Bütschwil – Schlosshöchi (1032m) – Laubberg (1168m) – Schnebelhorn (1291m) – Chruezegg (1313m) – Ricken

If you like bagging peaks (even if some of them are “mini-peaks”) then this is the hike for you! This is a glorious hike over numerous peaks along wide ridges between Bütschwil and Ricken in the Toggenburg area of north-east Switzerland.

We started in Bütschwil in Toggenburg and were quickly in beautiful rolling hills. After passing numerous farms and through the tiny villages of Dottingen and Aufeld we then climbed a little more steeply and the views opened up.

We were then soon at our first peak of the day – Schlosshöchi. Off again along the broad ridges towards the second mini-peak – Laubberg. Spring flowers are everywhere and now the peaks of Churfirsten come into sight.

The next peak is Schnebelhorn. Maybe the Swiss were not sure what to call this mountain? A mix of Schnee (snow) and Nebel (fog)? Maybe…

Anyway there are great views from this popular peak, time for some lunch and then off again along the ridge. What a glorious hike!

The further we hike, the more the Alps come into view.

Shortly after the peak of Chruezegg, we pass the Gasthaus Chruezegg. This is an ideal place for afternoon tea or a place to stay if you like to make this a multi-day hike.

The path and the peaks continue – watch out for the “lonely” tree on the ridge shortly after Tweralpspitz!

After Tweralpspitz, there is Rotsein and if you like another peak, a small diversion to Schwammegg. After this it is downhill all the way through Oberricken and then finally to the village of Ricken. From here it is a post-bus ride to Wattwil and train to Bütschwil with the wonderfully organised SBB.