Äscher: A Cliffside Guesthouse in the Swiss Alps
Experience Swiss hospitality at this iconic guesthouse built into a cliff, offering stunning views and a glimpse into history.
Berggasthaus Äscher-Wildkirchli, or simply Äscher, is a guesthouse built into a cave on the side of the Ebenalp mountain in the Alpstein range. With a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, the guesthouse has been a haven for hikers and travelers seeking refuge in the Swiss Alps. The guesthouse in its current form has existed since 1860 and is one of the oldest mountain guesthouses in Switzerland. Originally a hermitage and chapel in the 17th century, the site evolved into a guesthouse in the mid-1800s, offering lodging and food to farmers and hikers. The Wildkirchli caves, adjacent to the guesthouse, have a rich history, with evidence of Neanderthal habitation and ancient cave bear remains. Today, visitors can explore these caves and learn about the area's natural and human history. Äscher's fame skyrocketed after appearing on the cover of National Geographic's 'Destinations of a Lifetime'. The guesthouse offers a restaurant with a terrace providing panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. For those seeking a more immersive experience, overnight stays are available in a variety of rooms, including a unique Hermit Lodge. Keep in mind that the guesthouse is not heated, and water is a precious resource, so come prepared for a rustic experience.
Local tips
- Bring warm layers, even in summer, as the guesthouse is located at a high altitude and is not heated.
- Be prepared for a rustic experience, as the guesthouse uses rainwater and does not have showers.
- Check the Ebenalp cable car schedule in advance, as operating hours vary depending on the season.
- Consider hiking from Wasserauen to Seealpsee and then to Äscher for a more challenging and scenic route.
- Book your overnight stay in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred room.
A brief summary to Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain
- Äscher 1, Schwende, 9057, CH
- +41717991142
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Wasserauen, take the train to the Wasserauen-Ebenalp cable car station. The cable car ascends to Ebenalp in about 6 minutes. From the Ebenalp mountain station, follow the trail signs towards Wildkirchli and Äscher. The hike down to the guesthouse takes approximately 15-25 minutes. Cable car tickets cost CHF 36 for adults and CHF 15 for children (ages 6-15) for a round trip. A one-way ticket costs CHF 24 for adults and CHF 10 for children. If you have a SBB Half Fare Travelcard/GA, a round trip ticket costs CHF 18. Note: The cable car operating hours vary depending on the season. Check the schedule in advance.
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Walking
For a more challenging approach, hike from Wasserauen to Äscher via Seealpsee. The trail is steep in sections and requires appropriate footwear. From Wasserauen, follow the signs to Seealpsee, which takes approximately 2 hours. From Seealpsee, continue towards Äscher, which adds another 1-1.5 hours of hiking. Note: This route is recommended for experienced hikers with good physical fitness. The trail between Seealpsee and Äscher can be narrow and steep. There are no costs associated with hiking, however, consider that you may want to purchase food or drinks at Seealpsee or Äscher.
Attractions Nearby to Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain
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Wildkirchli
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Berggasthaus Ebenalp
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Talstation Luftseilbahn Wasserauen-Ebenalp AG
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Wasserauen Wasser walk
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Skilift Brülisau-Leugangen
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Plattenbödeli
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Hoher Kasten Drehrestaurant Und Seilbahn
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Kirche St. Sebastian Brülisau
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Hoher Kasten
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Furgglenhöhle
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Beautiful Appenzell
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Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte
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Kunstmuseum in Appenzell
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Haus Salesis
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Kloster Appenzell
Landmarks nearby to Aescher - Guesthouse on the mountain
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Appenzell 2024
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Bärenbrunnen
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Romantik Hotel Säntis
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Appenzeller Huus - Huus Bären
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Hoher Hirschberg
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Dreiländereck AT/CH/FL
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Casino Admiral Ruggell
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Kokon
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Landgasthof Rössle
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TANG
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Gampriner Seele
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Freizeitanlage Grossabünt
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Gamprin, Grossabünt
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Ruggeller Ried
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Grand Tour of Switzerland - Photo Spot the seven Churfirsten