Highlight • Mountain Hut
Sellamatt Mountain Inn
Hiking
4.7
(321)
Snowshoeing
5.0
(18)
Cross-country skiing
5.0
(1)
Berggasthaus Sellamatt is a welcoming mountain guesthouse nestled on the picturesque Alp Sellamatt, at an elevation of 1,390 meters (4,560 feet) above sea level. Located in the upper Toggenburg region of the Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, this popular destination sits within the municipality of Wildhaus-Alt St. Johann. It offers stunning panoramic views of the majestic Churfirsten and Alpstein mountain ranges, including the iconic Säntis massif, making it a prime viewpoint in the Swiss Alps.
Visitors consistently praise the warm hospitality and delicious, hearty cuisine offered at Berggasthaus Sellamatt. Many highlight the convenience of its location right next to the mountain station of the Alt St. Johann-Sellamatt cable car, making it easily accessible for families and those seeking a comfortable alpine experience. The unique mountain chapel Sellamatt, built in 2002, also adds a special charm, often hosting events and providing a tranquil spot for reflection.
Access to the Berggasthaus Sellamatt hut is primarily via the Alt St. Johann-Sellamatt combined cable car, which provides a quick six-minute ride from Alt St. Johann. During summer months (April to November), Alp Sellamatt can also be reached by a toll road from Unterwasser, offering an alternative for those traveling by car. However, in winter (December to March), car access is not possible, so planning your journey around the cable car schedule is essential. The guesthouse is wheelchair accessible and features a lift, ensuring comfort for all guests.
Berggasthaus Sellamatt is a year-round destination, offering diverse activities depending on the season. Summer is ideal for hiking, with the guesthouse serving as a perfect starting point for trails like the Toggenburg Höhenweg, the family-friendly Klangweg (Sound Trail), and the Sagenweg (Legend Trail). For those interested in winter hiking Berggasthaus Sellamatt, the area transforms into a snowy paradise, with direct access to ski slopes, cross-country ski trails, and snowshoe paths within the Chäserrugg – Unterwasser/Alt St. Johann ski resort.
The Lötscher family has managed this renowned mountain hotel for over 60 years, with three generations living and working under one roof. Originally known as the Churfirsten Mountain Inn, the guesthouse was acquired by Margaretha Lötscher-Jöhl in 1953. Her granddaughter, Christiana, now continues the family tradition, ensuring the culinary well-being of both hotel guests and day-trippers with local dishes and daily specials. This deep-rooted family history contributes to the authentic and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond the guesthouse itself, the surrounding Alp Sellamatt area is rich with mystical natural landscapes, including caves that, according to local folklore, were once home to the "Wildmannli." Hikers often enjoy the serene environment and the chance to explore these unique features. The stunning views of the Churfirsten and Alpstein mountains from the terrace are a highlight for many, providing a perfect backdrop for a meal or a relaxing break.
Whether you're planning a leisurely alp sellamatt wanderung, a challenging winter hike, or simply seeking a tranquil escape with breathtaking views, the area around Berggasthaus Sellamatt offers a wealth of options. To discover the best hikes near Berggasthaus Sellamatt and plan your adventure, explore the various routes available on komoot, which cater to all levels of experience, from family friendly hikes to more demanding circular walks.
Tips
August 17, 2025
Hiking
For more than 60 years, the Lötscher family has run the renowned mountain hotel on Alp Sellamatt. Three generations live and work under one …
•February 6, 2022
Snowshoeing
The Lötscher family has been running the well-known mountain hotel on Alp Sellamatt for more than 60 years. Three generations live and work under …
•
September 6, 2018
Hiking
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Sellamatt Mountain Inn
4.8
(66)
255
hikers
9.48km
03:00
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(18)
123
hikers
11.0km
05:10
800m
800m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(14)
125
hikers
8.66km
02:43
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,440 m
Weather
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Thursday 18 June
27°C
17°C
75 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Berggasthaus Sellamatt accessible for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs?
Yes, Berggasthaus Sellamatt is designed to be accessible. It is wheelchair accessible and features a lift, ensuring that all guests can comfortably enjoy the facilities and stunning views.
Are dogs allowed at Berggasthaus Sellamatt or on nearby trails?
While the guesthouse itself is generally welcoming, it's always best to confirm directly with Berggasthaus Sellamatt regarding specific policies for dogs inside the restaurant or overnight stays. Many trails in the area, such as the Klangweg, are popular with families and hikers, and well-behaved dogs on a leash are typically permitted on most public hiking paths.
What are the parking options for Berggasthaus Sellamatt, especially during peak season?
During summer (April to November), Alp Sellamatt can be reached via a toll road from Unterwasser, where parking is available. However, parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially on busy weekends. In winter (December to March), car access is not possible, so you would park in Alt St. Johann and take the cable car up.
What are some recommended beginner-friendly hikes or circular walks starting from Berggasthaus Sellamatt?
Berggasthaus Sellamatt is an excellent starting point for various hikes. For beginners and families, the Klangweg (Sound Trail) is highly recommended. It's a family-friendly theme trail with interactive sound installations. Many circular walks are also available, offering diverse scenery without extreme difficulty. You can find detailed routes and their difficulty levels on komoot.
How long does it take to hike to Berggasthaus Sellamatt from the valley?
While the cable car from Alt St. Johann provides a quick 6-minute ride, hiking times from the valley vary significantly based on your starting point and fitness level. A popular ascent from Alt St. Johann to Alp Sellamatt typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a moderate elevation gain. Always check specific route details for accurate timings.
What kind of accommodation does Berggasthaus Sellamatt offer for overnight stays?
Berggasthaus Sellamatt offers a range of accommodation options to suit different needs. You can choose from comfortable hotel rooms with private facilities or more practical group accommodations (matratzenlager), with a total capacity for up to 150 people across 17 rooms.
Are there any unique landmarks or hidden trails to explore near Berggasthaus Sellamatt?
Beyond the guesthouse, a distinctive landmark is the free-standing mountain chapel Sellamatt, built in 2002. The surrounding area is also rich with mystical natural landscapes, including caves that, according to local folklore, were once home to the 'Wildmannli.' Exploring these features can lead to discovering less-trafficked paths.
What are the public transport options to reach Alt St. Johann for the cable car to Sellamatt?
Alt St. Johann is well-connected by public transport within Switzerland. You can typically reach it by bus from larger train stations in the region, such as Nesslau-Neu St. Johann or Buchs SG. Check the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) website for the most current schedules and connections to Alt St. Johann, where the cable car station is located.
What is the history of Berggasthaus Sellamatt and the family who runs it?
The guesthouse, originally known as the Churfirsten Mountain Inn, was built in the 1940s. The Lötscher family has been running it for over 60 years, with three generations living and working there. Margaretha Lötscher-Jöhl acquired the business in 1953, and her granddaughter, Christiana, now continues the family tradition, ensuring warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine.
What are the dining options available at Berggasthaus Sellamatt?
Berggasthaus Sellamatt features a serviced restaurant with a terrace offering stunning views of the Säntis. In winter, there's also a newly designed self-service restaurant with a snow bar. The cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful local dishes, daily specials, snacks, and desserts, catering to both hotel guests and day-trippers.
Is Berggasthaus Sellamatt a good destination for winter hiking or snowshoeing?
Absolutely. In winter, Berggasthaus Sellamatt transforms into a snowy paradise. It offers direct access to well-maintained winter hiking paths and snowshoe trails, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation amidst untouched nature. The Chäserrugg ski area also offers 50 km of slopes and ski routes directly accessible from the guesthouse.