Klein Rigi wins the Thurgau Tourism Prize 2024

Arbon, May 12, 2025 - The Thurgau Tourism Award, endowed with 10,000 Swiss francs, was presented today during the 106th annual meeting of Thurgau Tourism at the Presswerk Gastronomie & Eventhalle in Arbon. This year's award goes to a traditional establishment that has developed into a real gem in Thurgau tourism with a great deal of innovative spirit and entrepreneurial foresight.

The jury's appraisal
The jury particularly appreciates the impressive transformation of the dancing venue, once known beyond the canton's borders, into a stylish hotel with charm, character and high quality. The unmistakable ensemble of historic buildings, breathtaking views and lovingly furnished themed rooms provide the setting for an unforgettable stay. The hotel spoils its guests with regional gourmet cuisine and an exquisite wine cellar.

Last but not least, the hotel has established itself as a banquet specialist: whether weddings, family celebrations or corporate events - the establishment impresses with tailor-made offers and warm hospitality. Werner Fritschi, President of the Cantonal Board of Thurgau Tourism, emphasized in his congratulations: "With a great sense of history, design and quality, a tourism jewel has been created here in the countryside that delights guests from near and far - in the spirit of #typischthurgau."
After the official award ceremony, owner Walter Arnold addressed his team with warm words of thanks. He emphasized that the success was primarily due to the great commitment of his employees - and announced that the prize would go entirely to them. After all, the hotel's continued success is based on their commitment and the trust of the guests.

From cult dancing to a stylish overall experience - the history of the building goes back several decades and is characterized by eventful times. The bold decision to realign the building and the careful renovation were not only architecturally impressive, but also appealed to new target groups. The result is a place that impresses with its unique combination of gastronomy, hotel business and event expertise - a prime example of successful structural change in rural areas.
The operators consistently focus on quality, sustainability and regionality. Many ingredients come from local producers, and long-standing partnerships underline the close ties to the region. With their passion and innovative strength, they enrich Thurgau tourism in the long term. Thurgau Tourism is proud to honor this commitment with the Thurgau Tourism Award.

The other four nominated businesses also make an important contribution to the further development of tourism in Thurgau and are exemplary of the broad commitment in the industry. In addition to the winning project, the rest of the top field is also impressive. The Thurgau ball track "Rugelreise" took 3rd place and the Fischerhäuser secured a strong 2nd place. All of the companies impressively demonstrate how much innovative spirit and commitment there is in Thurgau tourism.

The Thurgau Tourism Prize as a motivational boost
The Thurgau Tourism Prize as a driver of innovation is being awarded for the 24th time by Thurgau Tourism - with the support of the Thurgauer Kantonalbank as a long-standing prize sponsor. The prize is intended to recognize outstanding achievements and pioneering offers that strengthen tourism in the canton of Thurgau . It also serves as motivation for further innovative projects and committed hosts. This year's award ceremony took place today, Monday, May 12, 2025, as part of the annual meeting of Thurgau Tourism in Arbon.

Picture credits

  • Tourism Award Winner Team Klein Rigi, Copyright: Thurgau Tourismus
  • Klein Rigi exterior view, Copyright: Klein Rigi
  • Klein Rigi Restaurant, Copyright: Klein Rigi
  • Klein Rigi hotel room, Copyright: Klein Rigi

For further information
Thurgau Tourismus
Rolf Müller, Managing Director
Friedrichshafnerstrasse 55a, 8590 Romanshorn
rolf.mueller@thurgau-bodensee.ch, Tel. 071 531 01 32