What to Do in Appenzell – The 7 Most Beautiful Places.
Planning a trip to Appenzell and wondering what to do?
Let us show you the region’s most iconic attractions – from Lake Seealpsee and the world-famous Aescher mountain guesthouse to the breathtaking Mount Säntis.
Alpstein Fotograf
discover Appenzell’s most-See photo spots.
Getting to the Most Beautiful Photo Spots in Appenzell.
Arriving from Switzerland or Germany.
Compact, wild, and full of charm — the Appenzell region in Eastern Switzerland may be small, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing.
Within a short distance, you can discover an incredible variety of breathtaking photo spots, many of them reachable on foot.
It’s no wonder so many visitors call Appenzell one of the most beautiful regions in all of Switzerland.
Mountain Railways and Hiking Trails.
If hiking isn’t an option, the Appenzell Railways and numerous mountain cable cars make it easy — and sustainable — to reach even the most remote corners of the region in comfort.
” The Appenzellerland offers you peace and impressive limestone cliffs ”.
The Säntis mountain | Appenzell Excursions
Lake Seealpsee – The Mirror of the Alps.
A Perfect Starting Point for Your Hike.
Lake Seealpsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland — and without a doubt, one of Appenzell’s main attractions.
At 1,143 meters above sea level, it lies idyllically within the Alpstein massif, surrounded by steep rock walls and lush alpine meadows.
It’s also the perfect starting point for hikes — for example to Meglisalp or the world-famous Berggasthaus Äscher.
Two Routes – Steep Road or Shady Forest Path.
A steep paved road leads directly to the lake from the main parking lot in Wasserauen. If you prefer a slower, more scenic route, turn left at Hotel Alpenrose and follow the smaller trail through meadows and forest.
It takes a bit longer, but you’ll pass picturesque alpine cheese dairies and enjoy far better views.
Once you reach Lake Seealpsee, you’ll find the guesthouses Forelle and Seealpsee.
During the alpine summer (July–August), cows graze along the shore and local dairymen sell homemade cheese and yogurt — a true taste of authentic Appenzell.
Photo Tip – Lake Seealpsee
Early in the morning, when the first rays of sunlight touch the peaks behind the lake, the light is absolutely magical. Later in the day, the sun quickly dips behind Mount Säntis, so mornings are best for photos.
The small wooden rowboats along the shore also make great photo subjects — or rent one yourself for CHF 5–7 per 30 minutes to explore the lake from the water.
Äscher Mountain Guesthouse – World-Famous on the Cliff.
National Geographic – A Destination of a Lifetime.
The Äscher Restaurant became world-famous in 2015 when National Geographic featured it on the cover of their book Destinations of a Lifetime.
Since then, it’s been one of the most iconic and photographed spots in all of Appenzell — and for good reason.
Perched dramatically on a cliffside beneath the Ebenalp, the Äscher offers a breathtaking mix of nature, history, and hospitality.
How to Reach the Äscher Restaurant?
The easiest way to reach the Äscher is by taking the Ebenalp cable car.
From the top, a scenic 20-minute walk leads downhill across alpine meadows and through the mystical Wildkirchli Caves — an experience in itself.
Alternatively, you can hike up from Wasserauen via Seealpsee.
Important: don’t go all the way to the lake — turn right at the rock wall just before it to reach the Äscher trail.
Photo Tip – Äscher Restaurant
The best light for photos is in the morning, when the first sunrays turn the cliffs a soft red.
Later in the day, the sun disappears early behind the Alpstein massif.
And while you’re there — don’t miss the famous “Äscher-Zmorge” breakfast. Enjoy homemade jam and freshly baked Gipfeli on the terrace with one of the best views in Switzerland.
A voucher from Äscher also makes a lovely gift for anyone who loves the Alps.
Hoher Kasten – 360° Panoramic View.
The Hoher Kasten – A Mountain with a View.
At 1,794 meters above sea level, the Hoher Kasten is home to the only revolving restaurant in Eastern Switzerland.
Over the course of an hour, the restaurant slowly turns on its axis, revealing a breathtaking 360° panorama of the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance, Lake Sämtis, and the entire Alpstein massif.
How to get there?
The Hoher Kasten cable car from Brülisau takes you to the summit in just eight minutes.
At the top, you’ll find the Alpine Flower Garden and the Europe Circular Trail, both located right next to the station.
If you prefer to hike, you can ascend from Montlinger Schwamm via Kamor.
Depending on the route, plan for 2.5 to 3.5 hours of hiking — with spectacular views of the Rhine Valley and the pre-Alps all along the way.
Photo Tip – Hoher Kasten.
With its 360° panorama, there’s always something worth photographing.
Even when fog drifts in, it creates mystical, almost magical light and atmosphere — perfect for moody mountain shots.
Saxerlücke – KREUZBERGE IN THE MORNING LIGHT.
Appenzell Sights – The Kreuzberge Peaks.
At 1,649 meters above sea level, the Saxerlücke is considered one of the most spectacular sights in Appenzell.
Here, the dramatic Kreuzberge peaks rise like massive stone towers into the sky.
It’s especially breathtaking at dawn, when the first sunlight paints the rocks a warm red while the Rhine Valley below is still asleep.
Getting to the Saxerlücke.
