Explore Autumn at Hoher Kasten, Top of Appenzell

Appenzellerland: The land of secluded valleys, hidden lakes and Hoher Kasten

Welcome to Appenzellerland, a hidden gem in Switzerland where tranquility, natural beauty, and Swiss culture abound. If crowded tourist spots aren't your thing, you'll love Hoher Kasten. Discover secluded valleys, hidden lakes, and indulge in the best beer Switzerland has to offer.

Gorgeous views of Alpstein and the Rhine valley with Hoher Kasten peak and restaurant on the left © Hoher Kasten/ Mathieu Nebel

From the short and impressive Europa Circular Trail to the challenging Geological Trail, there are plenty of paths to stroll along. All paths are well-marked and sign-posted, making it almost impossible to get lost. Make sure you come well prepared: bring a pair of solid hiking boots, as you will often encounter steep, narrow and partly exposed terrain. 

The descent can take around an hour and a half, which is great no matter what fitness level you have. Plus, you can even cheat a little and use a trottibike.

A Golden Autumn on Hoher Kasten

Spectacular autumn colors display around Hoher Kasten © Hoher Kasten/Dominik Lanter

Hoher Kasten's 360 degrees unlimited panoramic, unspoiled nature, culinary delicacies and hiking opportunities are even richer during autumn.

Starting point to a hiker’s paradise

Breathtaking views of Alpstein and the Rhine valley in autumn © Hoher Kasten/Martin Herrsche

With more than 400 kilometres of hiking trails, the Alpstein region has the richest network of hiking trails in Switzerland. The Hoher Kasten is an ideal starting point for hikes, be it high-difficulty trails or family-appropriate ones.

Cable car ride with a blaze of colour 

The cable car up to the top station © Hoher Kasten/Thomas Lutz

The journey to the top station of the Hoher Kasten cable car is in autumn an experience itself. Plus, it takes just eight minutes to reach the summit at 1794 metres above sea level.

On the way, you can see nature slowly changing from green hilly landscape with typical Appenzell houses to colourful forests and slightly snow-covered mountain peaks.

💡 Our tip: Special offers at the Hoher Kasten Revolving Restaurant

After enjoying one of the best views in the country on Hoher Kasten, you can take a scenic hike back down. But before that, why not treat yourself to some delightful local cuisine at the only revolving restaurant in eastern Switzerland?

Indulge in a breakfast buffet or choose from the à la carte menu, featuring seasonal and regional dishes. Don't miss their sliced venison with cranberry cream sauce, paired with buttered 'spaetzli' and fresh seasonal vegetables. Experience the taste of autumn in every bite.

Breakfast buffet at the Hoher Kasten revolving restaurant © Hoher Kasten/ Andreas Butz

 

RESTAURANT DEALS: Every day until 10:30 a.m. and from 02:30 p.m, you can get combined offers for Breakfast or Snack Platter included with your cable car ride at the lower terminus ticket office. Children up to 15 years of age can ride the cableway for free.

Check the fares and reserve your table ​​​​​​​here.

Below the revolving restaurant is the Panorama Restaurant and Café, which offers a more simplified buffet-style menu. If you do potter in that direction for a coffee, don’t miss their Apfelecken, which is delightful, but more so the Mandelstange which is exceptional, and all reasonably priced. 

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Stay longer, discover more

In Appenzell, there are various accommodation options at different prices. If you stay for three nights or more with the same provider, you can ask for an Appenzell Holiday Card.

This card offers over 20 benefits, including one free cableway trips to Hoher Kasten, museum tickets, additional cable car rides, a 15-zone travel ticket, free pool admission, and more. It's the best add-on deal in Switzerland. 

If you can't stay longer to enjoy all of these, come back for more adventures during summer, winter or spring.

Wherever you go within this beautiful region, you will be surrounded by intriguing history, stunning scenery, idyllic buildings and the best local culture and food that the country has to offer. 

Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a romantic getaway, or embarking on a family adventure, our destination will exceed all your expectations.