Best huts in Appenzell Innerrhoden are found within the picturesque Alpstein mountain range, offering refuges for hikers and nature enthusiasts. This Swiss canton provides a collection of mountain huts that serve as accommodation and offer sustenance. The region is characterized by its striking limestone towers, lakes, and alpine pastures, providing an authentic alpine experience.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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What was built here is simply brilliant.
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Ebenalpbahn Technical Specifications: Valley Station: 867 m above sea level Mountain Station: 1,590 m above sea level Elevation Difference: 723 meters Length of Track: 1,514 meters Speed: 6 m/s Ride Time: 6 minutes Capacity: 40 + 1 people Carrying Cable Diameter: 42 mm Train Cable Diameter: 26 mm
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Our mountain guesthouse has seen many a proud face after the steep climb. The guesthouse, in its current form, has existed since 1860, making it one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. Pastor Ulmann was the first hermit to live in the hermitage in the Wildkirchli in 1658. More than 20 men followed his example until 1853, shaping the history of the Wildkirchli as hermits and first hosts. Since then, this mystical place has fascinated generations. Stories are told of little wild people who are said to have once lived in the Wildkirchli caves and come to the aid of the herdsmen. The Aescher inspires poets and artists to create new works. Bones of cave bears and stone tools bear witness to the cave as an ancient shelter. Source: https://aescher.ch/
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A great cave, with very interesting information. The hiking trail leads directly through the cave.
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Plattenbödeli mountain inn since 1911 at 1284 m above sea level. Unique landscape in the Alpstein. 1911 - Innkeeper Jos. Anton Dörig "Mattle" (great-grandfather of Platte Hans and grandfather of Meglisalp Mile) bought a piece of land at the exit of the Brüeltobel and built a small guesthouse, which he soon handed over to his daughter Franziska Inauen-Dörig. 1917 - Handed over to daughter Franziska Fritsche-Inauen. 1930 - Alfred Fritsche built the current inn. 1934 - Electric light was used for the first time on the Plattenbödeli, powered by a single-cylinder diesel engine and an Örlikon battery. 1958 - Son Hans and Alice Fritsche-Holderegger bought the business. To remedy the water shortage, a 1000m long pipe was laid from the Alp Rainhütte through the lake. The spring is 60m higher than the Plattenbödeli and thus the water flows into the reservoir with counter pressure. The diesel system was enlarged and a dishwasher and a washing machine were installed. 1964 - The mule track through the Brüeltobel is expanded as a road. 1971 - The kitchen is added, the toilet facilities are converted and the restaurant with a self-service buffet is renovated. The main entrance is moved to the sunny side and the terrace is extended. A separate sewage treatment plant is built and the diesel system is renewed. 2022 - Alois and Manuela Inauen Sager purchase the mountain inn. Text / Source: Berggasthaus Plattenbödeli, Manuela and Alois Inauen, Plattenbödeli 1, Brülisau https://www.plattenboedeli.ch/
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The Schäfler mountain inn boasts of its special panoramic view. And rightly so, if the weather conditions are right. Then you can admire Lake Constance, Säntis, Altmann and all the southern mountain ranges. The drinks and food are also recommended: e.g. Rösti in its various variations :-) You can reach the mountain inn on foot in about 4 hours from Wasserauen, or for those in a hurry from the mountain station of the Ebenalpbahn in about 1 hour. There are also a large number of overnight accommodation options. For couples, I find the 2-person cabin rooms very cute and also acoustically relaxing. In summer, the Säntis summit can be reached from the mountain inn in about 4 hours. But many other destinations are also easy to reach from there.
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The Meglisalp is an alpine settlement in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. It lies at 1517 m above sea level in a flat hollow in the Alpstein region east of the Säntis. In the local dialect it is called [megli'salp]. The alp was already documented in the Middle Ages (1071 Megelinsalpa, ca. 1280 Megilins alpe).[1] The Meglisalp is a popular excursion destination in summer and can be reached from Wasserauen via the Seealpsee, among other places. In addition to the Meglisalp mountain inn, the settlement also has a chapel. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meglisalp
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The huts in Appenzell Innerrhoden are renowned for their picturesque settings within the Alpstein mountain range, offering an authentic Swiss alpine experience. Many are carved directly into rock faces, like the iconic Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, or nestled by stunning alpine lakes. They provide not just accommodation and sustenance, but also unparalleled views and serve as key stops on popular hut-to-hut hiking routes.
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting the Schäfler Mountain Inn, which boasts vistas of Lake Constance, Säntis, and surrounding mountain ranges. Another excellent choice is the Staubern Mountain Inn, perched on the eastern ridge of the Alpstein, offering an overwhelming view overlooking four countries.
Yes, several huts are suitable for families. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is accessible via a cable car and a short hike, and nearby attractions include the Wildkirchli Chapel and prehistoric caves, which can be fascinating for children. The Ruhesitz Mountain Inn is also family-run and serves as an ideal starting point for various outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
The region is rich in natural beauty. Many huts are situated near stunning alpine lakes, such as the Bollenwees Mountain Inn at Fälensee and the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn at Lake Sämtiser. You'll also encounter striking limestone towers, alpine pastures, and dramatic rock formations, especially around the Alpstein massif.
Absolutely. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is famously located near the Wildkirchli Chapel and prehistoric caves that once sheltered Neanderthals and hermits, offering a deep dive into history. The region as a whole is known for its distinct cultural charm and traditional hospitality, with many inns having a long history, like the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn operating since 1911.
The huts serve as excellent bases for a variety of outdoor activities. You can embark on numerous hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. The region is also popular for mountain hikes and bike tours. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking in Appenzell Innerrhoden or Mountain Hikes in Appenzell Innerrhoden guides.
The best time to visit the mountain huts in Appenzell Innerrhoden is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable for hiking. This period allows you to fully enjoy the alpine pastures, lakes, and panoramic views.
Access varies by hut. Many are accessible via cable car followed by a short hike, such as the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn from Wasserauen. Public transport, including trains and buses, often connects to the starting points of popular trails or cable car stations, making many huts reachable without a private car. Always check specific access details for your chosen hut.
Yes, many huts in Appenzell Innerrhoden offer overnight accommodation, ranging from simple dormitories to private rooms. They are often part of multi-day hut-to-hut hiking experiences in the Alpstein massif. Huts like Meglisalp Mountain Inn and Schäfler Mountain Inn are known for their hospitality and provide a comfortable place to rest after a day of hiking.
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty, the unique geological settings, and the authentic alpine experience. The panoramic views, especially from places like Schäfler Mountain Inn, are a major draw. The hospitality, traditional food, and the opportunity to disconnect and immerse oneself in nature are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Yes, all mountain huts in Appenzell Innerrhoden serve food and drinks, often featuring regional specialties. They provide a welcome stop for hikers to refuel and relax. For example, Meglisalp Mountain Inn is known for its good food and even its own whiskey, while Staubern Mountain Inn emphasizes seasonal offerings and regional cuisine.


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