Ruin cave castle Wichenstein

The treasure of Wichenstein: In ancient times Wichenstein is said to have been a nest of robbers inhabited by evil fellows. Since their death the villains have had to atone for their misdeeds and walk around as big, black dogs.
More than a hundred years ago the "Rofahans" from Oberriet walked past the ruins at night and heard his name being called from within. He entered the old castle and discovered ancient dressed figures gathered around a table. On the table was a chest with a toad-like animal sitting on its lid and staring at him. The strange men told Rofahans to take the animal away - then all the money in the chest should be his. But when Rofahans tried, the toad inflated itself enormously and emitted a stinking smoke. So he abandoned his plan and fled from the cave in horror. But behind him, he heard a pitiful cry: "Woe is us! Now we must wait another thousand years for our salvation!"
Source: shortened version based on: Högl, Lukas - Burgen im Fels [Swiss contributions to the cultural history and archaeology of the Middle Ages, vol. 12] | Olten, 1986 | p. 72

Livia with Kaya (from 07.12.19):

Even today the sun remains hidden. Dull weather should not take away our good mood, no - we take this mood with us on our adventure in Wichenstein.

In the middle of the nature reserve, directly at the Wichenstein pond and Swiss family fireplace situated is also the free parking lot. there is the possibility to walk around the romantic pond from here (about 30 - 40 comfortable walking minutes / linen compulsory everywhere). At the end of the pond is also the ascent to the cave castle. Good shoes are recommended and attention: danger of falling rocks! The stairs are quite steep, but it is only a few minutes to the cave entrance, which is definitely worth it!

The four-storey front wall of the only grotto castle in the canton of St. Gallen is still quite well preserved. Behind it is a spacious cave, around 15 metres deep, which can be entered through a small gap in the wall. Numerous folk tales have grown up around the castle, which was probably the residence of the Knights of Wichenstein in the 13th century (source Burgenwelt.org/Switzerland).

We are glad, if we are back before nightfall, because this mystical atmosphere in the dark is not suitable for everyone ;-).