The “Rond om Tegersche” educational trail is about 4.5 km long and leads through the village of Degersheim and its surroundings. As you walk, you’ll discover stories about the area, with topics ranging from geology and church history to agriculture, the textile industry, railways, trade and associations.
Local history and themed trails
Degersheim was first mentioned in 837 under the name “Tegerasca”. The population originally made a living from livestock farming and grain cultivation. After 1750, the cotton industry developed first, followed later by the embroidery industry. A defining event is also part of the village’s history: a village fire in 1818 destroyed a total of 40 residential buildings, 15 barns and the church. These milestones give the educational trail’s topics—including economic development, agriculture and the textile industry—a concrete historical context.
The Degersheim medicinal herb trail has a different focus. The circular route passes through themed gardens where you can experience the diversity of native plants. If you’re interested in plants and gardens, you’ll find a different focus here than on the educational trail, with its historical and social themes. Route details may change; check the current route status in advance.
Hills, forests and views
Degersheim stretches across gentle hills, forests and fields. A hike along the heights near Degersheim offers views of Lake Constance and the Säntis. The nationally significant Rotmoos raised bog is located in Degersheim, west of Wolfertswil, where restoration work is underway. Alongside routes through the village and its surroundings, the landscape and nature are therefore also options to consider when planning your trip.
A longer option by bike
There are 20 mountain bike tours to choose from in the area around Degersheim. The “Degersheim–Bergli–Degersheim” route starts at the railway station and is 39 km long. It involves 1,134 metres of elevation gain and takes 3 hours and 30 minutes at an average speed of 10 to 12 km/h. This clearly distinguishes it from the educational trail, which is about 4.5 km long: the two routes have different focuses and significantly different distances. If you’re planning the mountain bike tour, it’s a good idea to check the latest route information.
Seasonal activities and culture
In winter, the Degersheim ski lift’s seasonal facilities currently include two drag lifts, each about 600 m long with a vertical drop of 140 m. There is also a free pony lift with a fun park for small children. When there is enough snow, a 17 km cross-country ski trail runs above Degersheim from Wolfensberg to Moos, through landscapes and snow-covered forests.
During the summer season, the Degersheim municipal swimming pool is open daily from 09:00 to 11:00. Opening hours may change, so check the times before your visit. The annual fair is a recurring event: it takes place every year on the first Monday in September and the preceding Sunday. Check the exact dates if you’d like to plan your trip around it.
Dreamfactory also offers a cultural attraction, bringing 250 years of music history to life. Many instruments can be tried out or experienced in action. Exhibits may change over time; if you’re interested, check what’s currently on offer in advance.
Location and connections
Degersheim is in the Wil district, about 16 km west of St. Gallen. The railway station offers connections to St. Gallen and other cities in the region; regional bus routes also connect the municipality with nearby towns. Check the relevant timetables when planning your journey.
Discover more destinations: Wil, Flawil, RossrĂĽti, Zuzwil, Uzwil, Oberuzwil, NiederbĂĽren.
Return to the main travel overview: Wil.
