Appenzellerland
Appenzellerland is a tourism region in eastern Switzerland, spanning the two half-cantons of Appenzell Innerrhoden and Appenzell Ausserrhoden. It is a rural, strongly agricultural region of rolling green hills, scattered farmsteads and the dramatic limestone peaks of the Alpstein massif, whose highest summit is the Säntis. The region is not dominated by a lake but by mountains, valleys and clear springs, and it is known for its living customs, folk music and traditional crafts. The small town of Appenzell, capital of Innerrhoden, lies at the centre of the region and is one of the smallest cantonal capitals in Switzerland. Beyond the town, the landscape is largely unspoilt nature with an exceptionally dense network of hiking trails, mountain huts and cable cars. The region is culturally vibrant, with museums, art galleries, churches and chapels, and a strong sense of historical tradition that still shapes everyday life.
Summer activities
In summer the Appenzellerland is a paradise for hikers: the Alpstein offers the densest network of hiking trails in Switzerland, from easy valley walks through the gentle hills to demanding mountain tours, with around 24 mountain inns and six cable cars along the way. The three mountain lakes of the Alpstein, themed trails such as a barefoot path, and guided walks are highlights. Cyclists and mountain bikers find official routes through the rolling countryside, while climbers, paragliders and anglers are also catered for. Families enjoy the Kronberg bob run, a zipline park, playgrounds, the open-air and indoor pools of Appenzell and a puzzle trail through the town.
Winter activities
In winter the Appenzellerland offers a varied programme of snow sports. The family ski area Ebenalp-Horn is reached by cable car, while numerous smaller ski lifts, night skiing at the Horn and ski schools cater to children and beginners. Cross-country skiers find groomed trails of various lengths through forests, meadows and moors, and there are around twelve marked snowshoe routes. Winter hiking trails, toboggan runs including the longest sledding run in eastern Switzerland on the Kronberg, and natural ice rinks round off the offer.
Culture and entertainment
The Appenzellerland is a region where customs and traditions are still actively lived, from the alpine drives and the Landsgemeinde open-air assembly to folk music, traditional costumes and the Innerrhoden dialect. Appenzell folk music, with its typical quintet of violins, cello, hammered dulcimer and bass, is cultivated at the Roothuus centre for folk music in Gonten. The town of Appenzell offers a lively cultural scene with museums, art galleries and a rich tradition of handicrafts, while numerous churches and chapels dot the landscape. A varied programme of concerts, festivals and guided tours runs throughout the year.
