Themed walk alpine farming

Thematic route

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Tour data

2.34km

1,312 - 1,358m

Distance

34hm

37hm

Ascent

00:40h

Duration

Appenzellerland Tourismus AR

Brief description

The Schwägalp has been used as pasture land for more than a thousand years. The alpine farming theme walk shows the life of the alpine dairymen, their cooperatives and peacefully grazing cattle.

Difficulty

easy

Rating

Technique

Fitness

Landscape

Experience

Starting point

Schwägalp

Route

Schwägalp hamlet

Grand Tour Foto-Spot Säntis Gipfel viewpoint

Restaurant Schwägalp restaurant

Siebenhütten hamlet

0.8 km

more waypoints

Best season

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Description

The work of the alpine dairymen and the structures of the cooperatives have been almost identical for centuries. The alpine farming theme walk bears witness to the rich customs and handicrafts. It conveys the duties and rights of the alpine dairymen, introduces special plants avoided by the cattle and offers an insight into the Spartan buildings in the Schwägalp area. You will also meet one of the oldest domestic animals in Switzerland: the goat.

Directions

Large car park northeast of hotel – Siebenhütten – walk past larger stables with archway on the left – take the gravel path above moor – into the forest – Säntis Hotel

Highest point

1,358 m

Endpoint

Schwägalp

Height profile

Equipment

Trekking or hiking shoes. Jacket depending on the weather.

Tips

This theme trail is particularly beautiful in spring when the first flowers bloom. From around mid-June to mid-August, you can see the cows and curious goats running free on the alp. The barbecue area on the way (point D) invites you to have a barbecue, with the best view of the imposing rock face of the Säntis.

Additional information

https://naturerlebnispark.ch/

https://saentisbahn.ch/

Directions

Schwägalp is located in eastern Switzerland. Arrival via Nesslau or Urnäsch.

Well-cleared roads all year round
from Zurich 1.30h 101km
from Munich 3.15 h 252km
Arrival without motorway vignette possible

Public transportation

By train to Nesslau on the Toggenburg side or Urnäsch on the Appenzell side. The post bus will then take you to Schwägalp. Please note the current timetable: www.sbb.ch/de/

Parking