Top 9 Castles around Neckertal
Best castles around Neckertal are found in this picturesque region of Eastern Switzerland, offering a glimpse into its rich history. The area features a diverse landscape with historic ruins and well-preserved castles. These landmarks provide cultural significance and opportunities for outdoor exploration amidst natural beauty.
Best castles around Neckertal
- The most popular castles is Helfenberg Castle Ruins, a castle that was likely built in the early 13th century. These ruins were destroyed in 1407 during the Appenzell Wars and have been secured and preserved since the 1960s.
- Another must-see spot is Neutoggenburg Castle Ruins, a historical site with expansive views. These ruins are the remnants of the ancestral seat of the Counts of Toggenburg, believed to have been built in the early 13th century.
- Visitors also love Oberberg Castle, a castle that functions as an excursion destination and restaurant. Today's Oberberg Castle was largely constructed in the mid-16th century and offers views of the Alpstein.
- Neckertal is known for its castle ruins and well-preserved castles. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, from ancient fortifications to structures that have been repurposed.
- The castles around Neckertal are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
Helfenberg Castle Ruins
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The castle was probably built in the first half of the 13th century. It was a residence of the Gielen von Glattbrugg family. In 1244, the castle was part of the foundation of the knight Rudolf Giel von Glattbrugg for the Magdenau monastery. The family continued to manage the castle - probably as a fief - and in 1341 the castle was rebuilt by the family. For knight Rudolf II Giel von Glattbrugg in 1244, who had founded the Magdenau monastery, the estate on which the previous building, the "castrum Helfinberc", had once stood, was part of his foundation. The castle was apparently already dilapidated at that time.
From then on, the imperial monastery had servants manage Helfenberg. By 1388 at the latest, the Princely Abbey of St. Gallen was the owner of the castle complex. In 1401 it was besieged by the surrounding farmers, which ultimately led to the Appenzell Wars, in which the castle was completely destroyed in 1407. The complex fell into disrepair and then largely slid into the Glatt ravine. This was their last act after the Appenzell Wars. The castle complex, destroyed by the rebellious farmers, was then left to decay.
The first excavations were carried out between 1935 and 1937. In 1939 the ruins came into the possession of the Oberberg cooperative in Gossau. Since 1964/1965 the ruins have been secured and preserved to their current state. The ruins are located not far from the Glatt gorge and not far from the Kolumbanshöhle. Access is only recommended on foot and with hiking equipment.
Text / Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Helfenberg_(St._Gallen)
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Neutoggenburg Castle Ruins
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The Neutoggenburg marks a central place in the reign of "Tokko". With a family castle in the lower Thur valley, first mentioned in 1044, the Counts of Toggenburg became masters over almost the entire canton of St. Gallen, Vorarlberg and parts of Graubünden in the approximately 400 years of their eventful and often adventurous stories, albeit in constant dispute with the monastery of St Galls.
1468 bought the monastery the lands of today's Toggenburg. The fortress began to crumble.
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Rosenberg Ruins with barbecue area
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The Rosenberg ruins are the ruins of a hilltop castle above the hamlet of Burghalden north of Herisau in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden.
The castle was built in 1150 by the Lords of Rorschach, who then named themselves von Rosenberg after their possessions and always had a rose bush in their coat of arms. Around 1303, the lords of the castle held Christmas at the castle with the abbot of St. Gallen and 70 Swabian bailiffs.
During the Appenzell Wars, the strategically important facility was set on fire by insurgents and was not rebuilt afterwards. Around the middle of the 15th century, the ruins came into the possession of the St. Gallen Abbey, which remained the owner until the secularization in 1803. Today the ruins of Rosenberg belong to the municipality of Herisau.
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Iberg Castle (or Yburg) above Wattwil
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Rosenburg Castle Ruins
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Steep ascent with MTB from Herisau, first on a meadow path and then on a forest path. Inside the castle walls, a rather large rest area with a fireplace.
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The detour is steep but worthwhile.
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from the highest point an extremely spectacular MTB descent 😃
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This is the Rosenberg ruin, not Rosenburg (as mentioned by Martina, which is located west of Herisau near Ramsen). The Rosenberg, Rosenburg and Urstein castles were once a trio. Four-sided foundation walls up to a height of 5 m have been preserved. Inside and outside with barbecue areas.
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Built after 1200 by the Counts of Toggenburg, it began to decay in 1468. The preserved foundation walls cover a fairly large area.
