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

In Gossau, the top choice for lakeside views is Hotel Alpenhof, a boutique hotel nestled along the Lake Zurich shoreline. Its panoramic windows offer unobstructed vistas of the water and the distant Pizt Mountain. The hotel features a private thermal spa, organic Swiss cuisine, and direct access to the lakeside promenade. For a historic alternative, Gossauer Hof combines 19th-century architecture with modern luxury, offering elegant rooms and an award-winning restaurant. Both properties provide exceptional tranquility and natural beauty, ideal for nature lovers and couples seeking serenity.

The best area for staying in Gossau is the town center, located near St. John's Church and the lakefront promenade. It offers easy access to local cafes, shops, and cultural spots while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. For guests seeking privacy and scenic views, the Lerchenfeld lakeside district is ideal—home to secluded villas with private docks and mountain vistas. Public transport is convenient: the S-Bahn S16 connects Gossau to Zurich HB in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for travelers who want both convenience and calm.

Visitors to Gossau should not miss the traditional Swiss cheese-making workshop at Bergland Cheese Farm, where you can participate in milking, curdling, and pressing local Appenzell cheese. Every summer, the Gossau Lake Festival brings live folk music, local bands, and fireworks at the lakeside park. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Old Town Hall ruins and the well-preserved 15th-century church frescoes. These experiences offer authentic insight into the town’s rural heritage and community spirit.

Yes, Gossau is highly family-friendly. The Lake Zurich Children’s Playground features slides, sand pits, and interactive water fountains perfect for kids aged 3–12. The Nature Education Center (Naturzentrum Gossau) offers guided ecological tours and insect discovery activities. Hotels like Hotel Alpenhof provide child-friendly meals and evening storytelling sessions. Families can also rent electric bikes and ride along the lakeside trail, which includes rest stops and scenic viewpoints—safe, fun, and educational for all ages.

Must-try dishes in Gossau include Rösti from Graubünden, a golden, crispy potato dish served with butter and fried eggs. Cheese fondue at Gossauer Hof uses premium Appenzell cheese and is accompanied by fresh bread and boiled potatoes. Don’t miss handmade dark chocolate from local brand ChocoAlp, available at on-site workshops. Every weekend, the Markthalle Gossau market sells artisanal breads, honey, and seasonal vegetables—ideal for sampling regional flavors and supporting local producers.

From Zurich HB Train Station, take the S-Bahn S16 (ZVV network), which runs every 30 minutes and reaches Gossau Station in about 25 minutes. The journey offers scenic views of Lake Zurich and the foothills of the Alps. From the station, it’s a 5-minute walk to the town center. Alternatively, from Zurich Airport (ZRH), take the Airport Express to Zurich HB, then transfer to S16—total travel time around 40 minutes. Tickets can be booked in advance via the SBB website for discounts on student or family passes.

Top photo locations in Gossau include the Lakeside Promenade, especially at sunrise when mist curls over the Lake Zurich surface, reflecting the St. John’s Church spire. The Pizt Mountain Cable Car station offers a wooden viewing platform with sweeping panoramas of alpine peaks and shimmering water. The historic façade of the Old Town Hall, adorned with colorful stained glass and stone carvings, is perfect for architectural photography. In spring and summer, the Rosenpark Gossau rose garden bursts into bloom—ideal for romantic or candid shots against a backdrop of mountains and lake.

Gossau has a temperate continental climate. Summer (June–August) averages 18–24°C, with sunny, dry days ideal for lakeside walks and hiking. Winter (December–February) is cold with frequent snowfall, making it excellent for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring and autumn are often cloudy and rainy—pack a waterproof jacket. Due to its location on the western shore of Lake Zurich, humidity is moderate. Check MeteoSwiss forecasts before outdoor plans to avoid unexpected weather disruptions.

Nightlife in Gossau is quiet and sophisticated. Café Lido is a favorite gathering spot, serving homemade pastries, fine wines, and hosting poetry readings and jazz nights. Alpenstern Bar, located within Hotel Alpenhof, offers craft beers and whisky tastings in a cozy, wood-paneled setting. For more vibrant options, head to Zurich city center, just 25 minutes away by train, where you’ll find numerous bars and clubs. Overall, Gossau suits travelers seeking relaxation and refined evenings.

For couples, Gossau offers unforgettable romance. Book a lakeside dinner cruise on Lake Zurich, featuring candlelit tables, live music, and starry reflections. The Pizt Mountain cable car night ride provides breathtaking views of the illuminated town and glittering lake below. Stay in the Love Suite at Gossauer Hof, complete with a private hot tub and custom scented candles. Couples can also enjoy a lakeside sunset walk or take a hands-on ceramics workshop, creating keepsake pieces together.