Wilen: Pond Landscape and Farm Life

Wilen (Gottshaus) is a locality in the municipality of Hauptwil-Gottshaus in the canton of Thurgau. When choosing where to stay, the main features are the pond landscape with its fen, the history of hydropower and the attractions at Frohburg. There is also a circular walk, an industrial heritage trail and leisure activities at the ponds. Depending on whether you are interested in the landscape, agriculture or industrial heritage, you can focus your plans in different ways.

Pond Landscape and History

The five ponds were artificially created in the 15th century by the Pelagius Abbey in Bischofszell for fish farming. The chain of ponds between Hauptwil and Wilen later provided the conditions for harnessing hydropower, and thus for industrialisation in Hauptwil. The history of water use is closely linked to the development of Hauptwil; however, the ponds themselves date back further and were originally used for fish farming.

The fen in Wilen is part of the pond landscape and is of supraregional and national importance. Fishing in the five ponds is restricted to members of the Hauptwil Sport Fishing Club and people authorised to do so by private owners. So, if you are interested in the ponds, distinguish between enjoying the landscape and the explicitly restricted right to fish.

Nature and Frohburg Farm

At Frohburg, a 200-metre-long natural hedge with various shrubs and rose plants provides a habitat for numerous animal species. The 18-hectare farm is primarily devoted to deer breeding; agricultural activities may change. In suitable weather and with good visibility, Frohburg offers a 360-degree panoramic view. The view is therefore a weather-dependent feature of the area, while the farm’s size and focus on deer breeding provide separate information about local agriculture.

Frohburg is located at Frohburg 3, 9225 Wilen (Gottshaus). Organic products are available for direct sale from the farm, including meat, honey, eggs, fruit, spirits and cider. The offer brings agricultural produce together with a specific location in Wilen; check operational details before your trip.

Activities and Getting Around

For children, Frohburg offers an accompanied ride in a mini carriage to the Gottshaus pond and back through the forest. The ride takes about an hour. Frohburg also offers carriage rides through Thurgau.

An easy circular walk of 6.07 kilometres starts and ends in Wilen (Gottshaus). Since 1995, the Hauptwil-Bischofszell Industrial Heritage Trail has led through idyllic scenery and past contemporary buildings. There are nine information boards along the trail. The walk is described by its distance and difficulty, while the industrial heritage trail has its own historical focus, conveyed through its boards and connection to the buildings.

There is a public fire pit between Gwandweiher and Horbacherweiher. At Hauptwiler Weiher, there is an official outdoor swimming pool operated by the political municipality. Both facilities are located by specific ponds; the fire pit and swimming pool offer different ways to spend time by the water.

Farm Holidays

The Störshirten-Hof in 9225 Wilen (Gottshaus) offers farm holidays. If this type of accommodation is an option for you, check availability and operational details before your trip. This lets you include the specific farm offer in your plans, while the pond landscape, walk and industrial heritage trail cater to other interests during your stay in Wilen.

For the broader travel overview: Hauptwil-Gottshaus.