Schwägalp: Gateway to the Säntis Mountain

Discover Schwägalp: A Swiss mountain paradise with hiking, nature parks, and the gateway to the majestic Säntis peak.

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Schwägalp

Schwägalp is a picturesque Swiss mountain pass nestled between the cantons of St. Gallen and Appenzell Ausserrhoden, marking the start of the aerial cableway to the Säntis peak. This area offers diverse leisure activities throughout the year, from hiking and nature exploration in the summer to skiing and winter hiking in the colder months.

A brief summary to Schwägalp

Hundwil, 9107, CH

Local tips

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as trails can be uneven and muddy at times.
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk.

Getting There

Public Transport

Schwägalp is accessible by PostBus from Urnäsch in Appenzell and Nesslau-Neu St. Johann in Toggenburg. From either of these towns, take the PostBus directly to Schwägalp. A single fare from Urnäsch to Schwägalp costs approximately CHF 5-7. The bus ride offers scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Check the SBB website or app for the most up-to-date bus schedules.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Hundwil, and then follow signs for Schwägalp. The pass road to Schwägalp has a maximum grade of 12 percent. Parking is available at Schwägalp, but it can be limited during peak season. Parking costs approximately CHF 5-10 per day. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the cable car station and other attractions.
Cable Car

The Säntis cable car is the final step to reach the summit of Säntis. The cable car station is located in Schwägalp. A return ticket for adults costs CHF 54, while a single trip costs CHF 38. Children, students, and apprentices receive discounted fares. The cable car ride takes about 10 minutes, ascending over 1,200 meters.

Discover more about Schwägalp

Schwägalp, situated at 1,278 meters (4,193 feet), serves as a captivating transition between the Appenzell and Toggenburg regions in Switzerland. It's renowned as the home of the lower terminus for the aerial cableway ascending to the Säntis, the Alpstein Massif's highest peak at 2,502 meters (8,209 feet). This destination provides a rich blend of experiences, adapting beautifully to both summer and winter seasons. During warmer months, Schwägalp transforms into a hiker's paradise, with trails winding through the NaturErlebnispark Schwägalp/Säntis nature theme park. This park showcases the natural habitat of Alpine flora and fauna, highlighting the region's agricultural landscape and offering recreational areas. Visitors can explore theme trails focused on topics like man and the environment, forests, mountain agriculture, and geology. In winter, Schwägalp becomes a hub for snow activities. A family-friendly ski lift provides access to downhill runs, while horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoe trekking, and winter hiking trails cater to various preferences. The Laternliweg lantern trail offers a magical evening experience, illuminated by countless oil lamps from November to March. Schwägalp is also part of a marshland area recognized in the Federal Inventory of Landscapes of National Significance. A path invites visitors to delve into the heart of this moor, revealing rare plants and animals. The Berghotel Schwägalp, constructed in traditional Appenzell style, features a sunny terrace and sits near the Säntis aerial cableway's lower terminus. During summer, a demonstration dairy offers insights into the art of cheese-making. A ride on the Säntis cableway grants panoramic views of the rugged Säntis north face. From the Säntis peak, views stretch across Lake Constance, the Austrian region of Vorarlberg, and the Graubunden, Glarus, and Bernese Alps. On clear days, visibility extends to the French Vosges Mountains and the Black Forest, encompassing six countries. The Säntis peak also serves as a starting point for mountain hikes, including a 3.5-hour route to Wasserauen.