Hohensax Castle

Hohensax Castle is a medieval fortress ruin located at 750 meters elevation in Sennwald, where gray stone wall fragments and a damaged tower remain standing among grass and low brush. The remains are modest in scale but clearly show where a defensive structure once stood and how it was organized.

The castle was built around 1200 by the barons of Sax to control the surrounding territory. In 1446, forces from Appenzell captured and destroyed it, after which it was never rebuilt.

The ruins reflect how medieval lords once controlled the valley below, and visitors who make the climb experience a place that feels genuinely untouched by time. The quiet surroundings and lack of modern interference give the site a sense of stepping into the distant past.

Marked hiking trails approach the site from different directions and are accessible year-round at no charge. Plan for roughly one to two hours depending on the route you choose and your walking pace.

The site features a designated grilling area where visitors can sit by a fire and look out toward several mountain peaks at once. This practical feature lets people enjoy the ruins while cooking food and taking in the view.

Location: canton St. Gallen

Location: Sennwald

Inception: 1200

Address: Sax

GPS coordinates: 47.23030,9.44361

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27