The Via Jacobi is charming. It starts at Lake Constance and takes you past the historic old town of St. Gallen into the hilly landscape of Appenzell. Customs, cheese and an occasional “juchzer” accompany you on your way through Toggenburg to Lake Zurich.
The lake promenade of Rapperswil is charming and gives this part of the hike almost a Mediterranean touch. Lake Sihlsee on the plateau of Einsiedeln is almost wild and romantic. Charming lakes and villages throughout this hike make the first part of the Swiss Jacobs trail a great hike.
Rorschach, medieval traffic hub and lake port of St. Gallen, is mentioned as a pilgrimage station around the year 1300. Visit to the Stift Library in St. Gallen.
Herisau, oldest Appenzell parish seat has been known since 907. The path leads past the former hostel, zum Goldenen Sternen, then on through the varied hilly landscape of Appenzell and Toggenburg to Wattwil. By bus to the neighbouring village Liechtensteig, where you will spend the night.
By bus back to Wattwil. Between Wattwil and Rapperswil, the landscape is dotted with individual farms and marked by gently rolling hills and various-sized woodland areas. Some beautiful sunken paths turn the hike into a special experience.
The hike leads over the wooden footbridge from Rapperswil to Hurden built in 2001 and then over the Etzelpass to Einsiedeln. Particularly impressive views of the Zürichsee on this trail to Switzerland’s most important place of pilgrimage.
approx. 4.5 h
approx. 16 km
760 m
260 m
Day
6
Departure or extra nights
Tour character
There are only few ascents, but a good physical condition and stamina is needed for the long legs. The trails are well maintained and easy to walk.
Train journey St. Gallen - Herisau not included, approx. CHF 8 per person
Bus to / from Liechtensteig not included, approx. CHF 5.- per person and ride
Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price
Reservation fee of CHF 15 per adult (incl. legally required customer money protection)
Information
Arrival/Departure:
Arrival by train from Zurich airport via St. Gallen. Duration: approx. 1.5 hours.
Return travel by train via Wädenswil to Zurich airport. Duration: approx. 1.5 hours.
Travel Documents
Travel documents "digital”
In future we will reduce the amount of printed documents. You will receive instructions to help you find your way around using the SwitzerlandMobility app. We will provide you with further information online. In advance you will receive a small package of documents with the following contents:
On the way, you can easily find your way with the SwitzerlandMobility app and other freely accessible aids. Background information and all other documents are delivered electronically and can be downloaded to your mobile phone in advance.
Let us know if you don't want to do without maps. We will send them to you free of charge.