Appenzell Getaway

Hiking in Appenzell and the Alpstein

Appenzell abounds with rich Swiss tradition--and you'll see it in the food, the architecture, and the people. This half-canton of only 66 square miles is packed with more charm and cultural richness than is found in many countries. All this tradition is cradled and protected by the surrounding mountains, the Alpstein range, which would be foreboding were it not for the intricate network of trails and dozens of welcoming guesthouses and mountain hotels dotting the range.

World-class Alps Hiking in Exquisite Mountain Scenery

The Alpstein Range is reminiscent of a mini-Dolomites with limestone spires that seem to plunge their way through the lush alpine meadows. With all this jaw-dropping scenery, you'd think Appenzell would be crowded, but not so. It does a wonderful job of preserving its rural charm peaceful setting. Views stretch out in all directions and on any given day you gaze out over Austria's Tirol, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, and of course other peaks of the Swiss Alps. A trek in the Alpstein range is a classic mountain experience, filled with a superb combination of expertly crafted trails, wonderful accommodations, delectable cuisine, aromatic Appenzeller cheese, and great views along the trail.