Nestled in northeastern Switzerland, the small town of Appenzell is super charming with its traditional Swiss architecture, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning alpine landscapes.

📝Best things to do in Appenzell:

🥾Hike Ebenalp & Visit the Äscher Cliff Restaurant:

Ebenalp is a popular hiking and sightseeing destination, easily accessible by cable car. The hike to Äscher Cliff Restaurant is a favourite, famous for its dramatic cliffside location, with beautiful views over the Alpstein mountains. I can confirm their apple pie is phenomenal🤤 Along the way, you’ll pass Wildkirchli caves, which hold prehistoric artifacts and small chapels.

🧀Sample Appenzeller Cheese

Known for its distinctive herbal taste, Appenzeller cheese is a regional specialty. A cool experience is visiting the Appenzeller Show Dairy, where you can watch the cheese-making process and sample different varieties of cheese. Tastings and interactive experiences make it so fun!

👟Stroll Through Appenzell’s Old Town

The colourful and intricately decorated facades of Appenzell’s buildings make the old town a delight to explore. The pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with artisan shops, bakeries, and boutiques that sell traditional goods like hand-painted cowbells, textiles, and wood carvings. Bazar Hersche and other local boutiques offer unique souvenirs that showcase local craftsmanship.

Unique Shops and Boutiques:

🧀Appenzeller Käse GmbH (Cheese Shop)
Appenzell is famous for its unique cheese, so a visit to an Appenzeller cheese shop is a must. At Appenzeller Käse GmbH, you’ll find a range of aged cheeses, known for their spicy flavors. The staff are super helpful and can guide you through the tasting process.

🐮Bazar Hersche
This family-owned shop is ideal for visitors looking for traditional handicrafts. From hand-embroidered textiles to intricate wooden carvings, Bazar Hersche offers a range of unique, locally made products that celebrate Appenzell’s heritage. Look out for hand-painted cowbells!

🥃Appenzeller Alpenbitter Distillery
For those looking to bring home a taste of Appenzell, a stop at the Appenzeller Alpenbitter Distillery is a must. This family-run business produces a unique herbal liqueur made from a secret blend of 42 herbs. The distillery shop also offers tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the rich history of the iconic Alpenbitter.

Where to Eat in Appenzell:

🫕Gasthaus Hof
Situated in the heart of Appenzell, Gasthaus Hof is known for its traditional Swiss dishes and cosy atmosphere. Try their signature Rösti, a crispy Swiss potato dish, or indulge in locally made sausages. Their fondue options, made from Appenzeller cheese, are a must for anyone seeking an authentic Swiss dining experience.

🍷Hotel-Restaurant Santis
Located near the town square, Hotel-Restaurant Santis offers an elegant dining experience with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant combines traditional Swiss recipes with contemporary twists, and their specialty is Appenzeller specialties paired with local wines.

🥮Café-Confiserie Laimbacher
For a sweet treat, Café-Confiserie Laimbacher is a wonderful spot. Known for their pastries, pralines, and Appenzell gingerbread, it’s an excellent place to unwind with a coffee while savoring locally made desserts.

🍲Alpenrose Inn
Just outside the main town, Alpenrose Inn offers both traditional Swiss meals and innovative modern dishes. It’s a great place for travelers looking for a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere with a scenic mountain view.

I hope you enjoy your time in Appenzell!