Isengrindfall

Isengrindfall is a waterfall at the head of the Weisstannental valley, in the municipality of Mels, canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland (Sarganserland region). Its height is usually given as about 230 metres, which places it among the tallest waterfalls in Europe.

What will you see?

The Scheubsbach stream leaves the Isengrind rock wall in one long, free fall and lands in a basin called Walabütz. Even from a distance the drop looks dramatic. Visitors like to compare it with the Staubbach Falls at Lauterbrunnen, which stand roughly 60 metres taller.

The fall sits at the end of the valley, framed by steep slopes. Below it, the power company Kraftwerke Sarganserland taps the water and sends it towards the Gigerwald reservoir, so the flow is partly managed. The valley's water drains eventually into the Seez river.

How do you get there?

From Mels, drive up the Weisstannental to the village of Weisstannen. Cross the bridge and follow the narrow road to the parking area where it ends. The Isengrindfall is already in clear view from there, so no hike is needed. Without a car, take a train to Sargans and a bus on to Weisstannen; you will then need to cover the remaining stretch to the road's end on your own.

What else is nearby?

A few minutes further on is the Mattbachfall, made up of two separate falls. In total the valley has seven named waterfalls and many unnamed ones. A different attraction is the Batöni waterfall arena above Weisstannen: a return hike of about 7 km (roughly 590 m of ascent, about three hours) along the Sardona World Heritage Trail. The hunting reserve en route often shows chamois, deer and ibex.

When should you go?

Early summer is best, when snowmelt feeds the stream and the fall carries the most water. Check local conditions before you set off, because mountain storms can close roads and trails for a while.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Isengrindfall? About 230 metres is the figure most often quoted. It comes from tourism sites, so it may vary slightly between sources.

Do I need to hike to see it? No. There is a good view from the parking area at the end of the road in Weisstannental.

When is the waterfall at its best? In early summer during snowmelt.

Are there other waterfalls close by? Yes. The Mattbachfall is a few minutes away, and the Batöni waterfall arena lies near Weisstannen.