4-day Spring Trekking Experience in Appenzell

Walking on a local mountain path, through yellow carpets painted by spring flowers, swimming in a blue mountain lake, and then staying in a local mountain house surrounded by pristine nature.

Meeting locals- and listening to the concert offered by them…wow, you are experiencing the authentic swiss alps. Appenzell region is reputed for the density of hiking paths, still alive local traditions, including yodeling- they say that it originates from this region back to the 17th century.

The relatively low altitude on Appenzell’s trails allows for experiencing stunning hikes in springtime already. The end of May in this region is known for lots of flowers, cows are already outside, and nature is already in full spring mode, approaching the summer.

This event is hosted and led by Ruta Mikulenaite, one of our Touring Monkeys’ partners.

What’s the plan?

This hiking experience is created for those who like to hike and spend long days outside. At the same time, experiencing local life through food, local culture, and places where we will stay.

Appenzell region is known for bed and breakfasts instead of mountain huts. We will stay in 3 different b&bs- each authentic in its own way.

• Hiking with stunning vistas
• Nature Connection Practices
• Swimming in the mountain lakes
• Staying in exclusive, historical & local B&Bs
• Visiting local cheese farm
• Enjoying local diners and drinks – a priority of the B&Bs in this region
• Getting to know spring flowers

About Mountain B&B

You will stay in 3 different B & Bs – each very different, authentic and special.

The First B&B is located next to Sealpsee lake. Here we can enjoy our time at the lake, you can swim, or go rowing- so refreshing after a long day outside.

Second B&B is located under the rock. The Historical Berggasthaus Aescher, is 170-year-old and is well known for its culinary delights. In 2015 National Geographic released a book titled “Destinations of a Lifetime“- Aescher was part of the list.

Berggasthaus Äescher-Wildkirchi can trace its history back to 1846. And the present building was constructed for monks back in 1860.

This place now receives an impressive amount of visitors. We opt for the best and arrive here late afternoon to enjoy tranquil diner and breakfast. One can just sit under the rock and enjoy stunning vistas even without hiking.

Third B&B is located on the other side of the valley next to an impressive wild lake. This took my breath away when i first visited Appnezell!

Technical information

Estimated Hiking Distances & Elevation per day:

Day 1 800+, 600-, 10km
Day 2 850+, 500-, 9km
Day 3 800+ 800-, 8km
Day 4 250+, 800-, 12km

Requirements

To join this event, you should not have extensive fears of heights and vertigo. Our hikes will be relatively easy but some slopes in this region are impressive.

How to get there

If you are traveling from Zurich by public transport, we recommend you take the following:

Thursday 18 May 2023

Zurich HB – 07:39 – 09:42 Wasserauen (via Gossau)

Sunday 21 May 2023

Brülisau 16:14 – 18:21 Zurich HB (via Weissbad and Gossau) – depending on the time the event finishes

Pricing

The price for this event is CHF 670 (sharing in one room with the group)
A 10% non-refundable deposit is due upon booking. We will then contact you and send you the details for the payment of the balance.

Included in price

• 3 night accommodation in local B&Bs including breakfast
• Program preparation: local information, nature connection practices
• Guided and carefully prepared hiking itineraries

Not included in price

• Lunch picnic and dinner (approx 12-15 CHF/ day and diner: 30-50 CHF per diner)
• Drinks during the outing
• Transportation to the start of the outing
• Personal travel to Switzerland & accident insurance

Group size

Min. 4 participants
Max. 8 participants

By signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood, and will adhere to this cancellation policy:

• Up to 1 month before the retreat: 50% refundable
• Up to 2 weeks before the retreat: non-refundable
• If the retreat has to be cancelled by the organiser, 100% of the amount will be reimbursed