Werdenbergersee

Werdenbergersee is a small lake in Buchs (SG), in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. It sits on the Rhine valley floor at about 447 m above sea level, directly below the historic small town of Werdenberg. Together with the castle and the old lanes above, it makes one of the most photographed scenes in the Rheintal.

Where is Werdenbergersee?

The lake lies right beneath Werdenberg. The administrative picture is unusual: the town and its castle belong to the municipality of Grabs, while the water lies entirely within Buchs. The split dates to 1803, when Werdenberg became part of the canton of St. Gallen. Buchs kept the lake, and Grabs received the town and castle.

What can you see at the lake?

The main draw is the view of Werdenberg's medieval houses mirrored in the water. The town is listed in the Swiss federal inventory of protected sites, so its timber houses and compact street plan have kept their historic character. Schloss Werdenberg rises above it all. The Hilty family bought it in 1835 and handed it to the canton in 1956. Since 2007 it has worked as a cultural centre and hosts, among other events, the Schlossfestspiele summer festival.

For many years the lake also served as a water reservoir for the villagers of Werdenberg. Today its role is mainly scenic and ecological.

Can you swim here?

Do not expect a bathing beach. The Werdenberger See falls under a cantonal protection ordinance that restricts entering and using the protected area, and it expressly bans remote-controlled boats. Fishing and hunting remain permitted under the hunting rules. Most visitors enjoy the lake from the shore and the paths nearby. If you plan to get in the water, check local rules with the Werdenberg region tourist office first.

How do you get there?

From Werdenberg, the lake is a few minutes on foot, since it lies directly below the town. The nearest larger centre is Buchs SG, in the Rhine valley close to the Liechtenstein border, with good rail connections. A short walk leads from the lower ground up into the town and to the castle. Cars are left outside the historic centre.

When should you visit?

Calm, windless days give the best reflections of the castle and houses. Summer brings events at the castle, while spring and autumn are quieter. One to two hours is enough for a lakeside stroll and the town.

Frequently asked questions

Which municipality is Werdenbergersee in?

Buchs, even though the neighbouring town of Werdenberg belongs to Grabs.

Is swimming allowed in Werdenbergersee?

The lake is a protected area with restrictions on access and use. Do not treat it as a bathing lake.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

The town of Werdenberg, whose old centre is federally protected, and Schloss Werdenberg with its cultural centre.

How high is the lake?

About 447 m above sea level, on the Rhine valley floor.