Egnach brings together orchard country and Lake Constance: the Bireweg trail winds through large orchards and traditional tall-stemmed orchards, while Luxburg lido offers a place to swim by the lake. The municipality lies on the shores of Lake Constance between Arbon and Romanshorn and encompasses farmland, forest and 2.8 kilometres of lakeshore. Intensive fruit growing has preserved its rural character to this day, despite some industrial buildings and residential areas.
Fruit Growing and Local History
Field orchards, which began to appear in the 18th century, earned the area the historical nickname “Mostindien” (“Cider India”). Egnach also has a history of textile production, including linen trading, hand embroidery and machine embroidery. The railway is also part of the municipality’s history. In 1869, Egnach got a railway station on the Romanshorn–Rorschach line; the Lake Constance–Toggenburg Railway line was built in 1910. Today, the Lake Constance–Toggenburg Railway is operated by Südostbahn and serves stations in Neukirch, Steinebrunn and Winden.
On Foot Through the Orchard Country
The Bireweg trail runs for just under eight kilometres from the former Egnach cider press through large orchards and traditional tall-stemmed orchards to Winden railway station. At ten stops along the trail, a digital guide in the “CubeTrail” app explains the village’s history, fruit growing and points of tourist interest. The trail is accessible every day, at any time. The app can be downloaded free of charge from the Apple App Store and for Android. As access details and digital availability may change, check the latest information before your visit.
Swimming at Lake Constance
Luxburg lido is a freely accessible swimming spot on Lake Constance. Facilities include a swimming raft, changing cabins, showers, a playground, table tennis tables, barbecue areas and a kiosk. A spacious sunbathing lawn completes the swimming area. Unlike the Bireweg, the focus here is on swimming and relaxing. Seasonal operating details and individual facilities may change; check the latest information before your visit.
Luxburg Castle and Churches
Luxburg Castle has protected status in force and is classified as particularly valuable. It was built at the end of the 14th century as a residence for the Heinzel von Tegelstein family; Emperor Frederick III granted it a charter of privileges. A temporary summer bistro currently offers visitors a chance to experience the castle. If you plan to visit the bistro during your stay, check the latest opening information, as its operation and opening arrangements may change.
The history of the churches includes two distinct sites. The old Saint Gallus Chapel once served as the parish church of Steinebrunn. Its small round-arched window in the choir’s front wall dates from the 13th century; it was discovered and uncovered during renovation work in 1964/65. This is distinct from the parish church of Saint Gallus and Otmar in Steinebrunn, which stands on Winzelnberg and is visible from afar.
Discover more destinations: Winden, Romanshorn, Horn, Uttwil, Arbon, Kesswil, Sommeri, Amriswil.
Back to the main travel overview: Arbon.
