Appenzell
The village of Appenzell and the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden are situated in a singularly beautiful landscape of rolling hills. The region is known for rural customs and traditions such as the ceremonial descent of the cattle in autumn and cultural events such as folk music and rustic dances, as well as hiking tours in the Alpstein region.

Tourist Office Appenzellerland
Hauptgasse 4, 9050 Appenzell, Tel. 071 788 9641

Landsgemeindeplatz
On the historical Landsgemeindeplatz (town square) the annual „Landsgemeinde“ is held (cantonal assembly). The Landsgemeinde is one of the oldest forms of direct democracy. The first historically documented assembly took place in 1924. All cantonal elections and parliamentary business are publicly debated here and voting is by a public show of hands.

Löwen-Drogerie (pharmacy)
Built in 1560, the facade of the Löwen-Drogerie is one of the most beautiful in Appenzell. Johannes Hubentobler painted medicinal herbs on the round-arched panels covering the shutters, thus linking the decoration to the purpose of the pharmacy.

Heiligenkreuzkapelle (chapel)
The Heiligkreuzkapelle in the main street was rebuilt after the village was devastated by fire in 1560. The stained glass windows depicting the five sorrowful mysteries of the rosary were designed by Ferdinand Gehr in 1964.

Tafeen (signs)
The distinctive signs (known as Tafeen), which are hung mainly in the centre of the village, are a visual feast. «Tafeen» (which comes from the word for tavern) can be found outside many shops as well as inns and restaurants.

Mountain Excursions
Ebenalp
The Ebenalp is an ideal starting point for many fascinating hikes in the region. For example take the cable car from Wasserauen to Ebenalp in 6 minutes. Up there, hike to the Wildkirchli Höhlen (caves)  and the small chappel. Afterwards a path shows you the way to the Restaurant Aescher, built very close to the mountain face.  

Kronberg
The Kronberg (1663m) is the family mountain in Appenzellerland, offering many attractions both in the summer and the winter. The valley station of the aerial cableway is next to the Jakobsbad Train Station, high up in the Gonton valley.
Mount Kronberg is accessed from Jakobsbad by aerial cableway. From the Kronberg a wonderful hiking tour leads to Appenzell. On the other side, i.e. the Kronberg’s southern face, you will find the Schwägalp, the starting point to Mount Säntis. You have a fantastic view from Kronberg.

Would you like to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of six countries at 2504 m.ü.M (8217 ft)? Then visit the ‘Säntis’, Appenzell’s highest peak. Approx one hour by train and bus from Appenzell, the Schwägalp is the base station of the modern aerial cableway.

Hoher Kasten
Another mountain top that can be conquered by cable car. The summit is easily accessible with a cable car starting at Brülisau, south of Appenzell. A revolving restaurant, offering panoramic views, has been built on the top.

Other Excursions
Follow the manufacture of Appenzeller cheese from the visitors‘ gallery, looking straight down into the 6500 liter cheese vat where the milk is prepared and the cheese harp is drawn through the thickened jelly. A most impressive sight.

Urnäsch
This picturesque village located in the canton Appenzell Ausserrhoden houses the museum "Museum für Appenzeller Brauchtum" (museum for Appenzell customs) whose collection includes reconstructed farmhouse interiors as well as costumes and craft items.

St. Gallen
Take the Appenzeller Bahn (railway) from Appenzell to St. Gallen (the ride takes approx. 45 min.) and visit of the of the most picturesque old towns in Switzerland: many of the houses and buildings being from the 16th and 18th century, sometimes with painted facades, often adorned with wrought-iron signs and carved and painted wooden oriel windows. Walk along the pleasant alleys and browse through the many small and charming shops.