Sargans Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and food and drink scene in Sargans, Switzerland.


Introduction to Sargans

Nestled in the eastern part of Switzerland, Sargans is a charming little town that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, remarkable landscapes, and exciting outdoor adventures, Sargans is fast becoming a popular tourist destination.

Enveloped by the Alvier mountain range, Sargans boasts of breathtaking scenery that is unspoiled and enchanting. This town has a lot to offer visitors who want to experience Swiss culture, enjoy outdoor activities, or just relax in nature. Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know when planning your visit to Sargans, Switzerland.

List of Places to Visit in Sargans

If you are wondering what to see and do in Sargans, don’t worry. The town has a wide range of activities, attractions, and natural wonders to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Sargans:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sargans Castle: Built in the 13th century, this castle is a fascinating structure that tells the story of medieval times.
  • Heididorf: This delightful village, based on the famous book Heidi, is a popular destination for children and adults alike.
  • Pfarrkirche St. Gallus: This beautiful baroque church is a testament to the town’s religious heritage.
  • Schloss Werdenberg: This stunning castle, built in the 13th century, is an architectural gem and one of the most visited places in Sargans.
  • Museum Sarganserland: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Natural Attractions of Sargans: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Alvierbad Sargans: This fantastic outdoor swimming pool is a great place to cool off in the summer.
  • Murgseen: These crystal clear lakes, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, are perfect for swimming and hiking.
  • **Schwarzbach: **This mountainous region is home to a wide range of hiking trails, some of which lead to stunning views of the town and the surrounding areas.
  • Klettergarten Sarganserland: This rock climbing area offers challenges for both beginners and experts.
  • Seilpark Sarganserland: This ropes course, located in a forest, is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering an exciting adventure in the great outdoors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sargans

Sargans is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The region boasts of over 300 km of marked trails that cater to different fitness levels. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Sargans:

  • Alvier Panorama Trail: This trail, with its stunning alpine scenery, is a favorite among hikers.
  • Fursch-Panörma-Route: This route leads to one of the most beautiful views of the region.
  • Gonzen-Höhenweg: This trail offers hikers a diverse and challenging hike with breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley.
  • Rheintal Trail: This bike trail starts in Sargans and winds its way along the Rhine River valley, offering beautiful panoramas along the way.

Best Things to Do in Sargans: Activities and Tours

Sargans is a great place for those looking for adventure and outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Sargans:

  • Rafting: The Rhine River offers some of the best rafting experiences in Switzerland.
  • Paragliding: Get a bird’s eye view of Sargans and its stunning surroundings with a paragliding adventure.
  • Wine Tours: Sargans is located in a wine-growing region, and thus, a wine tour is a must-do activity.
  • Golfing: Sargans has a beautiful 18-hole golf course, perfect for golf enthusiasts.
  • Fishing: The nearby rivers and lakes are perfect for fishing, with brown trout and grayling being the most common catches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sargans

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Sargans:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour Sargans Castle and Pfarrkirche St. Gallus
Day 2 Explore Heididorf and Werdenberg Old Town
Day 3 Hike the Fursch-Panörma-Route
Day 4 Go wine tasting and take a scenic drive to Murgseen
Day 5 Go rafting on the Rhine River
Day 6 Play golf and try traditional Swiss cuisine
Day 7 Take a day trip to Liechtenstein and explore Vaduz

Food and Drink Scene of Sargans

Swiss cuisine is a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with an emphasis on quality local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when in Sargans:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rösti: A Swiss favorite, this crispy potato dish can be found on most menus.
  • Cheese Fondue: Melted cheese served with bread cubes is a classic Swiss meal.
  • Raclette: This dish involves melted cheese that’s scraped onto a plate and served with potatoes and pickles.
  • Bündnerfleisch: This air-dried beef is a Swiss specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Swiss Wine: Switzerland’s wine is rare and often tastes different from wines found in other parts of the world.
  • Swiss Beer: Swiss beer is brewed to high standards and is often served with a hearty Swiss meal.
  • **Green Walnut Liqueur: **This handmade traditional liqueur is a Sargans specialty and is worth trying.

