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Aescher - Guesthouse on the Mountain

Experience Swiss hospitality at this iconic cliffside guesthouse, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into Alpine history and culture.

4.7

Berggasthaus Aescher, a historic guesthouse and restaurant built into a cliff face in the Alpstein mountains, has been welcoming visitors since the mid-19th century. Accessible by cable car and a scenic hike, it offers stunning views and a unique dining experience.

A brief summary to Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Local tips

  • Bring warm layers, even in summer, as the guesthouse is located at a high altitude and is not heated.
  • Check the Ebenalp cable car operating times in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider hiking from Wasserauen to Aescher via Seealpsee for a more challenging and scenic route.
  • Reservations are not taken for lunch, so arrive early to secure a table with a view.
  • Bring cash for parking at Wasserauen, as the meters may only accept coins.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Wasserauen train station, walk a short distance to the Ebenalp cable car station. Purchase a round-trip ticket for CHF 34 for adults and CHF 14 for children (ages 6-15). The cable car ride to the Ebenalp mountain station takes about 6 minutes. From there, follow the signs towards Wildkirchli and Aescher, a 15-minute walk downhill through the caves.

  • Walking

    For a more challenging approach, hike from Wasserauen to Aescher via Seealpsee. Follow the signs from Wasserauen to Seealpsee, a 2.8km hike with a 280m ascent, taking approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes. From Seealpsee, continue to Aescher, a 2.2km hike with a 358m ascent, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Be prepared for a steep and narrow mountain path.

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Discover more about Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Berggasthaus Aescher is more than just a restaurant; it's a piece of Swiss history carved into the Alpstein mountains. Since the mid-19th century, this guesthouse has offered respite to farmers and hikers, growing from a simple hermitage to an internationally recognized destination. Its fame skyrocketed after appearing on the cover of National Geographic's 'Destinations of a Lifetime,' drawing visitors eager to witness its unique architecture and breathtaking views. Originally built in 1846, Aescher's design integrates seamlessly with the cliff face, with the rock itself forming the back wall of the structure. The interior provides cozy accommodations, while the restaurant serves traditional Swiss cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The Aescher experience extends beyond the guesthouse, with the nearby Wildkirchli caves offering a glimpse into the region's ancient past, with evidence of Neanderthal habitation and the remains of a former chapel. Visiting Aescher is an adventure. The journey involves a cable car ride from Wasserauen to Ebenalp, followed by a scenic 15-minute walk through the Wildkirchli caves. The guesthouse is open from May to November, offering a chance to experience the Swiss Alps in their full glory.

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