Hint

Intro

A wonderful tour for savourers, which leads through desolate protected moors around Lake Chapfen. They are a treasure-trove for botanists and lovers of nature.

Description

From Mels the route leads to the Seez river and along the bottom of the valley to the hamlet of Plons. This is where the smooth climb begins through the quiet, untouched and lovely scenery. The views of the mountains of Appenzell in the north and the Seeztal Valley are amazing.

Past solitary buildings, small forest sections and mountain streams you get to Wildenberg. The Schönhalden mountain hotel is a nice place to stretch your legs and enjoy some refreshments. Another short ascent leads past Alp Kohlschlag with its rustic “Sennäbeizli” restaurant. Next is the Chilchwald forest. A bumpy access road and a narrow hiking trail then take you down across Alpine meadows. This crossing is a challenge for your riding skills and a fantastic nature experience.

Through the wetlands east of Chapfensee you reach the dam. Take a detour to the lake. It is said to be full of fish and it’s nice to walk around it. The nature preserve looks like a dense mosaic of forests, meadows and some small settlements. At the inlet of the lake, you find a number of campfire sites and a small shop. You can take a break here or go for a refreshing swim.

The downhill run on a narrow road leading to the valley and Mels is fun. The rocks and tree stumps on the northeast slope are covered by moss and every now and then, you can catch a glimpse of the majestic mountains between the trees. Some of the switchbacks through the forest run along the steeply dropping Seeztobel and Mülitobel ravines. Back in a populated area, you pass the charming St. Martin’s chapel and then continue through the village, back to the train station and the beginning of the tour.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Mels
Destination
Mels
Ascent
1400 m
Descent
1400 m
Distance
26 km
Distance on tarred ways
19 km
Distance on natural surface
7 km
Technical requirements
Easy
Physical requirements
Difficult
Signalization
Signalisation in one direction
More information https://www.schweizmobil.ch/en/mountainbikeland/ro...

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Contact

Ferienregion Heidiland
Am Platz 1
7310  Bad Ragaz

Phone  +41 (0)81 300 40 20
spavillage@heidiland.com
heidiland.com

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 473

Distance

26 km

Ascent

1400 m

Travel information: Mels / Heiligkreuz

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