Traditional and rustic Switzerland
The two halves of the canton of Appenzell, Appenzell Innerrhoden and Appenzell Ausserrhoden, captivate visitors by combining tradition and folksy character. Located at the foot of the Alpstein Massif, which are the "most beautiful mountains in the world" according to geologist Albert Heim (1849-1937), the two regions celebrate centuries-old customs and a passion for local art and culture. The Appenzellerland is the ideal starting point for adventures in nature. The mountains of Hoher Kasten, Säntis, Staubern, Alp Sigel, Ebenalp and Kronberg are the perfect place to take an excursion, offering activities ranging from paragliding and hiking to culinary delights. Thanks to its northern "outpost location", the Alpstein, a subgroup of the Appenzell Alps, has an imposing presence and is only 30 kilometres away from the beautiful Lake Constance.
World-famous companies such as Goba, the Appenzeller cheese and beverage manufacturer, are also based in the Appenzellerland. The Eastern Swiss metropolis of St.Gallen is conveniently located just a few minutes away by car or the Appenzell railway. Urban flair combined with the beauty and diversity of nature make the region a unique getaway and holiday destination.
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in the Appenzellerland.
Breathtaking panorama from the Alpstein
The hiking region of Eastern Switzerland
The Alpstein, a subgroup of the Appenzell Alps, is extremely popular with hikers and holidaymakers. With its three mountain lakes and three mountain ranges, the small Alpstein region is highly diverse and scenic. Depending on the season and location, the flora and fauna is uniquely magnificent. With a bit of luck, you’ll see native wild animals like the ibex and golden eagle. Hiking holidays are a worthwhile endeavour in the Alpstein. Nature lovers can choose from a very well-developed network of endless hiking trails – from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes. In addition, the homey and traditional mountain inns along the trails offer excellent food, accommodation and entertainment.
Diverse routes and tours with a view
Unique tours for hiking enthusiasts
The Königstour, or Royal Tour, which criss-crosses the Alpstein, a sub-group of the Appenzell Alps, covers 84 kilometres and reaches a height of 5,166 metres. The Königstour includes well-known attractions and insider tips in the scenic region of the Alpstein. The original trail is suitable not just for ambitious runners, but also for more leisurely walkers. Many family-run alpine inns offer food and drink and overnight accommodation along on the way. The traditional inns score high marks in hospitality and charm. You can plan your own tailor-made route, skipping some stages or bypassing them altogether with a ride on one of the six impressive mountain railways.
Fresh mountain air on the Säntis with a panoramic view of Lake Constance
The Säntis mountain peak offers a wonderful opportunity to escape from the misty lowlands into the glittering sun high above the valley. The Säntis is the landmark of the Lake Constance region. In 1882, the meteorological commission of the Swiss Society of Natural Sciences built a weather station atop this peak. At that time, one of the rooms of the alpine inn served as a telegraph office. The world's largest Swiss flag is flown on the Säntis on Swiss National Day and can be seen from as far away as Lake Constance.