Discover Gossau

Gossau lies west of the city of St. Gallen in the St. Gallen electoral district. Rolling hills, agricultural land and a mix of residential areas shape the town; green spaces, forests and smaller bodies of water are also part of the landscape. The climate is temperate, with warm summers and relatively mild winters. When looking for a hotel in Gossau, it helps to plan your stay around the topics that interest you: local history and buildings, the Bible Garden, the Chläusler market, or biodiversity and species conservation at Walter Zoo.

Local history and buildings

An early reference from 824 names the town “Cozesaua”; at the time, the area was predominantly agricultural. The first parish church on Kirchplatz is documented in 910. St. Andrew’s Church defines the centre of Gossau and serves as a place of worship for Catholics. The town therefore offers a range of historical points of interest: an early name for the town, a church square with a long history, and a church that shapes the present-day centre.

Oberberg Castle can also be placed within several different periods. Its origins date back to the 13th century, but the present-day castle was not built until the mid-16th century. Oberberg Castle is the oldest surviving residential building in Gossau. Keeping these two dates distinct makes clear that the early origins should not be confused with the construction of the present-day castle.

Bible Garden and Henessen Mill

Around 50 of the 130 plants mentioned in the Bible grow in Gossau’s Bible Garden. The garden is open to visitors free of charge. Guided tours are also available if you are interested; it is best to check in advance how to arrange one. You can explore the garden independently or learn more about the subject on a guided tour.

The Henessen Mill complex offers a different glimpse into the past: about half a dozen buildings are arranged around a square. Henessen Mill is also now a well-known restaurant. If you would like to eat there, check the current opening hours in advance. The square and its buildings create an architectural setting, while the restaurant offers another way to enjoy a visit.

Chläusler and Walter Zoo

The Chläusler is the oldest and largest market for goods in Eastern Switzerland, with around 240 stalls. It is held on the second Monday after 15 November; the market is open on Sundays and Mondays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. As the event’s arrangements may vary from year to year, check the date before your trip. The market’s size and regular timing make it a distinct focus when planning a stay in Gossau.

Walter Zoo introduces visitors to the connections between biodiversity and species conservation. This nature-focused attraction complements the historic buildings and the market, so you can plan your stay around what interests you most. Gossau also has good transport links. If a particular connection is important for your journey, check the relevant service for your travel date.

Discover more destinations: Abtwil, St. Gallen, Waldkirch, Eggersriet.

Return to the main travel overview: St. Gallen.