Hike to Quinten

It's Pentecost 2018, and the urge to explore the world further. The cleanest lake in Switzerland for years and the extraordinary Good April weather in May invites me to go on a beautiful hike to Quinten. Quinten is a small wine-growing village that is only accessible by boat or on foot. It lies between Walenstadt and Weesen, directly on the shore of Walensee. Because of the mild temperatures, you can find not only wine here, but also exotic fruits like kiwis or figs. Quinten has about 50 inhabitants, and I've been there several times. However, each time I arrived by boat. I've often heard how beautiful the hike from Walenstadt is. Of course, one must see that for oneself.

Content Hide
1 Hike to Quinten
2 Conclusion
3 Information about the tour

Hike to Quinten

Lace up your hiking boots and head to Walenstadt. There are numerous parking lots there, especially in the summer months when the fields can also be used for parking. From here, keep to the right and walk along the lake until you're past the kiosk. This is your last chance to get some provisions.

From now on, it's a turn to the right and uphill. The small forest road takes you from 419 m above sea level to 833 m and a small village called Engen. However, this consists of only a few houses. This is also already the highest point of the hike. On the way up, you always have a great view of the Walensee lake and the mountains opposite. We are directly below the mighty Churfirsten range, and from Engen, it's more or less straight ahead to Garadur.

It's hard to find a little spot in the shade here today. The weather is great, and since it's Pentecost, there are also quite a few people around. You don't notice it so much on the path itself, but the shady spots are almost all taken. All along the 10 km! *lol*

It's not that bad, of course. I also find my own little spot. Because right after the farm, it goes downhill again. From here, it's still a good 1.5 hours to Quinten. The next fallen tree is mine and I take a leisurely break, surrounded by 1000 ticks! Oh dear! They are really everywhere here. But okay, I'll finish eating comfortably, check everything, shake off the little creatures, and off I go again.

After about 30 minutes, the descent is completed and you are back at sea level, not to be confused with Sea Level 🙂

From here, it's a gentle up and down, right along the lake to Quinten. You'll pass a few impressive waterfalls. However, these are likely only visible in spring, as everything is a bit drier in summer.

After a good 3 hours, I arrived in Quinten-Au, the first stop for the ferry. I had to sprint the last 300 meters and ultimately was able to board the ferry as the last passenger. *Lucky me*

Conclusion

A very enjoyable hike that isn't particularly difficult. The Walensee and Churfirsten mountains provide breathtaking views and make this hike to Quinten a great experience.

Information about the tour

  • Directions Walenstadt, Walenstadt Exit
  • Walking distance 9.89 kilometers
  • Hiking time 2:56 h (including taking photos and breaks)
  • Elevation gain: 540 m
  • Meters of descent: 540 m
  • Difficulty level: Light
  • Requirements Sturdy footwear

Leave a Comment