Bad Ragaz: A Swiss Spa Retreat
Experience relaxation and rejuvenation in Bad Ragaz, Switzerland's premier wellness destination with thermal springs and Alpine beauty.
Bad Ragaz, located at the foot of the Pizol Alp in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley, has a long-standing tradition as a health spa. Since the discovery of thermal springs in the nearby Tamina Gorge in 1242, the town has drawn visitors seeking the healing properties of its waters. Legend says that Benedictine monks found the springs, which gush forth thermal waters at body temperature, 36.5°C. In 1535, Paracelsus, a doctor and philosopher, testified to the thermal springs' healing powers, marking the beginning of spa tourism in the area. In 1840, the thermal water was piped to the village of Ragaz, making it more accessible and leading to its rise as a renowned health resort. Luxury hotels were constructed to accommodate wealthy travelers, including Russian nobility. Today, Bad Ragaz is a wellness resort with top-class hotels, thermal baths like the Tamina Therme, and golf courses. Visitors can explore the Tamina Gorge, hike in the Pizol region, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Heidiland area. The town also hosts cultural events like the Bad RagARTz sculpture exhibition. Beyond the spas, Bad Ragaz offers a variety of activities, including hiking, cycling, and skiing in the Pizol ski resort. The surrounding area features attractions such as the Heidi Village, vineyards of Bündner Herrschaft, and the Rhine Gorge.
Local tips
- Visit the Tamina Therme for a luxurious spa experience with indoor and outdoor thermal pools.
- Explore the Tamina Gorge and the Old Bad Pfäfers to discover the history of the thermal springs.
- Enjoy hiking or skiing in the nearby Pizol region for panoramic views and alpine trails.
- Take a stroll through the town to admire the art installations of Bad RagARTz, an open-air sculpture exhibition.
- Consider a day trip to the Heidiland region to experience the world of Heidi.
A brief summary to Bad Ragaz
- Bad Ragaz, CH
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Bad Ragaz train station, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz and Tamina Therme are approximately a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, take bus number 456 from the train station towards the Grand Resort, alighting at the 'Tamina Therme' stop. Buses run approximately every hour. A single fare costs around CHF 3.
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Walking
From the Bad Ragaz train station, exit and walk straight ahead, following the signs for the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz or Tamina Therme. The walk is approximately 1 kilometer and should take about 10 minutes. The route is well-marked and relatively flat.
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Taxi
Taxis are available at the Bad Ragaz train station. A taxi ride to the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz or Tamina Therme will take approximately 5 minutes and cost around CHF 15-25.
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Car
If arriving by car, take the A3 motorway (Zurich - Chur) or A13 motorway (St. Gallen - Chur) and exit at Maienfeld. Follow the signs towards Bad Ragaz. The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is located on the left after the roundabout. Underground parking is available at the resort for CHF 32 per night.
Landmarks nearby to Bad Ragaz
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Cristo-Statue
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Pfäfers Abbey
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Rhein Sandbank
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Haus Gutenberg
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Chillerbänkli
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Burg Gutenberg
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Hotel Hofbalzers
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1. Rheinbrücke zwischen Schweiz und Lichtenstein
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Alter Pfarrhof Balzers
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Denkmal Balzers-Triesen - 300 Jahre Liechtenstein
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Lawena Museum
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Zur Alten Eiche
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Camping Mittagspitze AG
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Chapfenstein
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Rope Park in the Forest