Things To Do
in Mels
Mels is a quiet Swiss town in the canton of St. Gallen, perched at the foothills of the Alps along the Linth valley. It serves as a calm base for exploring lake views, forests, and nearby mountain trails. The town blends traditional Swiss architecture with scenic overlooks and easy rail connections to St. Gallen and Appenzell.
With well-marked paths and friendly local cafes, it's a great starting point for outdoor adventures and day trips in eastern Switzerland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Mels, where you'll encounter beautifully preserved architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the local bakery to indulge in freshly baked pastries and coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to visit the St. Peter and Paul Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that will amaze you.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the nearby Mels Castle, where you can explore its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, take a guided walking tour to learn about the town's rich heritage and the stories behind its historic buildings. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to a local art gallery to appreciate the works of Swiss artists.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center and savor traditional Swiss cuisine, such as fondue or rösti. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the River Sernf, where the sounds of nature create a serene atmosphere. Cap off your evening by enjoying a local craft beer at a pub, mingling with friendly locals.
Start your day with a refreshing hike along the trails surrounding Mels, where the crisp mountain air will invigorate your spirit. Choose a path that leads you through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the peaks surrounding the area. Along the way, take time to observe the diverse flora and fauna that call this pristine environment home.
After a morning in nature, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints, taking in the stunning vistas while recharging for the rest of the day. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Pizol mountain range, where you can take a cable car up for even more spectacular views. Engage in some photography or simply relax and admire the alpine scenery.
As dusk approaches, return to Mels and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that features locally-sourced ingredients. Savor the flavors of the region while enjoying a glass of Swiss wine. To end the evening, consider joining a guided night walk to experience the tranquil beauty of the Swiss Alps under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $60-90 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-6 |
| 🥤Local beer or soft drink | $6-8 |
| 🚇Public transport day pass | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful base for exploring eastern Switzerland
- Close to nature with easy access to trails and lakes
- Limited nightlife within Mels itself
- Smaller town feel compared to larger Swiss cities
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Mels
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverside path with reflections of trees and water, perfect for morning light and long exposures.
Gentle hillside viewpoints above Mels offering sweeping valley views and Alpine silhouettes at sunset.
Cobblestone streets and traditional Swiss architecture with shuttered windows and warm façades.
Distance views of the lake and distant mountains provide dramatic landscape shots.
Food in Mels
Mels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy Alpine macaroni with potatoes and onions, typically served with apple sauce on the side.
Must-Try!
Crispy potato rösti, often served with eggs, cheese, or vegetables—the Swiss breakfast staple and versatile supper.
Assortment of Appenzell cheeses with bread, pickles, and honey; pair with a local apple cider.
Oats soaked in milk or yogurt with grated apple, nuts, and fruit; a classic Swiss breakfast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional farmers markets with fresh cheese, bread, produce, and regional specialties; check local notices for dates.
Snack stalls and cafés offering pastries, sandwiches, and regional snacks in town centers and train stations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A customary Swiss-German greeting; greet locals when meeting them on the street or in shops.
Be on time for meetings and trains; Swiss culture values punctuality.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Mels
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not required.
Cash (CHF) and cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh blooms; carry a light jacket for chilly mornings and occasional showers.
Warm days ideal for outdoor hiking and lake visits; expect occasional rain and comfortable evenings.
Golden foliage and harvest-time flavors; pack layers for cooler days and cooler nights.
Cold with possible snow; the hills become quieter and great for winter walks and nearby ski areas.
Mels at Night
Hiking in Mels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes along the Linth River and surrounding meadows with scenic viewpoints.
Short-to-moderate hikes in the rolling Appenzell foothills with pastoral scenery.
Ridge routes offering sweeping lake and mountain panorama.
Airports
How to reach Mels by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by train or car from Mels.
Regional airport closer to the area, offering connections to several European destinations.
Nearby airport in Germany with limited European connections; convenient for some itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly German-speaking Swiss families and retirees, with a growing number of international residents in nearby towns.
Visitors seeking nature, hiking, and a quiet Swiss town experience.
People who travel to St. Gallen or other towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the broader region during winter; day trips to nearby resorts are common.
Widely enjoyed in spring through autumn with panoramic views.
Road cycling in rolling valleys and mountain trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Swiss menus feature vegetarian options like cheese plates, rösti with vegetables, and salads. Inform servers of any dietary needs and consider fruit and dairy-based dishes.