The easiest way to reach the Saxerlücke is by taking the Staubernbahn cable car from Frümsen to Berggasthaus Staubern.
From there, a panoramic trail with no major climbs leads to the gap in about 2–3 hours round trip, offering sweeping views of Lake Fälen and the Alpstein massif.
Appenzell Adventures – For the More Athletic.
If you prefer a more challenging route, start from the valley floor.
One beautiful option begins in Brülisau, leading past Lake Sämtis and Bollenwees up to the Saxerlücke (about three hours to the gap).
From there, you can continue the hike via Berggasthaus Staubern back to your starting point – one of the most scenic circuits in Eastern Switzerland.
Eggli (Steinegg) – Appenzell’s Picture-Perfect Idyll.
Berggasthaus Eggli – The Idyllic Heart of Appenzell.
A winding country road, lush green meadows, and the striking backdrop of the Alpstein and Mount Säntis — that’s the view from the Eggli above Steinegg.
It’s no longer a hidden gem, but it’s still one of the most photogenic spots in Appenzell and one of the easiest to reach.
Simply drive up the narrow, winding road to Restaurant Eggli, located at about 1,200 meters above sea level.
You’ll find plenty of scenic photo opportunities along the way.
Photo Tip – Eggli Steinegg.
Look out for a small yellow barn with a big tree beside it — often with cows grazing in front during summer.
It’s a picture-perfect Appenzell scene.
Since the photo spot is across a meadow, timing matters: fields are usually mowed after Corpus Christi (early June), so before that, you’ll have the best chance of finding blooming flower meadows.
Good to Know.
The parking lot belongs to Restaurant Eggli, so it’s good etiquette to stop in and enjoy something there.
The view from the terrace is spectacular — and you should definitely try the Appenzeller Siedwurst while you’re at it.
Insider tip Appenzell – Schlatt, picturesque village.
An Insider Tip in Appenzell.
If you want to experience all the beauty of Appenzell and skip Schlatt, you’ll be missing out on a true insider secret.
This small village sits on a gentle hill between Appenzell and Teufen, about 15 minutes by car.
Even from a distance, you can spot the distinctive bell tower of St. Joseph’s Church, rising proudly above the rooftops.
Photo Tip – The Village of Schlatt.
Park near the church and follow the trail uphill for about 10 minutes. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panorama: the church framed in the foreground, and the Alpstein massif towering behind it.
It’s especially magical on foggy days, when the church appears to float like an island above a sea of mist.
From Schlatt, you can also start short hikes — for example, to Teufen or Haslen, both known for their charming churches and scenic viewpoints.
Restaurant Bären in Schlatt.
A true insider tip: Restaurant Bären, located right next to the church. It offers delicious local food — and an incredible view.
Definitely stop in if you’re nearby. During the Christmas season, you might even witness one of the rare “Chlausezüg”parades unique to the Appenzell region.
The Säntis – Landmark of Eastern Switzerland.
The Landmark of Eastern Switzerland.
No list of photo spots in Appenzell would be complete without the Säntis (2,502 m) — the unmistakable landmark of the region and a highlight in every season.
From the summit, the view stretches across the Churfirsten range in Toggenburg, over Lake Constance, and as far as Germany, Austria, and deep into the Swiss Alps.
How to Reach the Säntis Summit?
The Säntis cable car takes you from Schwägalp to the summit in just ten minutes. The large gondolas can hold up to 85 people and offer stunning views even during the ride.
For those who prefer to hike, the most direct ascent also begins in Schwägalp.
The most beautiful — though significantly longer — route leads from Wasserauen via Seealpsee, Meglisalp, Rotsteinpass, and Lisengrat to the Säntis summit.
It’s a demanding alpine hike but rewards you with breathtaking views and an unforgettable mountain experience.
Extra Tip & Important Note.
Along the way, consider spending the night at the Berggasthaus Rotsteinpass.
In the early morning or late evening, you’ll often spot ibex descending from the Altmannsattel — a truly special sight.
⚠️ Important: The ascent is alpine terrain — sure-footedness and a good head for heights are essential.
When the rocks are wet, they can become slippery, and in winter, the route is strongly discouraged due to avalanche risk.
Appenzell’s Photo Spots Are Among the Most Beautiful in Switzerland.
Appenzell is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.
Whether it’s Seealpsee, Äscher, or the Saxerlücke, the photo spots in Appenzell are truly among the most beautiful places in Switzerland.
Each has its own charm and offers unforgettable moments for photographers and travelers alike.
Beyond these classics, countless other viewpoints and hidden corners are waiting to be discovered.
So — pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and set out to explore the magic of Appenzell!.
Appenzell sights
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Looking for a Local Swiss Wedding Photographer in Appenzell?
Now that you know our selection of the 7 most beautiful photo spots and sights in Appenzell, maybe you’ve fallen a little in love with this region — just like we did.
If you’re still looking for an experienced local team to plan and photograph your wedding in Appenzell, we’d love to hear from you.
We know the region, the light, and the most beautiful places — from quiet lakes at sunrise to hidden mountain trails above the clouds. We help you plan, organize, and capture your wedding day so you can simply enjoy it.
Let’s talk about your ideas — no pressure, no obligations.
We’d love to get to know you and bring your vision to life, together.
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