The pond landscape, Hauptwil Castle and the historic workers’ houses reveal different sides of the village. Hauptwil is a locality in the canton of Thurgau, southeast of Bischofszell, and belongs to the political municipality of Hauptwil-Gottshaus. Visitors interested in nature, garden history and architectural heritage will find several specific subjects to explore—from the nature reserve and the castle to industrial history.
Pond landscape and swimming
The pond landscape of Hauptwil is now a nature reserve and provides a habitat for many rare animal and plant species. Another specific place to visit is the official public swimming area at Hauptwil Pond, operated by the political municipality. The swimming area adds a leisure option to the nature experience. Check the municipality’s current information before your visit, as operating arrangements may change.
From carp ponds to industrial history
Around 1430, the collegiate chapter of St. Pelagius in Bischofszell had several carp ponds built between Hauptwil and Wilen. They later enabled the use of water power and, in turn, the industrialisation of Hauptwil. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the textile merchant Gonzenbach family shaped the development of the village; Hauptwil changed from a farming village into a manufacturing settlement characterised by linen production.
The Hauptwil-Bischofszell industrial heritage trail runs from Hauptwil to Bischofszell. Since 1995, information boards and leaflets have documented the two Upper Thurgau localities’ approximately 300-year industrial history. The trail also provides a way to view Hauptwil’s development in the context of Bischofszell.
Castle, gardens and historic buildings
Hauptwil Castle was built between 1664 and 1665; the main entrance door bears the year 1665. The gardens include a Baroque garden, a Baroque herb bed, a water lily pond, a courtyard and a wildflower meadow orchard to the east of the complex. Hauptwil Castle is not open to the public, but the castle and its grounds can be explored several times a year. Check the current dates before planning a visit.
Langbau West is considered the oldest known example of workers’ housing in Switzerland. It is part of a group of three workers’ row houses: Langbau, Kurzbau and Gelbbau. In Hauptwil’s historic centre, together they form an elongated triangle and are part of the manufacturing complex of the former Obere Rotfarb.
The Reformed Church of Hauptwil also brings together different periods: Emil Kessler built it in 1886/88 as a brick building. Inside is a magnificently carved organ case from around 1700, originally from the castle chapel and moved to the church in 1886. The church building and organ case thus represent two clearly distinct periods of architecture and art.
Hiking and finding accommodation
For a longer outdoor activity, consider the circular hike to Waldschenke. It passes through the pond landscape to Hauptwil, covers 9.2 km and takes 2 hours and 25 minutes. The route can be hiked year-round; seasonal conditions may affect hiking conditions. Its clearly stated distance and duration make it easy to distinguish the hike from the village’s historical attractions.
When looking for a holiday apartment, you can first decide whether nature, architectural history or the circular hike will shape your stay. For a specific property, check its location and current availability.
Discover more destinations: Wilen, Erlen, Bischofszell, Zihlschlacht-Sitterdorf, Kradolf-Schönenberg.
Return to the main travel overview: Bischofszell.
