Amriswil – Hagenwil – Wilen – Hauptwil – Bischofszell

This is a lovely and easy hike with a panorama view of Thurgau. There is a castle to see, a river to cross and if you go in autumn, also some apples to pick.

Start from train station and make your way out of Amriswil towards Räuchlisberg. Turn left towards Hagenwil before reaching the woods. There are a few orchards to pass on the way.

In Hagenwil you will pass Hagenwil castle, one of Switzerlands best preserved moat castles which is said to stem from the 13th century.

Past the castle, the hiking path turns right but if you continue straight and soon turn left, there is a chance to buy some local farm products in a small farm shop.

Back on the path, follow it through some more orchards and villages until reaching Degenau chapel.

After the chapel you will soon reach the Sitter ferry which offers a historic way of crossing the river. The ferry needs notification to be used during the week. On the weekend it runs once an hour or sometimes more often, if you ring the bell to notify the ferryman (or woman) on the other side. There is a small fee for the ferry but it’s a very fair price (only a few Swiss Francs per person when we were there).

After the ferry crossing turn right and make your way towards Wilen. Past the village the path leads along a number of ponds, which offer some lovely views across the water.

Past the ponds make your way into Hauptwilen which is home to a castle and some stunning half timber houses. So it’s well worth taking your time while working through this pretty town.

From Hauptwilen make your way into Bischoffszell from where you can then take the bus back to Amriswil.