🇨🇭 Best Lake Views Around St. Margrethen (2026 Travel Guide)

Where Is St. Margrethen and Why Is It Worth Visiting?

Tucked in the very northeast of Switzerland, right along the Austrian border and just minutes from Lake Constance (Bodensee), the town of St. Margrethen is a peaceful, scenic gateway between countries — and one of the most underrated spots to soak in unforgettable views of the lake.

St. Margrethen sits in the canton of St. Gallen, positioned at a natural convergence point: to the east lies Austria’s Vorarlberg, to the west, the Bodensee’s lakeshore stretches toward Romanshorn, and to the north, the horizon opens across the water into Germany. While not directly on the lake’s edge like towns such as Arbon or Rorschach, it offers close, easy access to some of the best panoramic viewpoints, cycling paths, spa facilities, and forested hilltops from which to take in the majesty of Lake Constance.

For expats living nearby, new employees in industrial hubs like Heerbrugg, or visitors just exploring off the beaten path, this guide offers everything you need to discover the top lake views near St. Margrethen — plus tips on how to reach them, when to go, and what to do once you’re there.

What’s the Historical Significance of St. Margrethen?

St. Margrethen has roots going back to the Roman era, when it served as a resting point along a major route between Germany and Italy. Archaeological finds show it was once part of the Roman province of Raetia — and the nearby border to Austria has always been both a passage and a meeting point.

The town later became known for its thermal springs — a natural resource that led to the creation of Mineralheilbad St. Margrethen, a modern wellness center that still attracts travelers today. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it developed into an important stop along the Swiss Federal Railway network, making it one of the earliest towns in the region to industrialize while still maintaining its scenic rural charm.

Where Can You Find the Best Lake Views Around St. Margrethen?

1. Kellenhöhe Lookout (Aussichtspunkt Kellenhöhe)

Located just south of the St. Margrethen town center, this hidden gem offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Constance, the Rheintal, and the Austrian Alps.

  • Best for: Photographers, hikers, and anyone wanting peaceful, elevated views
  • How to reach: 45-minute hike or short drive from the town center via Kellenstraße

Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for golden light over the lake and foggy layers in the hills below.

2. Lakefront in Rheineck (10 minutes away)

Just a short bike ride or train stop from St. Margrethen is the small town of Rheineck, which offers one of the closest and most accessible lakeside promenades. You can walk or cycle along the Alter Rhein Canal, follow it to the lake, and enjoy shaded sitting areas along the banks.

  • Best for: Couples, cyclists, families with strollers
  • Facilities: Benches, picnic spots, nearby cafés

Tourism info: https://rheineck.ch

3. Staad Seepromenade (15 minutes by bike or train)

The Staad Lake Promenade, located between Rheineck and Rorschach, is a flat, family-friendly walking path lined with trees, flowers, and playgrounds.

  • You’ll enjoy an unobstructed view across the lake to Lindau, Germany
  • Excellent for: Easy walks, lake photography, and picnic lovers
  • Access: Bus 304 or train to Staad SG Bahnhof

4. St. Margrethen Thermal Spa Viewpoint

Not only is the Mineralheilbad St. Margrethen a world-class spa — it also includes a small rooftop relaxation area with partial lake and alpine views, making it a rejuvenating and scenic stop.

When Is the Best Time to Visit These Lake Viewpoints?

Spring (March–May):
This is when everything starts blooming — from wildflowers along the Lediweg to the first green fields near the Alter Rhein. Morning light is clear and crisp, and views across the lake are particularly sharp after a spring rain. It’s also the perfect season for peaceful walks without the summer crowds.

Summer (June–August):
Long daylight hours and warm breezes make summer the top season for lake views. The Staad and Rheineck promenades are lively, and you can enjoy the cool shade under chestnut trees along the lakefront. This is also ideal for picnics, cycling, and relaxing spa afternoons at Mineralheilbad.

Fall (September–October):
Crisp air and golden leaves add a magical glow to the hills above the lake. Early mornings often bring a light mist that lifts to reveal breathtaking alpine silhouettes. Fall is also quieter, perfect for slower strolls along the Alter Rhein or scenic viewpoints like Kellenhöhe.

Winter (November–February):
For a peaceful, meditative view of the lake, winter can’t be beat. Snow often dusts the mountaintops, and the lake reflects a clear, blue-grey light. Visit the spa to warm up, or take a calm nature walk along the riverside.

How Do You Get to and Around St. Margrethen?

By Train:
St. Margrethen is well connected by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and easily reachable from St. Gallen, Zurich, or Bregenz (Austria). It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the train station to hiking paths, spa, and bike rentals.
https://www.sbb.ch

By Bus:
The OSTWIND regional network covers all nearby lake towns and villages. You can take a bus to Rheineck, Staad, Rorschach, or Bregenz with ease.
https://www.ostwind.ch

By Bicycle or On Foot:
The Bodensee-Radweg (Lake Constance Cycle Path) passes close by and is fully paved. You can reach lakeside promenades, nature trails, and lookout points easily without a car.
https://www.bodensee-radweg.com

By Car or Campervan:
There are free and paid parking options at:

  • Mineralheilbad St. Margrethen
  • Staad Seepromenade (Hafenstrasse)
  • Kellenhöhe trailhead

Campers can overnight at Stellplätze in Rheineck, Höchst, or near Rorschach with lake access and facilities.

FAQs

1. Is St. Margrethen directly on Lake Constance?
Not directly, but it's just 10–15 minutes by bike or public transport from lakeside spots like Staad, Rheineck, and Rorschach.

2. Are these lake views suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes — Staad promenade and the riverside paths along the Alter Rhein are flat, paved, and well-maintained.

3. Can you swim near St. Margrethen?
Yes! Head to Strandbad Rorschach or Seebad Staad for public beaches, changing rooms, and cafés. Both are within 15 minutes.

4. Do I need to pay entrance fees to the viewpoints?
No. All the panoramic trails, riverside walks, and lakefronts listed are free and open to the public.

5. Where can I eat nearby with a view?
Try Seegrube Café in Staad or pack your own and picnic at one of the benches along Lediweg or Rheindelta.

Did this guide help you discover the beauty of St. Margrethen’s hidden lakeside gems?

For more scenic routes, local travel tips, and hidden corners of the Bodensee region, follow MyBodensee on:

Need a printable version or interactive map for your trip? Let us know, and we’ll create one just for you.

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