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Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp: A Swiss Cheese Experience

Experience traditional Swiss cheesemaking at the foot of the Säntis massif. Taste local flavors and enjoy stunning Alpine views.

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Nestled at the foot of the Säntis massif, the Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp offers an immersive experience into the world of Swiss cheesemaking. Watch cheesemakers craft traditional cheeses and sample local products amidst stunning Alpine scenery.

A brief summary to Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp

  • Saturday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for the best chance to witness the cheesemaking process in action.
  • Sample the Schwägalp cheese and other local specialties like raclette and Mutschli.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Säntis peak via the Säntis aerial cableway for panoramic views.
  • Check the opening hours of the shop, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Bring a cooler bag if you plan to purchase cheese to take home.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Zurich, take a train to Gossau SG, then transfer to another train to Urnäsch. From Urnäsch, Bahnhof, take bus number 791 to Schwägalp, Säntis-Schwebebahn. The bus stop is a short, 5-minute walk to the Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp. Bus fare from Urnäsch to Schwägalp is approximately CHF 3-5.

  • Driving

    From Zurich, drive towards Schwägalp via the A1 and A25 highways. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes. Upon arrival at Schwägalp, follow signs for the Säntisbahn valley station. The Alpschaukäserei is located near the valley station. Parking is available at the Säntisbahn valley station. The first hour of parking is free. After the free hour, parking costs CHF 3 for 3 hours, CHF 5 for 8 hours, or CHF 8 for a day.

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Discover more about Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp

The Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp, located at the base of the Säntis mountain range in the village of Urnäsch, is a captivating destination for cheese lovers and those seeking an authentic Swiss experience. Situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters near the Säntisbahn valley station, this cheese dairy provides a unique glimpse into the traditional methods of Alpine cheesemaking. Founded in 1996 by local farmers who graze their cattle on the surrounding Alpine pastures during the summer, the Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp is a cooperative enterprise that prides itself on crafting cheese with passion and meticulous attention to detail. From May to September, approximately 55 farmers deliver fresh Alpine milk to the dairy daily. This milk is then transformed into the renowned Schwägalp cheese and other specialties, including raclette, Mutschli, butter, and goat cheese, using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Visitors to the Alpschaukäserei Schwägalp can witness the cheesemaking process firsthand through a large glass front that provides an unobstructed view of the production area. Depending on the time of day, you might observe the cheesemaking, pressing, or care of the cheese wheels. Knowledgeable guides are also available to share insights into the cheesemaking process, highlighting the importance of local ingredients and sustainable practices. The shop offers a delightful range of cheeses, from robust mountain cheeses to creamy varieties. In addition to cheese, the shop also sells other local products, including yogurt and whey drinks. The Schwägalp cheese is known for its balanced aroma and unmistakable character, reflecting the pristine nature and healthy herbs found around the Säntis massif. The cheese is made in copper vats. During the cheese-making process, the milk is mixed with rennet and lactic acid bacteria cultures. Once the milk has coagulated, the mass is cut with a cheese harp to separate the whey from the curds. The mixture is stirred and reheated before the fresh cheese is pumped into molds. After about a day, the cheese is placed in a salt bath to develop its aroma.

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