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Castle / Castle ruins Helfenberg, Gossau SG The castle was probably built in the first half of the 13th century. It was a residence of the Gielen von Glattbrugg family. In 1244, the castle was part of the foundation of the knight Rudolf Giel von Glattbrugg for the Magdenau monastery. The family continued to manage the castle - probably as a fief - and in 1341 the castle was rebuilt by the family. For knight Rudolf II Giel von Glattbrugg in 1244, who had founded the Magdenau monastery, the estate on which the previous building, the "castrum Helfinberc", had once stood, was part of his foundation. The castle was apparently already dilapidated at that time. From then on, the imperial monastery had servants manage Helfenberg. By 1388 at the latest, the Princely Abbey of St. Gallen was the owner of the castle complex. In 1401 it was besieged by the surrounding farmers, which ultimately led to the Appenzell Wars, in which the castle was completely destroyed in 1407. The complex fell into disrepair and then largely slid into the Glatt ravine. This was their last act after the Appenzell Wars. The castle complex, destroyed by the rebellious farmers, was then left to decay. The first excavations were carried out between 1935 and 1937. In 1939 the ruins came into the possession of the Oberberg cooperative in Gossau. Since 1964/1965 the ruins have been secured and preserved to their current state. The ruins are located not far from the Glatt gorge and not far from the Kolumbanshöhle. Access is only recommended on foot and with hiking equipment. Text / Source: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Helfenberg_(St._Gallen)
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Very interesting ruin, as Tanja and Heloks already described. But the sight and the view must be earned, the ascent and descent are quite steep.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical significance do the castles in Neckertal hold?
The castles and ruins in Neckertal offer a deep dive into the region's past. For example, the Neutoggenburg Castle Ruins were the ancestral seat of the powerful Counts of Toggenburg, playing a central role in their reign. Similarly, Helfenberg Castle Ruins were once a residence for the Gielen von Glattbrugg family and were destroyed during the Appenzell Wars.
Are there family-friendly castles or ruins to visit in Neckertal?
Yes, the Rosenberg Ruins are particularly family-friendly. Located in a forested area above Herisau, they feature two grill grates and ample seating, making it an ideal spot for a barbecue and a pleasant outing, especially on warm summer days.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in Neckertal?
Many castles and ruins in the Neckertal region offer expansive and scenic views. From Neutoggenburg Castle Ruins, you can enjoy a great view of the Toggenburg valley. Oberberg Castle provides a wonderful view of the Alpstein mountains, while Iberg Castle offers nice views from its well-preserved tower.
Can I combine a castle visit with outdoor activities like hiking?
Absolutely. The castles and ruins in Neckertal are often integrated into hiking routes. For instance, access to Helfenberg Castle Ruins is recommended on foot with hiking equipment, as it's located near the Glatt gorge. You can find various hiking trails in the region, including mountain hikes, by exploring the Mountain Hikes around Neckertal guide.
Are there dining options available at any of the castles?
Yes, Oberberg Castle functions as a first-class restaurant in addition to being an excursion destination and wedding venue. It offers a unique opportunity to enjoy fine dining in a historic setting.
What is the best time to visit the castles in Neckertal?
The castles and ruins in Neckertal are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Summer days are ideal for visiting the Rosenberg Ruins, especially if you plan to use the barbecue facilities. For castles like Iberg Castle, parts may be partially closed in winter, so summer offers full access.
Are there other outdoor activities besides hiking near the castles?
Yes, the Neckertal region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes or enjoy cycling tours that often pass by scenic viewpoints and historical sites, including some castles.
How accessible are the castle ruins for visitors?
Accessibility varies by site. While Oberberg Castle is noted as wheelchair accessible, many ruins like Helfenberg Castle Ruins are best accessed on foot with hiking equipment due to their location near gorges or on narrow forest paths. Public transport options are available to reach the general Neckertal area, but direct access to all ruins may require walking.
What are some lesser-known but interesting castle ruins to explore?
Beyond the more prominent sites, the Rosenberg Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into history. Built around 1150, these hilltop castle remains are a popular spot for visitors, featuring well-preserved foundation walls and a pleasant forested setting for relaxation.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Neckertal?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Many enjoy the expansive views from sites like Neutoggenburg Castle Ruins and the opportunity to explore ancient fortifications. The integration of these sites into scenic hiking paths and the availability of amenities like barbecue areas at Rosenberg Ruins also contribute to a positive experience.
Are there any castles that are well-preserved rather than just ruins?
Yes, Oberberg Castle is a well-preserved example. Largely constructed in the mid-16th century, it stands as a prominent landmark and functions as an excursion destination, wedding venue, and restaurant, offering a more complete castle experience compared to the ruins.
Can I find circular walks that include castle ruins?
While specific circular walks for each ruin are not detailed, the region's extensive network of hiking and cycling trails often allows for routes that loop back to a starting point, incorporating castle ruins. You can plan such routes using the Komoot app, which features many trails around the Neckertal region.
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