Appenzell is one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland. Discover the 10 BEST excursions and hikes to the dreamy places in the region of Appenzell.
The Alpstein in the Appenzell region is one of the most beautiful mountain areas in Switzerland and has so much to offer in a small area. That’s why it was so difficult for us to make a top 10 selection. It will inspire you all the more for new excursions and hikes. We would also like to give you some background information on the origins and history of the Alpstein which is the mountain area of Appenzell and will enchant you with many dream places.
Important to know: Mountain bikes are not allowed in practically all of the mountain area. However, in the city of Appenzell and in the countryside it’s no problem to use the bikes.
Origin of the Alpstein, the mountains of Appenzell
Like the Alps, the Alpstein was formed by the merging of the Eurasian and African continental plates. Before the folding, there was a sea several kilometres wide here (the Tethys). Within several hundred million years, sediments were deposited in the sea. The sedimentary layer around today’s Säntis area was around 600 metres thick. Due to the past, the mountain area is mainly composed of limestone (white-grey rock face), marl (clay and lime mixture) and sandstone (sand, clay, lime mixture). The Säntis area was once much higher millions of years ago, but erosion (e.g. by glaciers and precipitation (as rain mixes with acidic soil and thus dissolves the limestone)) caused erosion. Researchers estimate that the Säntis was once around 5000 metres high.
By the way, the glaciers were still very present around Appenzell 20,000 years ago. It is almost impossible to imagine, but at that time the Rhine glacier stretched from Graubünden to Schaffhausen. About 12,000 years ago, however, most of the glacier retreated from this area. It came to about the height of today’s Fälensee, one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. Today, only 2 mini-glaciers remain in the region on the Säntis. Besides the glacial debris, there are also numerous erratic blocks that can be found on hikes and excursions.
The settlement of the Alpstein
Like practically all of Switzerland, the Alpstein was almost entirely forested up to the timberline. According to tradition, the Alemanni began to settle the area in the 7th and 8th centuries. However, large areas of forest were only cleared in the valleys of the Alpstein between the 10th and 12th centuries. At the beginning, agriculture was still practised, such as grain cultivation, but due to the harsh climate and the poor lime soil, there was a complete switch to livestock farming in the 16th century.
The fact that the cows are actually not suited for such areas can be seen from the footprints in the slopes. This destroys the soil structure and leads to slope erosion. Also, many meadows are still very wet in summer, where cattle herding also destroys the soil. Nevertheless, due to tradition in Appenzell and Switzerland in general, it is almost impossible to imagine the Swiss mountains without cows today.
The 10 BEST excursions and hikes in Appenzell Switzerland
1). Wasserauen – a picture book village in Appenzell
Wasserauen is one of the starting points for hikes and excursions in the Appenzell mountains of the Alpstein, such as the Seealpsee and Ebenalp. From here you can go to Seealpsee or Äscher, for example. But Wasserauen is also perfect for taking brilliant photos. For that, we recommend a leisurely walk from Schwende to Wasserauen. This way you always have the imposing mountain ranges of the Alpstein massif in front of your eyes. Especially the combination with the river, the green meadows and the mountains in the background make the perfect Appenzell photo motif. But this place is also great for recharging your batteries and escaping from everyday life.
For the best pictures, we recommend doing the walk either in the morning before 10 am or in the late afternoon from 5 pm. Then the light is generally very good.
2). Seealpsee, Appenzells most famous mountain lake
Probably the most popular excursion destination in Appenzell is the Seealpsee. It takes about 50 minutes to walk from Wasserauen up to the idyllic mountain lake in the Alpstein. The path is short and leads along a well-maintained road, but it is very steep. Therefore, you should have a certain basic level of fitness. Sticks are also a must for people with knee problems on the descent.
When it is cold, the path can be icy and dangerous. That is why we recommend visiting the lake between May and October. On warm summer days you have to expect a lot of people. But in the morning or evening hours, when the atmosphere is most beautiful anyway, there are few people at the lake. Yes Appenzell is a really beautiful region!
Fireplaces invite you to barbecue and you can also take a dip in the most popular lake of Appenzell. If you want, you can even hire a boat for just 5CHF/30min and enjoy the idyllic lake. You can also enjoy a meal at the Seealpsee mountain inn.
Hikers can continue from Seealpsee to the highest mountain in Alpstein, the Säntis, or to the most beautiful place in the world (Äscher).
3). Meglisalp
If you want to continue hiking from Seealpsee, you can take the hiking trail to Meglisalp. First mentioned in the 10th century, the inn was built in 1861. Like the Äscher mountain inn, the Meglisalp is one of the first inns in Appenzell and in Switzerland. Here the Alpstein was miles ahead.
You can imagine how hard the work was, as almost all the material had to be laboriously hauled up from Wasserauen. One of the strong men, for example, carried 128 kg. Electricity has only been available up here since 2005, but the beauty of nature has remained and allows dreamers and romantics to get their money’s worth.
It is even possible to stay overnight on the Meglisalp. Various double rooms are available for guests. But not only that. A hot tub can also be booked for 150CHF + 20CHF per person for two hours. Or a footbath with Alpstein herbs is available for just 10CHF per person. The Alpstein mountains in the Appenzell are simply the perfect place to forget everydays life and immerse yourself in a dream world.
