Background

Aescher - Guesthouse on the Mountain

Experience the breathtaking views and unique charm of Berggasthaus Aescher, a historic Swiss guesthouse built into a cliffside in the Alpstein mountains.

4.7

Berggasthaus Aescher, a historic guesthouse and restaurant, is nestled into a cliffside in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. Known for its stunning views and unique construction, it has been a popular destination for hikers and tourists since the mid-19th century.

A brief summary to Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for the steep and sometimes slippery path from the Ebenalp cable car station to the guesthouse.
  • Bring cash, as card payments may not always be available.
  • Visit during the week to avoid the larger crowds that gather on weekends.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the path can be dangerous in wet or icy conditions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Wasserauen train station, walk a short distance to the Ebenalp cable car station. Take the cable car to the top of Ebenalp. From the Ebenalp cable car station, follow the marked path downhill towards Wildkirchli and Aescher. The walk is approximately 15-25 minutes and can be steep and slippery. A round trip cable car ticket costs CHF 34 for adults and CHF 14 for children (6-15 years old).

  • Walking

    For a more challenging approach, hike from Wasserauen to Aescher via Seealpsee. The hike takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. Follow the signs to Seealpsee and then continue towards Aescher. Be prepared for a steep ascent.

Unlock the Best of Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Berggasthaus Aescher, also known as Aescher Guesthouse on the Mountain, is a captivating destination in the Alpstein mountains of Switzerland. This iconic guesthouse and restaurant is built directly into a cliff face, with the rock serving as its back wall. The guesthouse has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century when it served as a haven for farmers and hikers. Before that, in 1658, Priest Ulmann lived as the first hermit in the Wildkirchli hermitage. The Wildkirchli caves, located nearby, have evidence of Neanderthal habitation dating back 40,000 years. Today, Aescher is renowned for its breathtaking views and unique construction. The restaurant serves local cuisine and culinary inventions, emphasizing regional specialties and traditions. Visitors can explore the Wildkirchli caves, which feature remnants of a former chapel and hermitage, as well as a display of fossils, including cave bear bones. To reach Aescher, most travelers take a train to Wasserauen and then ride the Ebenalp cable car. From the Ebenalp station, it's a 15 to 25-minute walk down a steep path through the Wildkirchli caves to the guesthouse.

Popular Experiences near Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Popular Hotels near Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain

Select Currency