Ebenalp & Berggasthaus Aescher
Ebenalp / Aescher-Wildkirchli
A century-old mountain inn tucked beneath a cliff nearly 100 meters high, connected by a cave-and-heritage trail. It is the Alpine scene that has become famous around the world.
Take the train from Appenzell to Wasserauen, then transfer to a cable car for about 8 minutes to reach the Ebenalp alpine pastures at about 1,640 m. Walk downhill for 15 to 20 minutes, passing through Wildkirchli Cave, where prehistoric cave bear bones were discovered, and the small chapel, to reach the Äscher mountain inn, built tight against the limestone cliff. This inn, with more than 170 years of history, became famous after appearing on a magazine cover. Its terrace serves cheese macaroni and beer. Continue downhill for about 1.5 hours to Lake Seealpsee, then walk back to Wasserauen, forming a classic half-day loop. The inn closes in winter. On busy weekends in peak season it is very crowded. The trail has gravel steps, so wear non-slip shoes.
Opening hours
Cable car approx. 08:00–18:00 (extended in summer); mountain hut open approx. May–October
Nearby sights
- Seealpsee
- Appenzell
- Appenzell
- Hoher Kasten
- Säntis
- Säntis
- Appenzeller Schaukäserei
- Drei Weieren & Mühleggbahn