Highlights Of Our Appenzell Day Trip
Scenic drive through Lake Zurich, Toggenburg, and rolling alpine farmland
Private behind-the-scenes visit to an Appenzeller cheese dairy
Guided walking tour of Appenzell village, including local shops and the painted town hall
Gentle private hike through the Alpstein foothills with panoramic views
Optional cable car ascent to Hoher Kasten or serene Seealpsee valley walk
Flexible return journey with photo stops or artisan detours en route to Zurich
Your Appenzell Day Trip Itinerary
Your private driver-guide greets you at your hotel for a picturesque journey eastward and along the shores of Lake Zurich into Switzerland’s heartland, as you follow the shores of Lake Zurich, cross the Toggenburg region, and enter Appenzellerland.
Rolling green hills and tidy farmhouses give way to breathtaking views of the Alpstein peaks, a landscape that feels instantly welcoming, yet steeped in mystery.
Appenzeller Cheese Dairy – The Art of Alpine Flavor
Your first stop brings you to a working alpine cheese dairy, where the famous Appenzeller cheese is crafted using methods honed over generations.
On this private visit, you’ll go behind the scenes to learn how a secret herbal brine gives Appenzeller its bold flavor, and how alpine pastures shape every wheel.
Explore the aging cellar, witness live demonstrations, and meet the craftspeople who carry on this essential Swiss tradition. Of course, a tasting is included, with opportunities to try young, aged, and spiced varieties, and perhaps pick up a wedge to take home.
Appenzell Village Walk – Painted Houses & Proud Traditions
Next, you’ll explore the fairy-tale village of Appenzell, where your guide leads a tailored walk through its colorful old town.
Stroll beneath ornately painted timber façades, admire the Baroque town hall, and learn how this region has maintained its centuries-old tradition of direct democracy at the open-air Landsgemeindeplatz.
Along the way, your guide weaves together tales of folk religion, embroidery guilds, and alpine independence.
Guided Hike – Into the Alpstein Foothills
Leaving the village behind, trade cobbles for meadows with a private guided hike into the Alpstein foothills.
The terrain is flexible, your guide will select a trail based on your pace and interests, whether you’re drawn to expansive panoramic views, curious about local geology, or simply want to soak in the landscape with your camera in hand.
Along the way you will come across grazing cows, wooden alpine huts, and maybe even the soft sound of an alphorn echoing from a far-off ridge.
Panoramic Views of Hoher Kasten
For the final chapter of your Appenzell journey we ascend Hoher Kasten via cable car.
Hoher Kasten Cable Car Ascent
Ride up to a revolving panoramic restaurant with views across six countries. Your guide will accompany you along the GeoTrail, offering a high-altitude perspective and peaceful ridgeline paths.
Return to Zurich
Settle back into the comfort of your private vehicle as your guide returns you to Zurich.
If time allows, you can request a final detour — perhaps a charming chocolate shop, a scenic ridge viewpoint, or a stop at a rural studio to see Swiss embroidery or woodworking in action.
Optional Extras On Our Appenzell Day Trip
Add a second dairy or alpine herb garden stop for a deeper dive into local flavor
Farm lunch or picnic with mountain cheese, local bread, and herbal tea
Private painting session with an Appenzeller folk artist
Seasonal festival or herdsmen parade add-on (on select dates)
