A resort for true relaxation

History since 1740

The Hotel Weissbad looks back on a long history that began in 1740 with the construction of the first bathing hut using spring water. Even back then, it was known that the spring water helped alleviate rheumatism, fever, and other ailments.

The most famous kilt-wearer—“Schotten Sepp” (Josef Anton Inauen, 1725–1791)—was born 300 years ago. Every morning, he carried the precious whey from the Mesmeralp to Gais. At his suggestion, his son Karl Jakob introduced whey cures at the Weissbad spa in 1790, thereby becoming the founder of the spa hotel—the origin of today’s Hof Weissbad.

History 1905 to 1994

In 1905, electric lighting was installed in the Kurhaus for the first time, and in 1907, a tennis court was even opened. Even back then, the old Kurhaus was known for its tradition, safety, and excellent cuisine. The surroundings contributed to a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.

By 1954, the spa hotel was outdated and in need of extensive investment. It was put up for sale, but no buyer could be found. Over the years, the spa hotel was sold several times, but it was finally closed down completely in 1982.

History 1994

Demolition work began in 1992, and two years later, on January 5, 1994, the new Hof Weissbad Health and Vacation Hotel reopened under the management of Damaris and Christian Lienhard and Dr. Remo Saxer.

History 1996

The Hof Weissbad quickly became a culinary highlight in the region.

In 1996, the kitchen received 14 Gault-Millau points for the first time—a testament to the high quality of the cuisine. Revenue rose steadily and reached the impressive milestone of 10 million Swiss francs for the first time in 1998.

History 2004

A pivotal moment in the hotel’s culinary history was the construction of the Flickflauder restaurant in 2004.

This new culinary offering contributed to the kitchen being awarded an outstanding 16 Gault-Millau points for the first time in 2008—further proof of the commitment to the highest quality.

History 2012

With a focus on wellness, planning began in 2012 for a new wellness facility on the site of the former tennis court.

In the following years, the hotel was named “Best Employer” several times (2012, 2014, 2016, 2018)—a testament to the outstanding employee satisfaction.

History 2018

In 2018, the Weissbad Lodge and the flower workshop were also opened, while the hotel rooms and the lobby were modernized.

The COVID-19 pandemic also posed challenges for the Hotel Weissbad, which had to close for six weeks in 2020 (with the exception of rehabilitation services). Nevertheless, the hotel looks to the future with optimism: Thomas Rechsteiner took over as Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2021.

History 2023

2023 marks another milestone with the opening of a seminar park and the bath and sauna house.

This year, the hotel celebrated its 30th anniversary—a cause for celebration for all employees and guests.

History 2024

With Susanne and Elias Leu as the new management and hosts, the Resort Hof Weissbad will continue on its path.

No food waste

We rely on the timely delivery of fresh products from our regional suppliers.

Food waste from the kitchen is converted into biogas thanks to the Bio-Trans system. If disposable tableware is used, it is biodegradable. Our menus include information on portion sizes—and you can order more at any time.

This way, we can ensure that no food is wasted.

Swisstainable-certified

Our properties are authorized to carry the “Swisstainable” label from Switzerland Tourism.

With the “Swisstainable” label, Switzerland Tourism has created an award that reflects our industry’s commitment to sustainability.

Hotel Hof Weissbad Level 2 – engaged

Lodge Hof Weissbad Level 1 – committed

Regionality

Around 90 different herbs grow in our expansive herb garden. The garden provides fresh herbs for seasoning and garnishing dishes, flowers and leaves for tea or our iced tea, ointments and compresses, as well as nutritious vegetables and crisp salads.

We use regional and seasonal products whenever possible. This ensures that they are not flown in or grown in fossil-fuel-heated greenhouses. In addition, we treat our guests to authentic, regional culinary experiences.

Precious spring water

One of the greatest natural treasures of the mountains is water. In Glandenstein, also known as “End vo de Wölt” (End of the World), directly behind the hotel, there are two water springs belonging to the hotel.

The spring water is characterized by its exceptional purity, and the Resort Hof Weissbad is supplied by two springs with crystal-clear, fresh water.

Mobility

For stays of three nights or more, our guests receive free travel to and from the resort via public transportation (2nd class) within Switzerland. Additionally, our guests receive the attractive Appenzell Holiday Card free of charge, which includes free use of public transportation in 15 zones around Appenzell.

Of course, charging stations for electric cars and free e-bikes are available.

Reusable bath shoes

Bath shoes generate tons of waste in the hospitality industry every year. For sustainability reasons, we have been offering optional reusable bath shoes since June 1, 2024, to reduce the consumption of disposable bath shoes. We ask our guests to bring their own bath shoes and thank them for their support.

Sustainable bathing shoes are available at the front desk for CHF 8.90.

Talent Development

We are committed to the education and training of young people and offer up to 25 apprenticeship positions in six different professions. We also collaborate with hotel management schools and offer various internships.

Young talent is nurtured. We are proud of our Swiss Skills winners and our members of the National Culinary Team.

Energy

Our electricity consumption is continuously optimized. Appliances and machines shut off automatically when not in use. Electricity consumption is reduced during peak times through energy management. LED lighting is used throughout the building.

The heat for the resort is generated by eight geothermal probes and photovoltaic systems. Today, around 30 percent of the total hot water demand is covered by this geothermal energy. This also justifies the existing outdoor pool, which is heated to 33 degrees. At night, it is covered with a sheet.

In the new bath and sauna house, the warm water is pumped into the basement at night so that the heat can be stored and pumped back into the swimming pool in the morning. This water is heated entirely with renewable energy.