Where to Stay in Sargans: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sargans has a wide range of accommodation options to fit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Sargans:

  • Best Western Hotel - Zur Rose: This hotel, located in the heart of Sargans, offers comfortable accommodations and breathtaking views of the town.
  • Hotel Schloss Wartenstein: This beautiful castle hotel, located on a hilltop, is perfect for those who want to experience a touch of luxury.
  • Hotel Post Sargans: This cozy hotel is located in the town center and offers comfortable rooms and good food.

What to Buy in Sargans: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products worth taking back home:

  • Swiss chocolate: Swiss chocolate is world-renowned, and a box of this delectable treat makes for the perfect gift.
  • Swiss army knife: This versatile tool is a Swiss invention and is a classic souvenir.
  • Handmade crafts: Sargans has several shops that sell handmade traditional crafts, such as wooden carvings and lace.

Local Culture and Customs of Sargans

Swiss culture is deeply rooted in tradition and history. Here are some local customs to keep in mind when visiting Sargans:

  • Language: The official languages in Switzerland are German, French, and Italian. In Sargans, German is the dominant language.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but it’s customary to round up the bill.
  • Punctuality: Swiss people are known for their punctuality; it’s essential to be on time for any appointments or reservations.

Best Time to Visit Sargans

The best time to visit Sargans is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you’re looking for less crowded streets and lower hotel prices, you can visit during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sargans

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Sargans:

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Swiss people value their traditions and customs. It’s essential to respect and follow them.
  • Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying cash is always a good idea when traveling in Switzerland.
  • Be Prepared for the Mountain Climate: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. It’s vital to carry layers of clothing to stay warm and comfortable.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Be Late: Swiss people are punctual, and being late is considered rude.
  • Don’t Speak Too Loudly: Swiss people value privacy, and speaking loudly in public places is frowned upon.
  • Don’t Litter: Switzerland is known for its cleanliness. It’s crucial to dispose of waste properly.

Safety and Health

Switzerland is a safe country to travel to, and Sargans is no exception. However, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Sargans

  • Crime Rate: Switzerland has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to travel to.
  • Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, dial 144 for medical help and 117 for the police.

Health in Sargans

  • Travel Insurance: It’s always advisable to have travel insurance when traveling to any country.
  • Altitude Sickness: Sargans is located in a mountainous region, and altitude sickness is a possibility. Travelers should take necessary precautions, such as drinking plenty of fluids, resting regularly, and avoiding alcohol.

Getting to Sargans: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sargans is well-connected to other parts of Switzerland and Europe, making it easy to reach. Here are some transportation options for getting to Sargans:

Airports Near Sargans

  • Zurich Airport: This is the nearest international airport, located around 70 km from Sargans.
  • Friedrichshafen Airport: This airport is another option, located around 100 km from Sargans.

Bus Stations Near Sargans

  • Sargans Bahnhof: This is the main bus station in Sargans.

Other Options

  • Train: Sargans is connected to other parts of Switzerland and Europe via train.
  • Car: Sargans can be reached by car from all major Swiss cities.

How to Get Around in Sargans

Sargans is a walkable town, and most attractions are located within walking distance. However, if you want to venture outside the town, here are some transportation options:

  • Buses: Sargans has a comprehensive bus network that operates within the town and surrounding regions.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available in Sargans, but they can be expensive.
  • Cars: Car rental is available in Sargans.

Where to Go Next from Sargans: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sargans is a great base to explore other nearby destinations. Here are some places worth visiting:

  • Liechtenstein: This small principality is located just a few kilometers from Sargans and is known for its castle and charming capital, Vaduz.
  • Zurich: Switzerland’s largest city is located just over an hour’s drive from Sargans and is known for its culture, shopping, and dining scene.
  • Appenzell: This traditional Swiss village, located around 1.5 hours from Sargans, is famous for its cheese and embroidery.

Conclusion

Sargans is a hidden gem in Switzerland, waiting to be discovered by travelers looking for adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With its natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and rich history, Sargans has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you the inspiration and information you need to plan your visit to Sargans, Switzerland. Happy travels!