4). Äscher & Wildkirchli – The highlight in Appenzell Switzerland
According to National Geographic, the Äscher mountain inn is one of the most beautiful places in the world and therefore a true highlight when in Appenzell. The place is easy to reach from Wasserauen. Take the cable car to Ebenalp and walk another 20 minutes to the dream place. Nestled in the massive limestone rock of Ebenalp, the Äscher mountain inn is a jewel in the Alpstein. Thanks to its easy accessibility, it is a perfect destination for families, culture lovers and dreamers.
If you wish, you can have a meal in the restaurant. But please be aware that reservations are not accepted (except for groups of 10 or more and only before 9 am or after 4 pm). The Äscher cooks very traditional Appenzell mountain dishes with local products. If you’re looking for a Rösti, you won’t find one since the new tenant.
Incidentally, hunters already lived here in the Wildkirchli caves about 40,000 years ago. These were also occupied by bears, as bear bones prove.
From Äscher you can also hike to Seealpsee, but the route is very dangerous and people die every year.
5). Ebenalp
Ebenalp is a great excursion destination from Wasserauen, which you can reach in just 6 minutes with the “Ebenalpbahn”. The mountain offers a breathtaking view of the Alpstein and the Appenzellerland. If you like it cosy, you can either stop at the Ebenalp mountain inn or take a 20-minute walk to the most beautiful place in the world, the Äscher-Wildkirchli.
Ingenious hikes can also be started from here. How about a hike to the Schäfler, an impressive Alpstein mountain range?
Either way, Ebenalp in Appenzell, Switzerland is worth the trip.
6). Hoher Kasten – the rotating restaurant in Appenzell, Switzerland
Another highlight in the Alpstein is the Hohe Kasten. The mountain is proud to have a revolving restaurant. So you can enjoy the whole 360-degree panorama over breakfast or lunch. From Brülisau you can reach the mountain in a few minutes by cable car.
If you want, you can of course also hike up. The hike from Hoher Kasten via Sämtisersee back to Brülisau is popular.
In addition to the panoramic view of Lake Sämtis, the lovingly tended alpine garden is particularly impressive. Families and flower enthusiasts can see and learn a lot about the alpine flora in Appenzell Switzerland and the Alpstein area.
7). Lake Sämtisersee
The Alpstein in the canton of Appenzell consists of three large lakes: the Seealpsee, the Fälensee and the Sämtisersee. All three are beautiful and have their own characteristics. Like the Seealpsee, the Sämtisersee can be reached in about 50 minutes. Either via a steep ascent from Brülisau or with a descent from Hoher Kasten.
In summer, the lake offers not only barbecue but also swimming opportunities. But watch out: If it rains little, Lake Sämtis is dried out.
The mountain lake is a great destination for families and hikers who want to immerse themselves in the world of the Alpstein. In addition, cows and Appenzell goats can be seen during the summer months from June to the end of August. Hungry people can stop at the Plattenbödeli mountain inn for refreshments.
8). Fälensee – the most beautiful lake in the region of Appenzell, Switzerland
About an hour after Lake Sämtis comes the next pearl of the Alpstein. Lake Fälensee, which is also known as the Fjord of Switzerland. For me it’s the most beautiful lake of Appenzell and probably even of Switzerland.
The steep rock faces around the lake are so impressive that you could look at them for hours. By the way, you can find the best viewpoint (insider tip) of Lake Fälensee in this article.
If you like, you can treat yourself to a delicious rösti while enjoying the magnificent view at the Berggasthaus Bollenwees. There is also the option of staying in newly renovated rooms and enjoying the idyll almost to yourself.
Another popular option is to hike on to the Saxer Lücke or via the Rotsteinpass to the Säntis. For the hike Brülisau – Fälensee – Sämtisersee we recommend a good 5.5 hours.
9). Säntis – Top of Alpstein & Appenzell
The Säntis is the highest mountain in Alpstein and therefore also offers the most impressive view. Not only can you see the whole mountain massif, but you can enjoy views to Appenzell, Lake Constance and much further. If you like, you can also experience the remains of the Säntis glacier up close.
However you like, you can reach the mountain either by a rigorous hike from various directions or comfortably by the Säntis cable car from Schwägalp. Taking the cable car you pay with a half-fare card 54CHF for a ride up and down the mountain. If you don’t have that card you will pay double the price.
There are not only two restaurants on Säntis, but also two hotels.
10). Älpli near Unterwasser
The last destination is in the neighbor canton of Appenzell called St.Gallen. It can easily be reached with a car drive from Appenzell. One of the starting points is Unterwasser, more precisely the “Älpli”. Guests can park in the large car park for 5CHF per day and start fantastic hikes from there. For example, you can reach the Gräppelensee lake at the foot of the Alpstein in about an hour.
Or very experienced hikers can hike from the Älpli to the Säntis. The Älpli is also a destination for families. The playground and barbecue area with tables and benches also invite the little ones.
Conclusion Top 10 Hikes and excursions around Appenzell Switzerland
The area around the Alpstein is a dream for excursions and hikes. There is probably no other place in Switzerland where you can marvel at the diversity and geological sensations that can be found in such a small area. Whether for families, connoisseurs or extreme hikers. This mountain area in the Appenzell has something to offer for everyone and lets you immerse yourself in a world far away from everyday life.
