To Äscher and through the Wildkirchli Caves
On this hike, you can enjoy a delicious meal in the famous Berggasthaus Äscher (mountain inn). Furthermore, you will be able to walk through the spectacular Wildkirchli Caves. Finish off your hike by taking the cable car back to the valley.
After passing St. Martin's Church in Schwende the route heads towards Eugst in the west. From here a wide trail leads to Alp Bommen and then to Gartenwald. This path is used to ski down from the Ebenalp in winter. At the branching of the path take the left fork. Turn around and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of Kamor, Hoher Kasten and Alp Sigel. Towards the end, you will be able to see the Berggasthaus Äscher that clings to the foot of the vertical cliff face of Ebenalp. Take a well-deserved rest and treat yourself to a delicious plate of rösti.
After Äscher the route continues to the Wildkirchli caves. The first cave is the so-called Altar Cave, in front of which a tiny 19th-century wooden bell tower stands. Thanks to prehistoric findings dating back to the Stone Age the Wildkirchli Caves have become world-famous. Skeletons of cave bears and stone tools are evidence that hunters lived here in prehistoric times. Continue through the caves until you reach the top. Take your time to enjoy the impressive panoramic views on the plateau of Ebenalp before taking the cable car back down to the valley.
Places along the route
Schwende – Triebern – Alp Bommen – Äscher – Wildkirchli – Ebenalp – Wasserauen (Cable car)
Contact
Appenzellerland Tourismus AIHauptgasse 4, 9050 Appenzell
Phone +41 71 788 96 41 , Fax +41 71 788 96 49
info@appenzell.ch
www.appenzell.ch