosed garden with trees. The well-preserved village church and traditional half-timbered houses round out Uttwil’s architectural character.

St. Adelaide’s Chapel is first mentioned in 1276 and was designated a pilgrimage chapel in 1303. In 1524, the Reformation message was proclaimed in Uttwil and the neighbouring villages; Zwingli’s teachings were subsequently accepted unanimously. These dates trace the chapel’s history from its medieval mention through its role as a pilgrimage site to a period of change that also encompassed the surrounding villages.

In the second half of the 18th century, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Dölli merchant family made Uttwil an important transshipment point for grain and salt from Germany, between Rorschach and Konstanz. Another distinctive feature is the «Wacht»: a free-standing dwarf pollard tree that has survived to this day in the small square below the church.

Uttwil Masterclasses in Summer

The Uttwil Masterclasses take place every summer for one week, with international participants. Traditionally, the course week begins with a concert by the masters and ends with two student concerts. During the week, interested listeners can attend various classes at the church, Seeburg, Villa Haab and Haus Syz. If you are planning a visit, check the exact times in advance, as the schedule may change. This allows you to plan your trip around the music, while the medicinal herb garden is open year-round regardless.

Getting There and Practical Information

Uttwil has train connections to Romanshorn, St. Gallen and Kreuzlingen. Check the connections before travelling. Boat services from Uttwil are also available for excursions; services may be seasonal and timetables can change. So check departure times before planning your trip around them. The landing stage is 80 metres long and 3.5 metres wide. The municipality also operates a boat harbour and a mooring buoy field. If you would like to use these facilities, confirm visitor availability in advance.

Discover more destinations: Egnach, Romanshorn, Sommeri, Amriswil, Hefenhofen, Kesswil, Arbon, Horn

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