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

In Nekhtal, the top choice for mountain views is Hotel Alpenblick, offering panoramic vistas of the Appenzell Alps from its large windows and private balconies. This family-friendly hotel features cozy rooms, a breakfast buffet with local dairy products, and easy access to hiking trails leading to the Lake Nekhtal.

For a more authentic experience, consider Berggasthof Hinterwald, a traditional alpine inn nestled in the forested hills. It offers rustic charm, locally sourced meals, and guided nature walks through meadows filled with wildflowers. Both properties provide ideal bases for exploring the scenic Canton St. Gallen region.

The best area for accommodation in Nekhtal is the Lakeside District, where most boutique hotels and charming restaurants are located. This central zone offers direct access to Lake Nekhtal and the historic St. Martin Church, surrounded by serene landscapes perfect for morning walks or evening strolls.

The area is well-connected by cycling paths and foot trails leading into the surrounding countryside of Canton St. Gallen. Hotels like Hotel Seehof provide private docks and boat rentals, allowing guests to enjoy the lake’s tranquil beauty up close—ideal for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Visitors to Nekhtal can participate in unique cultural experiences such as a hands-on cheese-making workshop at a local farm, learning to craft Glarner Cheese, a regional specialty of Canton St. Gallen. Each summer, the Nekhtal Folk Festival celebrates traditional music, folk costumes, and artisan markets, showcasing vibrant Eastern Swiss heritage.

Guided forest walks led by elder locals offer storytelling sessions about Alpine legends and ancient herding traditions, providing an immersive journey into the village’s rich history and connection to nature.

Yes, Nekhtal offers excellent hiking trails, including the Lakeside Loop Trail (6 km), which winds through pine forests, meadows, and scenic overlooks with breathtaking views of Lake Nekhtal and distant alpine peaks. Another popular route is the Höhenweg Trail, ascending from the village center to a 1,200-meter viewpoint, passing through diverse flora and spotting wildlife.

All trails are well-marked with rest benches and drinking water stations. Ideal for all fitness levels, these paths are best explored early in the morning to avoid afternoon sun and enjoy peaceful mountain air.

Yes, many hotels in Nekhtal provide authentic local food experiences. Hotel Alpenblick hosts the "Alp Table" dinner series, featuring chef-prepared meals using regional ingredients like fresh cheese, dark rye bread, and slow-cooked beef stew from Canton St. Gallen.

At Berggasthof Hinterwald, guests can join a "Farm to Table" day experience, harvesting vegetables, milking cows, and crafting traditional Swiss dishes such as Rösti. These immersive activities enhance the stay while deepening understanding of Eastern Swiss culinary traditions and rural life.

Yes, Nekhtal is highly accessible by car and ideal for self-drive travelers. The town has public parking lots and EV charging stations, with main roads connecting directly to St. Gallen (45 minutes) and Zurich (1.5 hours). The drive from St. Gallen Airport (SGN) takes just 30 minutes, passing through scenic hills and forests.

Local buses run regularly to nearby villages and attractions. Self-drivers can also benefit from the Swiss Travel Pass, which includes free public transport, enabling flexible exploration across the region.

In winter, Nekhtal offers a range of activities, including ice boating on the frozen Lake Nekhtal, with designated safe zones and professional guides. Nearby snow trails are perfect for beginners and families, featuring sled rentals and heated rest shelters.

For skiing enthusiasts, a 30-minute drive leads to Alpine Slope Ski Resort, offering intermediate to advanced runs. During the season, the town hosts the Winter Light Festival, where streets glow with colorful lights, complemented by hot chocolate stands and artisan markets—perfect for experiencing the magical charm of Eastern Swiss winters.