The Appenzell region offers numerous walking routes of varying difficulty levels. This hike from Ebenalp to Seealpsee and ending at Wasserauen has panoramic vistas, crystal clear lake and vivid green meadows filled with wildflowers. Ebenalp is also home to the most instagrammed mountain restaurant, the Wildkirchli. The starting point is Berggasthaus Ebenalp, follow the path to “Wildkirchli”, literally “wild church”. The Swiss are very fond of words ending with “li”, the most famous one being, “Chuchichäschtli”. Contemplate on this nugget of information at the restaurant and enjoy the fantastic view, with Säntis visible in the distance. This short hike is also a very good option for folks that don’t want to hike but want to have a Swiss Alps experience.

To continue the trip, follow the path that leads down to Seealpsee. It is steep in places so be careful and grab the safety ropes for stability. The route is easy to walk on but gets very busy during summer weekends, so be careful and pay attention while walking. Soon the path leads to a scenic chapel called “Bruderklausenkapelle”. Take a breather and admire the turquoise waters of the Seealpsee. Listen to the cow bells and on a lucky day, Alphorn blowers while descending towards the lake. There are many options to go near the lake and enjoy the cold water. Continue along the shore and head to Wasserauen to end this most lovely of all Swiss hikes.

Wasserauen is the starting point for this hike.

By Car: There are many parking places available near the cable car station. Follow the instructions from parking handlers on busy summer days.

By Train:  You can reach here by taking train number S23 from Appenzell station. It take 12 minutes.

https://www.ebenalp.ch

https://www.appenzell.ch/en/alpstein/cableways/wasserauen-ebenalp-cableway.html

https://gasthaus-ebenalp.ch/

https://www.bodensee.eu/en/what-to-do/map-of-lake-constance/wasserauen-ebenalp-cable-car_poi534

Sturdy shoes and walking sticks are recommened. Do not be surprised to see folks in sneakers. Carry water and a light snack. It can get really hot in summer.