One of the most charming regions in Switzerland stretches between Lake Constance and the Alpstein massif: the Appenzellerland. Gentle hills, traditional villages and a culture that is still lived authentically today await you here. The mixture of natural tranquillity, living customs and active hospitality makes the Appenzellerland a destination for all those who long for a break in a special environment. If you want to get an idea in advance, you can use the webcams on the Hoher Kasten to get the latest impressions - a practical aid for planning your day and getting in the mood for the vastness of Appenzellerland.
Appenzell Innerrhoden is located in the north-east of Switzerland and is the country's smallest canton in terms of area and population. With an area of around 173 km² and around 16,000 inhabitants, it borders exclusively on other Swiss cantons: St. Gallen and Appenzell Ausserrhoden. The capital is Appenzell, a place rich in tradition with painted houses and living customs. Geographically, the canton is part of the Alpstein massif, a pre-Alpine region that impresses with the Säntis (2,502 m) as its highest point. Appenzell Innerrhoden is known for its rural idyll, strong folk culture, the Landsgemeinde system and the famous Appenzeller cheese. Hikes, alpine descents and panoramic trails make the region a popular destination for nature and culture lovers.
The village of Appenzell is the cultural center of the region. Colorful house facades, small stores and inns invite you to stroll and linger. Here you will encounter a community that values its roots without standing still. You can also experience living customs in the surrounding area, from the traditional alpine costume to typical music. Museums such as the Appenzell Folklore Museum tell of this, as do seasonal events where guests are very welcome. Anyone looking for a piece of Switzerland away from mass tourism will find just the right amount of originality and openness in Appenzell.
The region is a paradise for anyone who enjoys being active outdoors. Whether a leisurely hike in the valley or a panoramic tour in the Alpstein region - the paths lead through tranquil nature, past alpine pastures, viewpoints and picnic spots. A popular destination is the 1,794 m high excursion mountain Hohe Kasten near Brülisau. From up here you can enjoy a 360° view over six countries, even as far as Lake Constance; you can also experience this incomparable panorama from home with the webcams on the Hohe Kasten. Other highlights in the region include the Seealpsee lake, the Äscher mountain inn and the Appenzeller cheese dairy in Stein.
The Appenzellerland delights visitors with its lively traditions and culinary delights. One of the highlights is the Alpfahrten, where festively decorated cows make their way up to the Alps in summer and back down to the valley in autumn - accompanied by herdsmen in traditional costume and traditional music. On New Year's Eve , groups of people dressed up in elaborate costumes and headdresses parade from house to house to wish the residents a Happy New Year. The Appenzeller Ländlerfest celebrates regional folk music, while the A Cappella Festival presents international singing groups. Culinary del ights from the region include specialties such as spicy Appenzeller cheese, hearty Siedwurst sausage and air-dried Pantli. Sweet treats include the Appenzeller Biber filled with almond paste and the traditional Schlorzifladen with dried pear filling.
The region has plenty of ideas for families : Barefoot trails, nature playgrounds or a ride on the cable car make joint excursions an experience. Those who want to make a spontaneous decision can benefit from a quick weather check with the webcams. This makes travel planning easier and the experience in Appenzellerland even more enjoyable.