Things To Do
in Mels
Mel is a charming village located in the canton of St. Gallen in Switzerland. It is known for its picturesque setting surrounded by the beautiful Swiss Alps. The village offers a perfect escape for nature lovers with numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area.
Visitors can also explore the historic buildings and traditional Swiss architecture in the quaint village center.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $6
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Mels, admiring the stunning architecture. Enjoy a warm pastry from a local bakery for breakfast.
Visit the nearby Gonzen Castle and soak in the history of the region. Take a scenic hike to appreciate the beautiful Alpine scenery.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the village, savoring traditional Swiss dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk along the river.
Catch a cable car from Mels to the top of the nearby mountains. Take in breathtaking views and capture memorable photos.
Engage in outdoor activities like hiking or mountain biking through beautiful trails. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic overlook.
Return to Mels and relax at a local café with a warm drink. Treat yourself to some Swiss chocolate for dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque alpine scenery and breathtaking views.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture.
- Proximity to outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
- High quality of life with excellent healthcare and education systems.
- Low crime rate and a safe environment.
- High cost of living, including housing and everyday expenses.
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
- Possible isolation due to its mountainous location.
- Harsh winter weather conditions may not be suitable for everyone.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Mels
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the UNESCO Biosfera in Mels, featuring stunning alpine scenery and diverse wildlife, perfect for hikers of all levels.
Discover numerous trails for mountain biking in and around Mels, offering a mix of challenging terrains and scenic views for both beginners and experienced riders.
Take a day trip to the nearby Churfirsten mountain range for breathtaking views, rock climbing, and various hiking routes suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy a leisurely day out at Mels Park, which provides beautiful green spaces, picnic spots, and playgrounds, ideal for families and friends.
Experience the thrill of paragliding above Mels and take in the stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscapes and the Rhine Valley.
Try your hand at fishing in one of the nearby lakes, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings while potentially catching a local fish.
During the winter months, engage in various winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at nearby resorts accessible from Mels.
Join a guided horseback riding tour along beautiful trails that offer a unique perspective of Mels' stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mels with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mels
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing beautiful photographs.
A scenic park that provides a tranquil setting and excellent vantage points for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The church's tower offers a viewpoint where visitors can see the town and the landscapes beyond, ideal for architectural photography.
A serene area near the monastery with picturesque views of the Alps, great for nature photography and quiet reflections.
A charming chapel located on a hill that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect photo spot.
Accessible by hiking, this location rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the region, ideal for outdoor and landscape photography.
Food in Mels
Mels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory dish of macaroni, potatoes, cheese, and onions, often accompanied by applesauce. Superb versions can be enjoyed at Gasthaus Edelweiss and Gasthaus zum Weissen Kreuz.
Must-Try!
This Swiss-style hash brown made from grated potatoes is a must-try. For authentic renditions, visit Restaurant Burg or Restaurant St. Gallerhof.
Indulge in a delicious pastry filled with caramelized nuts, traditionally found at local bakeries like Confiserie Heiri or Confiserie Dhein.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mels better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience local flavors and fresh produce at the Mels Saturday Market, where one can relish the delectable aromas and flavors of regional specialties and artisanal products.
Throughout the year, Mels hosts delightful street food festivals, offering a wide variety of international and local street foods, perfect for indulging in diverse culinary experiences.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mels, being punctual is highly valued. Arriving on time for meetings, social gatherings, and appointments shows respect for others' time. If you anticipate being late, it is courteous to inform the host or relevant parties.
Switzerland has a strong cultural emphasis on politeness. It is common to greet people with titles such as 'Herr' or 'Frau' followed by their last name. Use formal language until invited to speak more casually.
The Swiss have a deep respect for nature and the environment. Be mindful of littering or causing noise in public spaces and follow recycling guidelines. This behavior reflects your consideration for the community and surroundings.
Safety
Tipping in Mels
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mels, Switzerland, tipping is generally perceived as a reward for exceptional service rather than an obligation. While service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation. Tipping is also appreciated in other service sectors, such as taxis and hotels, but it is not mandatory.
Mels, like the rest of Switzerland, embraces a variety of payment methods. Cash is still widely accepted, but card payments (credit and debit) are increasingly common, especially in shops and restaurants. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity. It is advisable to check for whether establishments accept specific payment methods beforehand, especially in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Mels is a beautiful time to visit, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. Expect pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the local nature, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C.
Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the scenic landscapes. Average temperatures can reach up to 25°C, making it perfect for enjoying the longer daylight hours.
Autumn offers stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. The weather is still mild, ideal for hiking and enjoying the outdoor scenery, with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C. Expect fewer tourists than in summer.
Winter in Mels is great for snow sports and enjoying the winter landscape. Expect colder temperatures, often below freezing, and the possibility of snow, making it a picturesque season for skiing and snowboarding.
Mels at Night
Hiking in Mels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking route offering stunning views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike with well-marked trails.
A popular hiking destination in the Glarus Alps, known for its panoramic vistas and a variety of trails suited for all levels, including the Pizol Five Lakes hike.
A scenic hiking area that provides trails for family-friendly walks and more challenging routes with beautiful views of the Alpstein mountains.
Offers a range of hiking trails with views of the Walensee lake, featuring routes suitable for all skill levels, including paths leading to the impressive Churfirsten range.
A popular mountain destination with numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, including routes for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Mels by plane.
Switzerland's largest international airport, located approximately 60 km from Mels. It serves as a major hub for both international and domestic flights.
An international airport located about 120 km from Mels, serving the tri-national area of Switzerland, France, and Germany.
Located around 280 km from Mels, this is the second largest airport in Switzerland and serves numerous international destinations.
Situated approximately 180 km from Mels, this airport connects the Swiss capital with various international and regional flights.
Located about 30 km from Mels, this smaller international airport offers flights mainly to other European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group comprising citizens of Switzerland.
Individuals who have European ancestry, including immigrants from neighboring countries.
People living in Mels who hold citizenship from countries outside Switzerland.
Younger population segment, including students and young working professionals.
Senior citizens, often retired, representing a significant part of the community.
Households consisting of parents and children, reflecting the family-oriented aspect of the town.
Single adults living alone or with roommates, contributing to diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a highly popular sport in Mels, with local clubs and community involvement.
The scenic trails around Mels make mountain biking a favored activity among residents and visitors.
With access to numerous trails in the surrounding mountains, hiking is a popular pastime for locals.
The proximity to ski resorts attracts many skiing enthusiasts during the winter months.
Tennis is commonly played in Mels, with several available courts and clubs for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Mels offer vegetarian options, while some, like Restaurant Alvier, provide delicious vegan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary requirements will find accommodating options at Restaurant Burg, which offers a variety of gluten-free dishes without compromising on taste and quality.