Gübsensee, body of water
Gübsensee is a small reservoir in the St. Gallen region, held in place by a dam and surrounded by fields and forests. Its calm water reflects the sky, and simple paths circle the shore, creating peaceful spots for walking and sitting.
The dams at Gübsensee were built between 1898 and 1900 as part of one of Switzerland's earliest hydroelectric projects. The power station has generated electricity for over 100 years and continues to supply renewable energy to the region today.
The name Gübsensee reflects the local heritage of the St. Gallen region and is part of the community's connection to the landscape. Locals use this spot as a place to step away from daily routines and observe nature throughout the year.
From St. Gallen railway station, take the bus to Winkeln, then a short eight-minute walk leads to the shore. Since there are no shops or cafes at the lake, bring your own water and snacks if you plan to stay longer.
The Kraftwerk Kubel power station was one of Switzerland's earliest hydroelectric facilities, using innovative techniques to convert water into electricity. Visitors can see the original turbines and pipes that have been generating power from the water for over 100 years.
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