Gossau(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Gossau, the best hotel with panoramic alpine views is Hotel Alpenhof Gossau, nestled in the heart of the Appenzell Alps. Its spacious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Rhine Valley and snow-capped peaks of the Sankt Gallen Alps. The hotel blends traditional Swiss timber architecture with modern comfort, offering heated floors, premium linens, and a rooftop terrace perfect for sunrise coffee. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to nearby hiking trails and guided nature walks. For an authentic experience, book the Mountain View Suite, which includes a private balcony with a view of Lake Constance on clear days. This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking both tranquility and breathtaking scenery in eastern Switzerland.

The central district of Gossau, near the Gossau Municipal Square and railway station, is the most family-friendly area for accommodations. It offers easy access to children’s farms, playgrounds, and local cafes. Stay at Familienhotel Gossau, a certified family-friendly hotel with spacious suites, babysitting services, and a dedicated kids’ club. The area is safe, quiet, and well-connected—just a 10-minute walk to Rietbach Valley Trail and a 15-minute ride to Zoo St. Gallen. Many hotels provide free Wi-Fi, stroller rentals, and kid-sized bathrobes. Families also appreciate the proximity to Swiss organic farms where children can participate in farm activities like milking cows or collecting eggs. This central hub ensures convenience, safety, and fun for all ages.

Visitors to Gossau can immerse themselves in authentic Appenzell traditions during the annual Appenzell Folk Festival, where locals wear handcrafted Bergkittel costumes and perform traditional dances with accordion and cowbells. Don’t miss the handloom weaving workshop at Gossauer Handwerkswerkstatt, where you can create your own Appenzell embroidery shawl using natural dyes. Explore the Gossau Museum, which features exhibits on Swiss Reformation history and ancient manuscripts from the St. Gallen Abbey. On weekends, guided tours of the St. Gallen Abbey Complex offer insights into its role as a medieval European intellectual center. These experiences connect travelers deeply with Swiss rural heritage and the spiritual legacy of the region.

Gossau is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike the Rietbach Valley Trail, a scenic route winding through beech forests and wildflower meadows, ending at the Rietbach Waterfall—perfect for photography and peaceful reflection. For cyclists, the Rhine River Bike Path offers a smooth, traffic-free ride along the riverbanks, with stops at historic bridges and riverside cafés. In winter, the nearby Appenzell mountains provide excellent skiing and snowshoeing opportunities, with several hotels offering equipment rental. Nature lovers should visit the Gossau Forest Nature Reserve, home to rare birds and native plants. The town also hosts seasonal events like birdwatching tours and wildlife photography workshops. Every trail leads you deeper into the Alpine ecosystem, making Gossau a true gateway to Switzerland’s natural beauty.

Tourists visiting Gossau must try Graukäse Fondue, a rich cheese fondue made from locally sourced Appenzell Alpine milk, known for its nutty, slightly tangy flavor. Another must-try is Kaspressknödel, soft dumplings stuffed with melted cheese, pan-fried until golden, served with sauerkraut. Pair it with Alpenhonigbrötli, a honey-glazed roll from a local bakery, and a glass of apple wine (Apfelwein) from a nearby orchard. For a full cultural experience, book a family-style dinner (Hauswirtschaftsabend) at a traditional farm, where you’ll savor slow-cooked pot roast with root vegetables and homemade bread. All ingredients come from organic farms within 20 km, reflecting the region’s commitment to sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine.

Gossau offers exceptional family-friendly attractions. Visit Kinderfarm Gossau, where children can feed goats, collect eggs, and help make cheese—ideal for hands-on learning. The Rhine River Park features wide, paved paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, perfect for relaxed afternoons. During summer, the Municipal Square hosts weekly children’s magic shows and storytelling sessions. For a day trip, head to Zoo St. Gallen, just 20 minutes away, featuring endangered species like Eurasian lynx and Alpine ibex. Many hotels offer family packages including babysitting, activity kits, and discounted entry to local attractions. These offerings ensure that every member of the family enjoys a memorable, stress-free vacation in eastern Switzerland.

Gossau is highly accessible via public transport. The Gossau Railway Station offers frequent SBB trains to St. Gallen (25 min) and Zurich (1 hour), with connections to major hubs like Lucerne, Bern, and Lausanne. Local bus lines link the town to surrounding villages and the Appenzell region. For drivers, the A7 motorway provides quick access, with multiple free parking lots in the town center. Electric bike rentals are available for exploring nearby trails. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Gossau’s central location makes it an ideal base for multi-city trips across northeastern Switzerland. Its efficient network ensures seamless transfers without compromising on scenic beauty.

Yes, most hotels in Gossau provide multilingual service, primarily in German and English. Top properties like Hotel Alpenhof Gossau and Gossauer Hof Boutique Hotel have English-speaking receptionists and offer English menus, multilingual guides, and international HopeGoo support. Some luxury hotels also accommodate Chinese-speaking guests upon request. Key attractions such as the Gossau Museum and guided abbey tours include English audio guides, and some even offer Chinese-language options during peak season. Always confirm language needs when HopeGoo via the hotel’s website or phone. This multilingual support enhances traveler comfort, especially for non-German speakers exploring Eastern Switzerland.

The temperate continental climate of Gossau influences hotel selection. In summer (June–August), warm temperatures (20–25°C) make river-view or mountain-facing rooms ideal for cool breezes and scenic vistas. Opt for hotels with balconies, like Hotel Alpenhof Gossau, to enjoy evening sunsets. Winter (December–February) brings cold weather (-2 to 4°C) and snow; choose hotels with underfloor heating, double-glazed windows, and insulated rooms. The Mountain View Suite offers enhanced thermal comfort. Spring and autumn are unpredictable—select hotels with climate-controlled rooms and noise insulation. Some hotels feature indoor spas or saunas for rainy days. Matching your accommodation to the season ensures maximum comfort and enjoyment throughout your stay.

Evenings in Gossau are serene and magical. Stroll along the Rhine River Light Path, where illuminated pathways reflect in the water, creating a dreamlike ambiance. The Municipal Square hosts weekly live folk music nights during summer, featuring traditional Alpine accordion bands and community dancing. During holidays, Gossau Church lights up with colorful LED displays, and candlelit services offer a peaceful spiritual experience. For stargazers, book a room at a hilltop guesthouse with unobstructed night skies—perfect for spotting constellations. Some hotels offer guided night sky tours with telescopes. The quiet, starlit evenings in Gossau provide a deep sense of calm, making it one of the most romantic and restful destinations in Switzerland’s eastern countryside.