Escape the fog soup

The golden autumn shows all its facets in the Thurgau Constance region and is therefore occasionally gloomy and gray. On some days, the fog sits almost stubbornly on the shores of Lake Constance or in river valleys and doesn't let a ray of sunshine through. However, the following tips for escaping the fog will show you where, with a bit of luck, you can catch a glimpse of the sun and enjoy a magnificent view over the white-grey sea of fog.

Thurgau’s highlight – Fischinger Grat

If the sun isn't shining at the highest point in Thurgau, where is it? So off you go to the Fischinger Grat, the highest point in the canton. This is idyllically situated in the tranquil green Tannzapfenland and is reached via - no wonder - the Thurgau Tannzapfenweg trail. On a well-distributed ascent to 991 meters above sea level, sections through wooded areas alternate with high-altitude trails, always accompanied by breathtaking views. Tip: plan to stop for coffee and the daily fresh cake at Fischingen Monastery.

To the Thurgau Pine Cone Trail

From Thurgau to the Hörnli

Another hike that will hopefully - or even almost certainly - lead you out of the Thurgau fog soup is the one to Hörnli, the mountain just across the cantonal border. The start is also in Tannzapfenland, in Fischingen. The pilgrimage trail then continues uphill towards the sun. Hikers cross the cantonal border and the fog line at the same time, so to speak. The reward: sunshine, wonderful panoramic views and the Hörnli mountain inn.

A pilgrimage through Thurgau

From the lake up to the Hudelmoos

When the fog lingers on Lake Constance, sometimes a short climb just a few kilometers from the lake is enough. A particularly beautiful destination for a walk is the Hudelmoos: a protected forest and wetland area, enchanted and mystical, like something out of a fairytale, crisscrossed by root-covered paths. With its unspoiled nature and inviting tranquility, it's worth a stroll at any time of year. Tip: Combine this walk with a visit to Hagenwil Water Castle and its excellent restaurant (a half-hour walk).

To Hudelmoos

Ottenberg: vineyard and sun room

Ottenberg, the sunniest spot in central Thurgau, is located above Weinfelden and is a vineyard that produces excellent wine. This is no surprise given its magnificent south-facing slope. Those who want to climb Ottenberg to find the sun can do so on the Weinfelden Wine Trail. The Stelzenhof Restaurant and the Sunnehalde vineyard are also lovely rest stops, offering local wines and regional menus.

To the Weinfelden Wine Trail

Stählibuck above Frauenfeld

In Frauenfeld, the capital of the canton of Thurgau, the fog can linger stubbornly. The good news is that sometimes just a climb up the local mountain, Stählibuck, is enough. The fog line is then just beyond the last houses of the town, and the sun awaits at the top. Those who want to go even higher can climb the Stählibuck Tower at the top of the hill, one of the oldest steel-framed towers in Switzerland. Numerous barbecue spots or the Stählibuck Restaurant near the tower invite you to take a break.

To Stählibuck

High up on the Nollen

The Nollen is higher than almost anywhere else in the canton of Thurgau . The hill between Bischofszell and Wil invites you up into the sun on foggy days. A barefoot path and the Hotel and Restaurant Nollen are possible destinations in the sunshine, the highlight of the excursion: panoramic views of Lake Constance and the Alps.

To the Hotel & Restaurant Nollen

Wine Trail and Iselisberg

The Thur Valley around Frauenfeld is often foggy. It's a good thing that the Iselisberg rises above it, a sunny wine-growing region that's home to the "Art and Wine on the Iselisberg" wine trail and many wonderful winemakers. The works of art that normally adorn the trail are in their winter quarters from late October to May. However, panels tell the story of winemaking in the region year-round, and you can also pack a backpack with a bottle of wine for the road. A tip for a restaurant at the top, hopefully in the sun: Restaurant Aussicht. The name is a must.

To the Art and Wine Adventure Trail at Iselisberg

Napoleon Tower and Museum

When fog envelops Lake Constance: head up to the Seerücken! Why not take the Napoleon Tour? The icing on the cake is the Napoleon Tower. Hikers here follow in the footsteps of the last Emperor of France, who spent his youth in this region. From Ermatingen, you climb approximately 200 meters up the Seerücken and, if you like, finally climb the 222 steps to the Napoleon Tower. A wonderful view over Lake Constance or the fog is the reward for your efforts. On the way back, hikers pass by the Napoleon Museum, where, at Arenenberg Castle, interested visitors can see how the young nobleman grew up with his mother.

To the Tour Napoleon

Comfortable overnight stay

Don't care about the sun? If you prefer relaxing by the warm fireplace or in the hotel's wellness area instead of chasing the sun, these Thurgau gems are recommended for cold days.

Find comfortable accommodation