Ehemalig Weissenburgbad — 3764 Därstetten, Switzerland

amazing! it’s so cool to see the river and also the gigantic boulders nearby. it makes me realise how scary the mountains are but that’s awesome!!! it got dark a little too quickly which is a shame because i would’ve liked to explore more.

Saya McLeod

A wonderful hike along the former spa, river, steps and the astonishing bridge. Highly recommended!

Sam J.

Nice hiking area... Good pathways.. Historically interesting

Chris Hall

Beautiful

Annette Melhede

I found this place very beautiful and calming. It is also a historically significant place. Here is a brief summary of its history: Origins & Development • The thermal spring above Weissenburg in the Simmental valley was captured by the Bernese authorities in 1604. The first bathhouse was built as an official health resort. • From about 1846 to 1849, the so-called front bath was rebuilt and opened in 1849, alongside the older "rear bath." Together, they offered around 350 beds for visitors from all over Europe. Golden Age as a Luxury Spa Resort • In the 19th century, the Grand Hotel Weissenburgbad developed into a spa resort known throughout Europe, popular with the high nobility and guests from distant lands. • The summer season brought tens of thousands of overnight stays, staffed by 150–200 employees. A private hydroelectric power plant supplied electricity, and there were elevators, a swimming pool, and a tennis court – luxurious amenities for the time. • In 1936, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands and her daughter Juliana took the waters at the spa; there she became engaged to Prince Bernhard – a high point in international celebrity history. Destruction, Reconstruction & Decline • On the night of January 31 to February 1, 1898, the Vorderes Bad (Front Bath) fell victim to a devastating fire – presumably caused by a short circuit or chimney fire. It burned to the ground. • As early as 1899, a new grand hotel was built on the same site and reopened. • The hotel remained in operation until around 1939, after which – especially during the Second World War – it was used as an army facility. It reopened in 1948, this time as a holiday camp. • • In 1963, the facility was finally closed due to financial difficulties. The building fell into disrepair and was destroyed by fire again in 1974. Targeted demolition by the army in 1986 removed almost all remaining structures. • Today, the former site is an information center and rest area with information panels. A public fountain near the Weissenburg train station offers free access to the mineral-rich thermal water.

The Neptun

The ruin is well-preserved, but it is, after all, a ruin. However, the path leading there, and if you continue following the stream, makes for a great hike.

Regina Schüpbach