Worth the hike: dining at breathtaking heights at Berghaus Ӓescher
Berggasthaus Äescher appears to be suspended from the side of the mountain.
Appenzellerland has nearly 750 miles of marked mountain and valley trails. Wear your hiking gear and take the cableway up from Wasserauen to the Ebenalp.
cable car to Gasthaus Aescher
There is a beautiful alpine garden near the Berggasthaus Ebenalp.
alpine flowers, Ebenalp
And, oh, what a view!
Rocky paths along steep rock cliffs lead to a prehistoric cave, a hermit’s dwelling, and a cave chapel, Wildkirchli, inhabited, at different times, by giant cave bears and hermits.
pehistoric cave en route to Gasthaus Äescher
hermit’s dwelling en route to Gasthaue Äescher
The mountain forms the back wall of the Berggasthaus Ӓescher, a restaurant and dormitory that can accommodate 45 guests. The carved wood menu includes hearty meat and rōsti (shredded potatoes with cheese) dishes.
venison luncheon, Gasthaus Äescher
The experience goes far beyond the meal.
Hikers can enjoy simple mountain chalets that offer food and lodging. It’s a chance to meet farmers and sample local specialties. For a view without the trek there’s easier access from Schwägalp’s cable car to Appenzell’s signature mountain, Säntis, at 8200’ the area’s highest peak.
Walk down and stop at some mountain huts for some cheese and other dairy products.
mountain hut
Be sure to check weather conditions before heading out. Trails can be closed due to inclement weather.